About the song
“Amarillo By Morning” isn’t just a song; it’s a quintessential piece of American storytelling, a ballad that resonates with the heart of the country itself. When we talk about **George Strait**, we’re talking about a man who embodies the very essence of country music – authentic, timeless, and deeply rooted in tradition. And this song, released in 1983, stands as a testament to his enduring artistry.
At its core, “Amarillo By Morning” paints a vivid picture of the rodeo cowboy’s life – the long, lonesome nights on the road, the fleeting moments of glory, and the quiet dignity of a man facing his challenges with stoicism. The lyrics, penned by Terry Stafford and Paul Fraser, are poetic in their simplicity, capturing the bittersweet reality of a life lived on the fringes of society. It’s a narrative that speaks to the universal themes of perseverance, resilience, and the quiet strength of the human spirit.
**Strait’s** delivery is nothing short of masterful. His voice, smooth as aged whiskey, carries the weight of experience, conveying both the weariness and the unwavering determination of the song’s protagonist. There’s a sense of authenticity in every note, a connection to the heartland that transcends mere entertainment. It’s a performance that feels less like a song and more like a shared moment of reflection, a quiet acknowledgment of the struggles and triumphs that shape our lives.
The arrangement, understated and elegant, perfectly complements the song’s narrative. The gentle strumming of the acoustic guitar, the mournful strains of the fiddle, and the steady rhythm of the bass create a backdrop that’s both intimate and expansive. It’s a sound that evokes the vastness of the Texas plains, the quiet solitude of a pre-dawn morning, and the enduring spirit of the American West.
“Amarillo By Morning” isn’t just a country classic; it’s a piece of Americana, a song that speaks to the heart of the nation. It’s a reminder of the values that have shaped our country – hard work, perseverance, and the quiet dignity of a life lived with integrity. And in **George Strait’s** hands, it becomes a timeless anthem, a song that will continue to resonate with generations to come.
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
