What makes Live at Gilley's! by Jimmy Sturr notable?

'Live at Gilley's!' is significant for its role in promoting polka music to a broader audience, showcasing Sturr's dynamic stage presence and musicianship. The album received critical acclaim, contributing to Sturr's legacy as a prominent ambassador of the genre and helping revive interest in traditional polka during the early '90s. At the time of releasing 'Live at Gilley's!' in 1991, Jimmy Sturr was already an established figure in the polka music scene, having won multiple Grammy Awards. This album came shortly after his breakthrough with 'I Was Born to Polka,' further solidifying his reputation as a leading performer in American polka music.

Who is Live at Gilley's! for?

Live at Gilley's! works well if you're into joyful audience interaction moments, lively dance floor energy and short bursts of infectious fun.

How many songs are on Live at Gilley's!?

Live at Gilley's! has 15 tracks, running approximately 48 minutes.

Live at Gilley's!

Jimmy Sturr · 1991

48 min · 15 tracks

A vibrant, energetic collection of polkas and waltzes that captures the essence of live folk music in a lively setting.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Play Me Some Polka Music — This track encapsulates the joy and infectious energy of polka music, inviting listeners to join in the celebration. Its catchy melody makes it a quintessential representation of Sturr's style.
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Hey Pretty Girl — A heartfelt tune that showcases Sturr's ability to blend romance with traditional polka rhythms, this track emphasizes the emotional depth often found within the genre.
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Orange Blossom Special — Recognized as a classic instrumental piece, this version highlights Sturr's virtuosic accordion skills while capturing the lively spirit of the live performance.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

joyful audience interaction moments
lively dance floor energy
short bursts of infectious fun
celebratory tracks for gatherings

Maybe skip if you

prefer slow, introspective music
seek long, atmospheric pieces

Where this album fits

Career context: At the time of releasing 'Live at Gilley's!' in 1991, Jimmy Sturr was already an established figure in the polka music scene, having won multiple Grammy Awards. This album came shortly after his breakthrough with 'I Was Born to Polka,' further solidifying his reputation as a leading performer in American polka music.
Stylistic neighbors: The Chieftains· Brave Combo· The Klezmatics

New to Jimmy Sturr? Find your way in →

Tracklist

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

1 2001 Theme 1:05
2 Riverhead Polka 2:38
3 Play Me Some Polka Music 2:35
4 Fire on the Mountain Polka 2:50
5 Why Do I Have to Choose 4:09
6 String of Pearls 3:33
7 Hey Pretty Girl 3:31
8 Blue Skirt Waltz 4:19
9 Clarinet Polka 3:23
10 Orange Blossom Special 2:21
11 Before They Take Me Away 3:22
12 Bird Dance 2:37
13 Generals Polka 3:58
14 Ice Castles 3:46
15 Dixie Closing 4:46

What to play next

Listen next

When It's Polka Time at Your House

1991

Go back to

A Polka Just for Me

1987

Full Jimmy Sturr discography Where to start with Jimmy Sturr Artists like Jimmy Sturr

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