Released: July 1973
Chart Peak: #29
Weeks Charted: 40

Track Listing:

1. TAKE THE HIGHWAY            5. SEE YOU LATER, I'M GONE
2. CAN'T YOU SEE                       6. RAMBLIN'
3. LOSING YOU                            7. MY JESUS TOLD ME SO
4. HILLBILLY BAND                   8. AB's SONG

After working together in various incarnations, most notably the Rants, New Generation and the Toy Factory, Doug, Jerry, Toy, Tommy, George, and Paul joined forces in 1970, deciding to "make it or break it" playing their own, original music. With an infusion of country, rock, jazz, blues and swing, they created a brand of music all their own, and thus was born the most unique southern rock band in music history.

Lacking a name or a record contract they set out on their own. When they found a key from their rehearsal hall with the inscription Marshall Tucker, their first problem was solved. Opening for Wet Willie in early 1971, the headliners were so impressed they touted the Tucker boys to Phil Walden, owner of Capricorn Records, who heard the band's demo tape and soon solved the groups second problem.

Signed to Capricorn, their self-titled debut album was released in 1973 and was the first of six albums produced by Paul Hornsby and recorded at the label's studios in Macon, Georgia.

Beginning with the first grooves of "Take the Highway" on the LP's first cut, it was evident that this was no ordinary hillbilly band.  With Toy's infectious guitar riffs, Jerry's flute, and Doug's soulful vocals, the music was unlike any heard before.  The song's lyrics, of a man longing to hit the open road, urges his love interest not to "wait for me too long."

If Take the Highway piqued the listenerís interest then Can't You See reels them in hook, line and sinker.  Subtly opening with an acoustic guitar that is soon followed by Jerry's classic flute intro, Toy begins singing the lyrics matter of factly.  The song then builds momentum and Toy seems to deliver the verses as if they were erupting from somewhere deep down in his soul.  Thundering to a climax the song then gently rolls to close.  An anthem for the ages, this song is both legendary and classic.  

The band displays its countryside on "Losing You," replete with pedal steel guitar and mournful lyrics. What might seem to be the perfect backdrop for any broken hearted lover crying in beer, it's also a liberating blues number that signifies a brand new start.  "Hillbilly Band," the first original song penned and performed by the band, is an intense country jam that utilizes all the bands talents: Toy's lead and steel guitars, Jerry's flute, fiddle, superb bottom provided by Tommy and Paul, and groovin' rhythm guitar by George.  "See You Later, I'm Gone," is another steel guitar country tune, about a man's send off to his cheating lover.

"Ramblin'" has been a fan favorite, on record and at concerts for years.  With its relentless and driving spirit, this could be the most powerful singing Doug has ever performed on record.  Heightened by a horn section and Toy's legendary licks, this was one of Tommy's all-time favorite songs to perform on stage.

The band's gospel side is displayed on "My Jesus Told Me So."  A song as peaceful and soothing as the river in its verse, it slowly meanders to its final destination, the sea.  Symbolism provides the backdrop for a man who questions his direction in life, and in the end realizes that his faith is the key.

The album closes out with the poignant and touching "Ab's Song."  A particularly touching tune after Toy's passing, it is an ode to the wife he loved so dearly. Rest in peace my friend; your music has touched us all.

The Marshall Tucker Band climbed to #29 on the Billboard charts and went on to reach platinum status, over 1 million sold.  "Can't You See," the band's first single, and the album, Marshall Tucker's first, established the band as an innovative force in the music industry and endeared them to legions of fans throughout the world.  Today that innovation and popularity has yet to wane. 

In November of 2003, "The Marshall Tucker Band" was remastered.  The result is unbelievable - the CD sounds like it was recorded yesterday and you were there in the studio to hear it!  A live bonus track, Everyday I Have the Blues, was added. It absolutely jumps out of the speakers.  

                                                                                        - Craig Cumberland