marcus austin

Sixty years ago today, "These Boots Are Made for Walkin'" became my very first #1 record. After six years of hard work and hits around the world, everywhere except the United States, I suddenly became an “overnight success.” Funny how that works. When “Boots” hit the charts, it took off like a rocket and it has never really come back down. Over the years, it’s taken on a life of its own. I don’t think it’s immodest for me to say it’s iconic. Is there anyone who doesn’t know "Boots"? Is there anyone who doesn't recognize Chuck Berghofer's equally iconic bassline? The song has meant different things to different people. It became an anthem for some of our brave soldiers during the Viet Nam War, and it also found a place in the women’s liberation movement. Even now, I’m tagged almost daily in videos, little ones dancing in their boots, new artists recording their own versions. That never gets old. I’ll always be grateful that Jimmy Bowen had the vision to pair me with Lee Hazlewood. That partnership changed my life. “Boots” was a gift, and I’ve never taken it for granted. I’m happy when young people discover me through that song, but it's thrilling when theyhang around and dig deeper to explore the many other wonderful recordings I’ve made through the years. I'll just say this: Nancy Sinatra is not a one-hit wonder. A heartfelt thank you to Light in the Attic Records for making my records available to a whole new generation of listeners. The music was not created to sit in a vault. It is meant to be shared and heard.  Thank you to my team, past and present. You are the best. I don't know where I would be without you. To my friends who’ve shared any part of this 60-year journey with me, thank you for sticking with me through thick and thin. God knows there has been a lot of thin.  And if you’ve been with me since the “Bubblegum Years”, before all of this, well… at this point, I’m just going to assume you’re a glutton for punishment! 🤪 I love you all. xo 👢✨