MARY ANN KENNEDY: The Trail Less Traveled

Mary Ann Kennedy

The Trail Less Traveled

© 2002 Angel Pug Music (783707541624)

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A unique, acoustic, concept cd, songs from the heart about the animals we love. Killer acoustic production with some of the best players in Nashville. Mary Ann Kennedy is a Grammy nominated singer/songwriter.

notes

ANNOUNCEMENT: MARY ANN RELEASES 2 BRAND NEW SONGS
AVAILABLE Now on iTunes and CD Baby MP3 !!!!!
Inspired by her natural horsemanship journey, and Pat & Linda Parelli, Mary Ann recorded "MIRROR MIRROR" & "HEART IN YOUR HANDS", available for download now on iTunes and CD Baby MP3. These 2 new songs will be on her new CD, “The Rhythm Of The Ride”, which will be available for purchase in 2008. We will keep you posted on the exact release date!


Check out Mary Ann's newest CD release, too!
"Hoofbeats, Heartbeats & Wings" CD - also available on CD Baby!

There is only one way to experience Mary Ann Kennedy - The Trail Less Traveled. Just listen to it. There is no format for it. There is no category for it. There is no precedent for it.

There are very few people in this world whose lives have not been irrevocably changed by a relationship with an animal. This new work by Mary Ann captures those significant moments in every song. From her tranquil farm in Middle Tennessee, Mary Ann sees, breathes and feels the strength of nature, the communication between and among animals and converts both to lyrics, music and arrangements with amazing clarity. It captivates the listener.

Mary Ann has 20+ years of traditional success in the country and pop fields with cuts by Emmy Lou Harris, Sting, Art Garfunkel, Reba McEntire, Patty Loveless, Martina McBride, Faith Hill, Restless Heart, LeaAnn Rimes and Pam Tillis, among others. Her first grammy nomination was for her single, "Ring On Her Finger, Time On Her Hands," recorded by Lee Greenwood and Reba. Restless Heart's "I'll Still Be Loving You" earned a second grammy nomination for Mary Ann and co-writers Pam Rose and Pat Bunch.

"The songs on this new CD were inspired by the deaths of my two soul-mates: my dear 15-year-old pug, Choy, and my forever-friend, Tonka, the colt I raised and rode for 9 years. Both their souls flew away together in August, 2000," Mary Ann explained. "The healing process is an amazing thing."

This new project is innovative, hauntingly spiritual, sometimes hilarious and powerfully insightful. Every horse lover will smile at "I Wish I Had a Horse," about Mary Ann's childhood dream; every horse owner will relate all too closely to the universal truth of horse ownership, "Gotta Go Feed"; and no one can sit still to the syncopation of "Paso Fino." "Goodbye", a painfully emotional experience common to all animal owners, will stay with the listener long after the music ends - but, then, so will the silliness of the haughty "Barn Cat." Each cut on this CD evokes a new memory or emotion.

Just listen to it.


You can find out more about Mary Ann by going to:

www.maryannkennedy.com

reviews

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  • A Must Have
    author: Kirsten Rintelmann

    i may not be a full adult yet, but i do understand the powerful messages of these songs :] ever since my best friend introduced this cd to me in 6th grade, i loved it, but haven't been able to find it since then until now-- 5 years later. i would definantly recommend this cd to anyone who enjoys the simple things in life. this cd is truely beautiful.

  • Compelling, exciting, poignant--a must have for music lovers.
    author: Gay Balliet

    Mary Ann Kennedy's lyrics will strike a cord with animal-lovers everywhere. Her singing voice is compelling, honest, pure in tone, and it compliments the lyrics which sing appreciation of the natural world. Mary Ann Kennedy's two albums are destined to be frontrunners in the country/western musical world, if they are not already. I would recommend each of her albums to any music lover, not just country afficionados, who enjoys rural life, animals, horses, and the special relationship people enjoy with them. I've cried listening to her "Good-bye" song, and I've vowed to ride a Paso Fino and possibly purchase one--simply because her song, "Paso Fino" put me right into that Paso's saddle. And, in her second album the song, "Green on Green" struck a chord as well. Her songs are at once humorous, some sad, but all get at the reality of life lived with horses and animals. This is one of the finest albums I've ever listened to--can't wait for her next album.

