About the song
**Amarillo By Morning** – **George Strait** is more than just a country song; it’s a poignant story of resilience, sacrifice, and the restless spirit of a rodeo cowboy. Originally written by Terry Stafford and Paul Fraser in 1973, the song found its true voice when **George Strait** recorded it for his 1982 album *Strait from the Heart*. Since then, it has become one of the most beloved and enduring tracks in country music history, embodying the essence of the genre with its simple yet deeply evocative storytelling.
At its heart, **Amarillo By Morning** captures the life of a man dedicated to the rodeo circuit, sacrificing comfort and stability in pursuit of his passion. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of hardship—losing money, breaking bones, and facing loneliness—yet the protagonist remains undeterred, driven by an unshakable love for the open road and the thrill of the ride. The line *“I ain’t got a dime, but what I got is mine”* speaks volumes about the cowboy’s unwavering spirit, prioritizing freedom and experience over material wealth.
Musically, the song’s structure is deceptively simple, yet it carries an emotional weight that lingers long after the last note fades. The gentle fiddle introduction sets a melancholic yet beautiful tone, while **George Strait**’s smooth, effortless vocals bring a quiet dignity to the lyrics. His delivery is neither overly dramatic nor sentimental—it’s honest, restrained, and deeply moving. Unlike many country songs that lean heavily into heartbreak, **Amarillo By Morning** exudes a quiet acceptance of life’s struggles, making it all the more powerful.
Over the decades, the song has remained a fan favorite, often cited as one of the greatest country songs of all time. It encapsulates the themes of perseverance and independence that define classic country music, and **George Strait**, with his signature blend of authenticity and understated charm, makes it an enduring masterpiece. Whether you’re a lifelong country fan or a newcomer to the genre, **Amarillo By Morning** stands as a timeless reminder of the sacrifices made in the pursuit of one’s dreams.
Video
Lyrics
Amarillo by mornin’
Up from San Antone
Everything that I got
Is just what I’ve got on
When that Sun is high
In that Texas sky
I’ll be buckin’ at the county fair
Amarillo by mornin’
Amarillo I’ll be there
They took my saddle in Houston
Broke my leg in Santa Fe
Lost my wife and a girlfriend
Somewhere along the way
But I’ll be lookin’ for eight
When they pull that gate
And I hope that
Judge ain’t blind
Amarillo by mornin’
Amarillo’s on my mind
Amarillo by mornin’
Up from San Antone
Everything that I got
Is just what I’ve got on
I ain’t got a dime
But what I’ve got is mine
I ain’t rich
But Lord, I’m free
Amarillo by mornin’
Amarillo’s where I’ll be
Amarillo by mornin’
Amarillo’s where I’ll be
