Putman, Jr. wrote hundreds of songs, but is known for three in particular.
First, there was the song that put him on the map - "Green, Green Grass of Home" which became a hit for Porter Wagoner in 1965, but has been covered by dozens of artists including Tom Jones, Elvis Presley, Kenny Rogers, Trini Lopez and The Flying Burrito Brothers.
The other two hits were co-written with Bobby Braddock. The first was "D-I-V-O-R-C-E" which became a hit for Tammy Wynette in 1968. A decade later, the team of Putman and Braddock penned "He Stopped Loving Her Today" which would re-launch George Jones back into the limelight. It is now considered the greatest country song of all time.
Yet despite all his country music credentials, Putman also plays a small role in Beatles lore. Well, at least with one Beatle. Following the success of Band on the Run, Paul McCartney & Wings spent six weeks on Putman's farm. The recording sessions resulted in "Junior's Farm" which became a hit single and the last McCartney would record for Apple Records before signing with Capitol.
Have a listen to all these songs below.
Interesting connection between Putman and "Junior's Farm," one of thew post-Beatle McCartney tunes I actually like.
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