What makes Best by Robert Earl Keen notable?

Best received critical acclaim and solidified Keen's reputation as a master storyteller within the Americana genre. The album includes beloved tracks that have become staples in his live performances, reflecting his influence on contemporary country and folk artists. In 2006, Robert Earl Keen was celebrating two decades in the music industry, having already established himself as a prominent figure in Texas country music. This album, released on November 7, 2006, is a compilation of his best works up to that point, showcasing his evolution as a songwriter and performer while appealing to both long-time fans and new listeners.

Best works well if you're into heartfelt storytelling with depth, dynamic journey with peaks and for reflective afternoons.

How many songs are on Best?

Best has 18 tracks, running approximately 75 minutes.

Released 20 years ago

Best

Robert Earl Keen · 2006

75 min · 18 tracks · country music

A heartfelt collection of storytelling ballads layered with Keen's signature wit and a blend of country and folk influences.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Merry Christmas From the Family — This track captures Keen's ability to blend humor with poignant family dynamics, making it a holiday classic that resonates with many listeners.
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The Road Goes on Forever — A narrative-driven anthem that exemplifies Keen's storytelling prowess, detailing themes of life’s journeys and choices that resonate deeply with audiences.
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Gringo Honeymoon — This song showcases Keen's unique blend of romantic imagery and wry observations about love, making it a standout representation of his songwriting style.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

heartfelt storytelling with depth
dynamic journey with peaks
for reflective afternoons
sing-along moments with friends

Maybe skip if you

prefer instant gratification tracks
dislike narrative-driven experiences

Where this album fits

Career context: In 2006, Robert Earl Keen was celebrating two decades in the music industry, having already established himself as a prominent figure in Texas country music. This album, released on November 7, 2006, is a compilation of his best works up to that point, showcasing his evolution as a songwriter and performer while appealing to both long-time fans and new listeners.
Stylistic neighbors: Lyle Lovett· Guy Clark· Steve Earle

New to Robert Earl Keen? Find your way in →

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 No Kinda Dancer 3:07
2 Willie 2:36
3 The Armadillo Jackal 3:26
4 Paint the Town Beige 4:34
5 Whenever Kindness Fails 3:37
6 Corpus Christi Bay 3:59
7 Merry Christmas From the Family 3:54
8 The Road (intro) 5:08
9 The Road Goes on Forever 7:45
10 Furnance Fan 3:58
11 All I Have Is Today 3:28
12 Let the Music Play 5:36
13 For Love 4:23
14 Mr. Wolf and Mamabear 3:46
15 Ride 3:44
16 Feeling Good Again 3:14
17 Gringo Honeymoon 4:53
18 I'm Comin' Home 4:17

What to play next

Listen next

Marfa After Dark

2008

Go back to

Live at the Ryman: The Greatest Show Ever Been Gave

2006

Full Robert Earl Keen discography Where to start with Robert Earl Keen Artists like Robert Earl Keen

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata