About the song
“Should’ve Been a Cowboy”: A Timeless Country Classic
There’s something undeniably nostalgic about the sound of a twangy guitar and a heartfelt country ballad. Toby Keith’s breakout single, “Should’ve Been a Cowboy,” perfectly encapsulates that classic country sound, making it a timeless anthem that continues to resonate with listeners of all ages. Released in 1993, this song not only propelled Keith to stardom but also left an enduring mark on the country music landscape.
At its core, “Should’ve Been a Cowboy” is a reflection on life’s choices and the allure of a simpler, more carefree existence. Keith paints a vivid picture of a life spent roaming the open range, far removed from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The song’s narrator expresses a sense of longing for a life less ordinary, a life where he could ride off into the sunset and leave his troubles behind.
The lyrics of “Should’ve Been a Cowboy” are filled with imagery that evokes the American West: dusty trails, starry nights, and the freedom of the open road. Keith’s storytelling abilities shine through as he weaves a tale of regret and longing that is both relatable and evocative. The song’s chorus, with its catchy melody and memorable lyrics, has become one of the most recognizable in country music history.
Beyond its catchy tune and relatable lyrics, “Should’ve Been a Cowboy” also stands out for its production. The song’s instrumentation is stripped-down and straightforward, with the focus squarely on Keith’s vocals and the heartfelt lyrics. The production style is reminiscent of classic country records from the 1970s and 1980s, giving the song a timeless quality.
“Should’ve Been a Cowboy” was a massive commercial success, topping the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and becoming one of the most played country songs of the 1990s. The song’s popularity helped to solidify Keith’s status as a major force in country music, and it has since become a staple of his live performances.
In conclusion, Toby Keith’s “Should’ve Been a Cowboy” is a country music classic that continues to resonate with listeners of all ages. The song’s relatable lyrics, catchy melody, and timeless production have ensured its place in the country music canon. Whether you’re a longtime fan of country music or simply appreciate a well-crafted song, “Should’ve Been a Cowboy” is a must-listen.
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Lyrics
I bet you’ve never heard ol’ Marshal Dillon say
Miss Kitty, have you ever thought of runnin’ away?
Settlin’ down, would you marry me
If I asked you twice and begged you, pretty please?
She’d have said, “Yes”, in a New York minute
They never tied the knot, his heart wasn’t in it
He just stole a kiss as he rode away
He never hung his hat up at Kitty’s place
I should’ve been a cowboy
I should’ve learned to rope and ride
Wearin’ my six-shooter, ridin’ my pony on a cattle drive
Stealin’ the young girls’ hearts
Just like Gene and Roy
Singin’ those campfire songs
Woah, I should’ve been a cowboy
I might of had a sidekick with a funny name
Runnin’ wild through the hills chasin’ Jesse James
Ending up on the brink of danger
Ridin’ shotgun for the Texas Rangers
Go west young man, haven’t you been told?
California’s full of whiskey, women and gold
Sleepin’ out all night beneath the desert stars
With a dream in my eye and a prayer in my heart
I should’ve been a cowboy
I should’ve learned to rope and ride
Wearin’ my six-shooter, ridin’ my pony on a cattle drive
Stealin’ the young girls’ hearts
Just like Gene and Roy
Singin’ those campfire songs
Woah, I should’ve been a cowboy
I should’ve been a cowboy
I should’ve learned to rope and ride
I’d be wearin’ my six-shooter, ridin’ my pony on a cattle drive
Stealin’ the young girls’ hearts
Just like Gene and Roy
Singin’ those campfire songs
Woah, I should’ve been a cowboy
Yeah, I should’ve been a cowboy
I should’ve been a cowboy