  • The Trail Less Traveled
    author: Debra Saye

    I got exactly what I have come to expect from this artist...every song is oozing with creativity and rhythym. Her voice is so soulful. If you love animals and horses, you will love every song.

  • Trail less Travelled
    author: Susan Olson

    Love it. I sing, evertime I feed the horses. I also loved the other cuts, especially barn cat and I wished I had a horse, reminds me of my youth. Matter of fact all of the songs mean something to me.

  • Fun-filled Inspiration
    author: Lisa Cole

    I am totally enjoying this CD. The title song says it all and everytime I hear it I am inspired once again. Barn Cat is hilarious and Choy's Song proves "she isn't really gone!" Music I can really relate to! Perfect for anyone who has ever shared their love with an animal. Well done Mary Ann! Keep the music coming!!!

  • I loved it
    author: Mavis Hall

    I really loved not only the words but the music and I play it every day when driving in my car to the stables where I keep my horse.

  • What an awesome CD!
    author: Susan T.

    I bought this CD for the Blue Heeler song (funny and right on!) but fell in love with all the tracks on the first play. The lyrics are thoughtful and insightful and really touched the heart of this animal lover. This is great stuff!!

  • Funny, Sad, Thoughtful
    author: Debbie

    After purchasing my first Paso Fino, and being involved with 2 trailriding shows for RFD-TV (3 of the songs from this CD were used as back-up music), I decided I needed a copy of this CD. I love all the songs and think I will need some more copies for some of my trailriding friends. MaryAnn does a wonderful job at putting all those feelings for animals into words and music. Love it!

  • Wonderful for ALL animal lovers!
    author: Eileen Lankow

    I originally purchased "The Trail Less Traveled" because I'd heard the Blue Heeler song set to a video (I have two heelers) and thought it was so cool! My computer screwed up though, and I ordered two instead of one. I loved it so much when I got it, that I sent the second to a dear friend who does horse rescue, and then had to turn around and order two of "Hoofbeats, Heartbeats and Wings" as well - and we both play them all the time! I LOVE the songs on both CD's, and it was a bonus to see that part of the proceeds go to rescue. Thanks, Mary Ann, for sharing your heart for animals!

  • great, I raise blue heelers you captured them perfectly.
    author: Dominique

    This entire cd is wonderful I purchased it for the Blue Heeler song and discovered the rest of the cd is awsome. Thank you so much for capturing the blue heeler so well. you are an artist that I will continue to buy cd's from thank you.

  • Love "The Trail Less Traveled"!!!
    author: Sandra B

    What a wonderful and delightful CD. I had tears when I listened to "I wish I had a horse" because that sure brought back memories of my childhood dream (unfulfilled until I was an adult). I laughed when I heard "Blue Heeler" because I live with two and Mary Ann Kennedy obviously knows her heelers from personal experience. Wonderful CD!!!!!

  • great cd loved it
    author: Christine

    Loved this cd. great music for the barn!!

  • Awesome music for the animal lover's soul!
    author: Deb Hanson

    Mary Ann Kennedy really captures the feelings of living the country life with our beloved horses, dogs, & cats. I love her music!!

  • Perfect music for my feed store!
    author: Annie Horstmeyer

    Great music for the horse lover! I own a feed store and was looking for some quality music with good lyrics and pleasant melody ~ found it in the Trail Less Traveled! Thank you Mary Ann and blessings to you! Annie

  • Great CD for all animal lovers and grandparents of same!
    author: Jan

    LOVE the "Gotta Go Feed" song as well as each of the others on this CD and Mary Ann's other one. Her lyrics and music touch my heart and my life--and capture the magic of living with teachers who happen to be horses, dogs, and cats. We play "Gotta Go Feed" for my 2.5-year-old grandson before he helps us feed the horses and chickens. It's so joyful!

  • Absolutely wonderful! Touches the soul.
    author: Donna

    Can't stop listening. Makes me laugh and makes me cry but, most of all, it fills my soul with joy. Truly songs from the heart.

  • Wonderful music for horse lovers!
    author: Judy

    The trail less traveled is a great cd. We really love it and her other cd. We listen to them over and over again!

