About the song
In the vast landscape of country music, certain songs resonate with an enduring quality, capturing the essence of a lifestyle, a spirit, and a longing that transcends generations. **George Strait’s “Amarillo By Morning”** is undoubtedly one such masterpiece. Released in 1982 as part of his debut album, “Strait from the Heart,” this song quickly ascended the charts, solidifying Strait’s status as a rising star and cementing his place in the pantheon of country music legends.
“Amarillo By Morning” is more than just a catchy tune; it’s a poignant narrative, a vivid portrayal of the quintessential cowboy, a figure deeply ingrained in the American consciousness. The lyrics, penned by Terry Stafford and Paul Fraser, paint a picture of a wanderer, a man of few possessions but rich in spirit, driven by an unwavering desire for freedom and a deep connection to the land.
The song’s protagonist is a rodeo rider, a modern-day cowboy traversing the vast expanse of Texas, his heart set on the next competition, the next challenge. He’s a man who has known both triumphs and setbacks, his journey marked by the joys of victory and the pains of loss. Yet, through it all, he remains resilient, his spirit unbroken, his eyes fixed on the horizon, symbolized by the promise of Amarillo, a city that represents hope and a fresh start.
**George Strait’s** rendition of this timeless tale is nothing short of iconic. His smooth, rich vocals imbue the song with an authenticity that resonates deeply with listeners. He doesn’t just sing the words; he embodies the character, conveying the cowboy’s quiet strength, his unwavering determination, and his deep-seated love for the open road.
The song’s melody, with its gentle, rolling rhythm, perfectly complements the narrative. It evokes the vastness of the Texas plains, the solitude of the cowboy’s journey, and the quiet beauty of a sunrise over the prairie. The instrumentation, featuring the classic sounds of acoustic guitar, fiddle, and steel guitar, adds to the song’s timeless appeal, creating a sonic landscape that is both familiar and comforting.
“Amarillo By Morning” is more than just a song; it’s a cultural touchstone, a piece of Americana that captures the heart and soul of the cowboy mythos. It’s a song that speaks to the dreams and aspirations of those who yearn for freedom, independence, and a life lived on their own terms. And it’s a song that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages, reminding us of the enduring power of music to tell stories, evoke emotions, and connect us to something larger than ourselves.
So, whether you’re a longtime fan of **George Strait** or a newcomer to the world of country music, **”Amarillo By Morning”** is a song that deserves a place in your collection. It’s a timeless classic, a testament to the enduring spirit of the cowboy, and a reminder that sometimes, the greatest adventures are found not in the destination, but in the journey itself.
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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
