Marty Stuart Said He Would Marry His Wife In Fifth Grade: “I Told My Mom I Was Going To Marry Connie Smith Someday” | Whiskey Riff

In a rare and intimate conversation, Marty Stuart and Connie Smith, one of country music’s most beloved couples, opened up about their decades-long love story — and what they shared brought many fans to tears.

Together, they’ve graced stages across the country, blending their voices and spirits into a sound that feels both timeless and deeply personal. But behind the harmony lies a journey of friendship, faith, and love that has weathered life’s seasons with quiet strength.

“We’re more than just music partners,” Marty said, gently taking Connie’s hand during the interview. “We’re soulmates. And it took us both a while to find the right time for each other — but we did.”

Their story began decades ago, when a teenage Marty first saw Connie perform on stage. At that moment, he told his mother he would marry her one day — a bold dream that would take nearly 25 years to come true.

“I thought he was sweet and talented,” Connie said with a smile. “But I had no idea he’d actually follow through!”

Over the years, their paths crossed again and again — as fellow artists, collaborators, and kindred spirits. But it wasn’t until the mid-1990s that they truly found one another. They married in 1997, and since then, they’ve shared not only a life but a calling: to honor traditional country music and live with grace.

“Our marriage isn’t about glitter or grand gestures,” Connie explained. “It’s about steady love. It’s about believing in each other — every day.”

Fans have long admired their devotion, not just to music, but to each other. Whether performing side by side or simply sitting on a porch strumming guitars, Marty and Connie carry the kind of connection that doesn’t need to be spoken to be understood.

They spoke openly about the quiet moments that define their relationship — morning coffee, reading Scripture together, cooking meals from scratch. These are the rhythms of a life well-loved.

“We’ve had our share of challenges,” Marty admitted. “But love, real love, is about standing beside someone not just when the spotlight’s on, but when the room is quiet.”

As they approach nearly three decades of marriage, the couple says they’re enjoying this chapter of slower living — spending time with grandchildren, preserving musical heritage, and simply being present.

“I love him more now than I did when we first got married,” Connie said, her eyes filled with tears. “Because I’ve seen his heart, and it’s the real deal.”

For fans, it’s the kind of love story that doesn’t scream for attention — it sings softly, honestly, and beautifully.

Video