  • author: Pam

    Thank You for this song about Paso Fino Horses-It brought back good memories of my teen years training them. I listen to this song the most.

  • love it!!
    author: J.W. Keip farrier in Wisconsin

    A fine collection of songs, horses, dogs and cats. Any country person should relate to at least a few of these fine songs. A great line up of musicians too. Pleasing to my ears!

  • A friend singing to me in my vehicle
    author: Lorraine H. Arizona

    Love it from the Paso Fino Horse show in Georgia, 2001

  • Over all I enjoyed it.Certain songs I liked more than others.
    author: Glenda Ross

    I enjoyed the CD and have played it sevaral times. As I said some songs I like better than others but over all good CD.

  • Absolutely beautiful music
    author: Shane Sutherland

    This world has become harsh and mean. I do not understand what passes for music and lyrics anymore. I heard this CD and could not believe anything so beautiful was currently being produced. Thank God for Mary Ann Kennedy and everyone who made it possible for this music to be heard. I bought two, one for me and one for the owners of the ranch where my little mare is boarded. The cd brings us all to tears every time we hear it. Thank you so very much. Shane

  • Paints the picture in music
    author: Bklyn

    Mary Ann Kennedy has made a tremendous effort to paint you a picture of “A Trail less Traveled. She brushes a canvas with her melodic harmonizing and at some times haunting Sounds. You can see every picture with your eyes close. The music is spirited with fun and mischievous aspects. She has a time taking you around every rhythmic turn and guitar pickin straight-away’s. She pulls you in because her hook is like a big juicy candy coated red apple that you just have to bite. From Allison Krauss to vintage Linda Ronstadt to aspects of American Indian tones and a wee bit of the Irish. This Country has no borders and has its feel good foot thumpin songs as well as the one’s that pull you in and make you feel like you are right on the range looking at the sunset. We all need to wander down this road from time to time to lighten our load recharge our batteries and count our blessings. Put it in hit random and enjoy the ride down “A Trail less Traveled". Once you hit play, it will be hard to take to it out.

  • A must for any Horse Lover!
    author: Rafael A. Valle

    Beautiful and inspiring music. It touches the heart and sould of any horse lover!

  • I love it
    author: Susan Hartman

    I have always loved horses and have wanted one for as long as I can remember. Some of her songs are talking about me. I also love dogs and all animals and nature. She has a great voice and I love her style and lyrics.

  • WOW!! I LOVE IT!!
    author: Drucilla Curtis

    This CD is amazing. It really has feeling and is right on about so many aspects of animals. I have a jack russell and that song is so true. I just put my best friend of 11 years (lab rotweiler) to sleep at thanksgiving and the song goodbye really hit home but made me realize that buddy was a teacher and he helped me say goodbye which has always been really hard for me. Barn cat and cleaning stalls made me smile. Every song spoke to me in a deep way. I am grateful for both this CD and hoofbeats. They really are wonderful.

  • enjoyable and refreshing music
    author: Jim Francis

    One of the best albums i have heard in a long time we to own a blue heeler and your song says it all about the breed truly enjoy your music thank you

  • Had to have both
    author: Pat

    Had to have both cd's and a copy for my friend after previewing the songs on the website. Was originally looking for "Born to Ride" after hearing it on Parelli.

  • Story of my life
    author: Pat

    Heard her "Born to Ride" on Parelli show and had to have a copy. After reviewing the songs on the cd webpage I bought 2 copies of both cd's. One copy for my best riding friend.

  • Awesome CD, it's the 3rd I have purchased.
    author: Mary Dolkas

    Can't wait to purchase Mary Ann Kennedy's new CD. Soon as you deposit my check for the last one! Thanks, keep the great music coming!

  • awsome, beautiful cd
    author: Carly Richardson

    This is such a beautiful cd that makes my eyes welt up when i play it at the barn.

  • Loved it.
    author: Laura Lee

    I loved the content of the CD. It is fun and I too am a animal lover. Laura Lee

  • very refreshing, upbeat, sweet, earthy, heart worthy.
    author: Joy Bean

    I am enjoying this cd as it is uplifting and refreshing. Her lyrics are tantalizing and pleasant to the soul. I relate to the feelings and familiarity of the animal kingdom. This cd gets one in touch with tenderness and love--which we can't get too much of.

  • Touches the soul of any animal lover
    author: Mary

    WOW! What an introduction to Mary Ann Kennedy! This is a CD that any animal lover will understand. The song "Good-Bye" hit me the hardest as I've had to say goodbye to several 4-Legged friends. "Gotta Go Feed" made me laugh...others made me think. A GOTTA HAVE CD for animal lovers!

  • Awesome, Excellant, songs from the heart!!
    author: Nadine Natle

    Heard this music at a horse clinic. Had to get it. Bought 2, one for a friend . Love the songs!!!She called, lots of emotion.

  • Close To Home
    author: Sam Wallack

    So enjoyed this CD! So many of the songs brought back memories of beloved animals in our life. Horses, dogs, country life. Happy and poingent memories. Thank you so much Mary Ann. Looking forward to the second "The Trail Less Traveled".

  • Great C D
    author: Rosemary Byrd

    I love this C D. But, I knew I would when I ordered it because I had already heard it! I am an animal lover and some of the songs have special meaning to me. I Would like info. on The Trail Less Traveled II so I can own that one too. When is it coming out & where can I get one?

  • Great--makes me laugh and cry.
    author: The Road Less Traveled

    I ordered 5 of these to send to my friends and have received their sincere "thanks" and "where did you get this?" They are having a gathering of people that they have riden with for 20 years and plan to play the CD. If you love animals you will love this and if you happen to have a Paso Fino well---.

  • Excellent
    author: Therese Spaulding

    This is the CD I send when someone has lost an animal best friend. It's great music and excellent sentiment.

  • An unusual concept, tempered with feeling and humour, but worth listening to.
    author: Stuart Hamilton aka Zeitgeist

    An odd one this, with all the songs detailing the bond between Mary Ann and her animals, but once you navigate past the ‘twee’ concept, there are some rather endearing songs on offer. You may have seen the name tucked away on album credits over the last couple of decades with songs recorded by Emmylou Harris, Reba McEntire, Patty Loveless and Martina McBride amongst others, with Grammy nominations in the bag as well, with the first for "Ring On Her Finger, Time On Her Hands," by Lee Greenwood and Reba and Restless Heart's "I'll Still Be Loving You" chocking up nomination number two. But this time around the songs were inspired by the deaths of her dog and horse, a 15-year-old pug, Choy, and Tonka, the colt. After they both dies in August, 2000, Mary Ann handles the healing process by writing the songs on “The Trail Less Traveled “. The highlights include "Paso Fino" and "Goodbye", with the latter a song that any long term pet owner will identify with. An unusual concept, tempered with feeling and humour, but worth listening to.

  • This is a fantastic album
    author: Bob Bussey

    I bought this album for my wife...she loves all animals and grew up with horses and the rodeo. She will not part with this album.

  • A great heart touching album
    author: Loralee

    I am also an animal lover. I work part time in a animal hospital and took the album to work to share. We all could relate and some songs made us laugh. I highly recommend this one to any animal and all animal fans.

  • author: Sherry Ward

    If you love animals, you will love this CD. If you love horses, this is a must have. If you enjoy the horse life and the associated interests like barn cats and cattle dogs, this will give you joy and big smiles. And if you are at all into natural horsemanship, the artist's message will WARM your heart. I still can't sit still in some of the songs and others still give me a little tear in the corner of my eye even after the many times I have played them. I buy this CD often for gifts for special people. After you hear it, I think you will too!!

  • Expression of selfless love from the soul....kindred spirits......
    author: Pat & Bill Newbern

    This CD is for everyone who's life is, has been, and will forever be touched by the blessing and grace of the love from those wonderful "critters"...doesn't matter the size---they all contribute to our completeness with their selfless love and personalities that enrich and fulfill our lives. Mary Ann Kennedy is indeed an equal blessing with her ability to write, vocalize, and record all those things we all have felt.....What a treat & delight you have given us....Please come ride with us in the sandhills of Nebraska... Many-Many Thank you's Mary Ann!

  • Wonderful songs from the heart.
    author: Thomas Bethune

    I think that Mary Ann Kennedy sang these songs to enlighten me about my wife's relationship with her animals. I was/am deeply moved by the messages. The music itself is very well performed, and stands on its own, coupling the lyrics created magic. I just ordered five more to give to friends.

  • Well worth the investment!
    author: Colleen Greene

    Another great offering from Mary Ann Kennedy. Her solo endeavor is just as good, if not better, than her Kennedy/Rose recordings! This CD hits the heartstrings of anyone who has ever had a pet in their lives . . .

  • Her music and words will make your heart soar
    author: Bonnie Peel

    If you have a special place in your heart for your animal companions, you will absolutely love Mary Ann's music. She expresses what the rest of us all feel. I bought this CD for all of my "horse" friends, and sing it all day long.

  • Very enjoyable album
    author: O. Wes Mason

    My first album of Mary Jane Kennedy is first class. The graphic design of the package is just as enjoyable as her music. I expect it to wear well and I'll probably send it to my granddaughter, who loves horses.

  • This CD was a great gift!!
    author: Tami Pratt

    I bought this CD for my sister who has a horse farm. She absolutely loves it! She has really enjoyed listening to your music.

  • Clean, fun music that any animal lover can relate to.
    author: Mary Ann Durick

    I received this CD as a gift and loved it so much I had to buy one for a couple of friends. I may buy more in the future.

  • Loved it...got any other CD's out?
    author: Mary

    The music is nice. The words reveal a true love for her animals. Very enjoyable!

  • FANTASTIC CD
    author: Carolyn

    LOVE THE CD, HAD TO BUY ONE FOR MY FREIND THAT HAS BLUE HEELERS. I LOVE THE CONTENTS AND THE COVER OF THIS CD! THANK YOU.

  • Any animal lover can relate to this music! Please write more...
    author: Lisa

    I liked it so much, I'm going to order one for all my horse lover buddies for Christmas!

  • author: Susan Hilton

    I received my new CD, The trail less traveled and it was great to hear these songs about our beloved friends. I especially feel great when listening to the title song and I want a horse. It brought back some special feelings I had forgotten about when I was a young girl and wanted a horse. Unfortunately, I didn't get one until I was 21. Thanks for the the wonderful music on this CD and I look forward to hearing it everyday. Susan

  • Fabulous music, heartthumping lyrics
    author: Katy Pistole

    I love the whole album. I've now given it to everyone I can think of! I play it everyday while I "play" with my horses. They love it too. My Arab neighs in response to "Gotta Go Feed." Keep it up Mary Ann. Can't wait for the next one.

  • author: CD Baby

    The natural, organic, earthy songwriting is what particularly grabbed my attention in the form of full-body goosebumps- that's usually a good sign, especially when it comes so suddenly and uncontrollably. Not only in close kinship with the art of melody and harmony, the way she fleshes out her songs is equally hearty. You know that music and melody to Mary Ann Kennedy is as basic as the blood running through her veins in these substantial songs. In this animal-themed album, she speaks to the love and bond between human and beast, giving the spirit both lightness, playfulness and unique consideration.

  • Great CD!
    author: Kristen Watson

    I can totally relate to this cd and to me that is part of what makes great music, connecting with your audience. I wanted this cd for a while but never bought it until I lost my sweet, wonderful Tiger 2 1/2 weeks ago. I needed help dealing with my terrible loss and this cd helped me through part of the healing process. It's great to know that someone out there can empathize with you and has been through what you are going through. Thank you Maryann for the great music!! I would recommend this cd to anyone who loves animals or has lost a beloved animal family member!

  • Hummed at dinner party
    author: Annonymous

    I am so in love with The Trail Less Taveled, that I found myself humming "I wish I had a horse" at a formal dinner party a couple of weeks ago. The music lives in my head where ever I am.

  • Love the CD and gave it to my best horsey friends for Christmas. We can all rel
    author: Lynn Cobb

    This CD was so awsome and speaks to anyone who has every longed for and love a horse, dog or cat. The Barn Cat song could be written about our kitties. This makes a great gift for someone who loves animals and already has everything else!

  • The best gift!
    author: Judy

    A friend gave me "The Trail Less Traveled" about two weeks before Christmas. I loved it so much I have given copies to all my "critter loving" friends. We talk about how touching and how funny it is. Each of us has a favorite to which we know all the words and sing often. Mine is Paso Fino!

  • This CD tells of our heart bond with our animal families on so many levels
    author: Nashville Fan

    This CD puts into words the feelings I feel, but can't put to words myself. This music, not to mention Mary Ann's soulful voice, reaches out and touches the heart of anyone who listens to it. It will make you laugh and it will make you cry...just as the animals who touch our lives do everyday! Here's to Mary Ann for raising our consciousness in celebrating how much joy our horses, dogs, cats and all animals, bring to our existence on this planet. THANK YOU, MARY ANN!!!

  • Music with a heart
    author: Pieter from Holland

    Knowing Mary Ann especially from her backvocals on a couple hunderd of my CD's and from her recordings with Kennedy Rose i just ordered this one in the confidence to add a good record to my collection. And my trust was not disappointed. A remarkable album. Mary keep on the good work.

  • Review by CD Baby!
    author: CD BABY

    The natural, organic, earthy songwriting is what particularly grabbed my attention in the form of full-body goosebumps- that's usually a good sign, especially when it comes so suddenly and uncontrollably. Not only in close kinship with the art of melody and harmony, the way she fleshes out her songs is equally hearty. You know that music and melody to Mary Ann Kennedy is as basic as the blood running through her veins in these substantial songs. In this animal-themed album, she speaks to the love and bond between human and beast, giving the spirit both lightness, playfulness and unique consideration.

  • author: Judy DeHaan

    Not only can people who have animals relate to this CD, but they can enjoy a different style and sound with each song, all with Maryann's unique and beautiful voice and the fabulous musicians playing with her. I love it.

  • I LOVE this CD
    author: Kathy Rumsmoke

    I LOVE this CD. I would listen to it day and night if I could. Mary Ann has put my feeling for my dogs and horses to music. Thank you Mary Ann

  • It's a must have CD.
    author: Lana Puckett

    I had the pleasure of hearing this project in the early stages and was very touched by the wonderful message and Mary Ann's vocals. It's a must have CD.

  • This CD is a fantastic Christmas/Birthday or just "Ya gotta hear this beautiful
    author: Anita Pierce

    I've purchased 10 so far... this CD is a fantastic Christmas/Birthday or just "Ya gotta hear this beautiful music!" gift to give. Thank you Maryann for putting into words and song, those special feelings we all share. And thank you Judy Parry for sharing your special friend and her talent with us.

  • Once again, Mary Ann Kennedy speaks directly from her heart to ours.
    author: Carla Puckett

    Once again, Mary Ann Kennedy speaks directly from her heart to ours. I've followed her songwriting and singing career ever since her days in Calamity Jane, and her music truly speaks to me. This cd is no exception. Thank you for once again sharing your heart with us. You've written and sang about feelings that we all have experienced. I've recommended this cd to over a dozen email groups for horse, donkey and mule lovers.

  • You'll enjoy these 11 songs that speak to spirit, heart, and hand.
    author: B. J. O'Neill

    If you love horses and the strength of a kind hand and pure heart, you'll play this over and over again. If you love dogs and critters of all kinds, and the power of their spirit over the land, you'll enjoy these 11 songs that speak to spirit, heart, and hand. If you enjoy the voice of a strong woman, and love the land, the poetry and rhythms here will please you! This CD was more than I expected, and I am grateful that we know a voice and a well-crafted talent that is Mary Ann Kennedy.

  • If I was on the Survivor show
    author: Kay Sutton

    If I was on the Survivor show and I could only take a few things this CD would be at the top of the list. The message is universal. Thanks Mary Ann.

  • A Quote from Emmylou Harris about "The Trail Less Traveled"
    author: A Quote from Emmylou Harris

    EMMYLOU HARRIS SAYS: Mary Ann Kennedy and I have known each other and worked together for almost 20 years. We share a passion for music, and have been fortunate enough to make our "living" at it. But, we also share another passion, a deep love for animals, all animals and especially the ones who have graced our lives by their presence in our lives. 'The Trail Less Traveled' celebrates that grace and the special relationship we have with these beings that bring us closer to our humanity by showing us love that is truly unconditional. This record is for anyone who has been down that trail. We still have a long way to go, but thanks to Mary Ann, we now have a soundtrack for the journey.

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