About the song
For those of us who’ve lived a bit, who’ve seen trends come and go and witnessed the evolution of music, George Strait stands as a steadfast figure, a true traditionalist in a world often clamoring for the new and the fleeting. **“Amarillo By Morning”** isn’t just a song; it’s a vignette, a carefully painted picture of a rodeo cowboy’s life, with all its inherent romance and rugged reality. It speaks of journeys undertaken, of dreams chased under the vast expanse of the American sky, and the quiet sacrifices made along the way.
Released in 1983 as part of his second album, *Strait from the Heart*, this song quickly became an anthem, not just for those who lived the rodeo life, but for anyone who understood the bittersweet nature of pursuing a passion. The beauty of **“Amarillo By Morning”** lies in its understated elegance. There are no grand pronouncements or dramatic flourishes; instead, we are treated to a simple, yet profound narrative delivered with Strait’s signature smooth baritone. His voice carries a sincerity that makes you believe every word, every sentiment.
The lyrics, co-written by Terry Stafford and Paul Fraser, are masterful in their concise storytelling. They paint a vivid picture of a weary traveler, his rodeo days behind him for the moment, making his way towards the promise of a new dawn in Amarillo. The imagery is rich and evocative: the worn-out saddle, the fiddle and guitar tucked away, the memories of cheering crowds juxtaposed with the quiet solitude of the road. It’s a song about the transient nature of life on the circuit, the constant movement, and the yearning for something more permanent, even amidst the thrill of the ride.
The melody itself is deceptively simple, a gentle, rolling tune that perfectly complements the lyrical content. It’s the kind of melody that settles comfortably in your heart, the kind you find yourself humming along to without even realizing it. The instrumentation is classic country, featuring the warm strum of acoustic guitars, the mournful cry of a steel guitar, and a rhythm section that provides a steady, unobtrusive heartbeat to the song. It’s a sound that feels both familiar and timeless, a testament to the enduring power of traditional country arrangements.
**“Amarillo By Morning”** isn’t just a collection of notes and words; it’s an emotion. It speaks to the universal experiences of hope and weariness, of chasing dreams and facing the realities of life on the road. It’s a song that resonates with those who understand the value of hard work, the sting of disappointment, and the quiet dignity of carrying on.
Over the years, **“Amarillo By Morning”** has become more than just a hit song; it has become an integral part of the country music canon. It’s a song that continues to be played on the radio, requested at concerts, and covered by other artists, each rendition a testament to its enduring appeal. It’s a reminder of a time when storytelling and genuine emotion were at the forefront of country music, and in many ways, it continues to serve as a benchmark for authenticity in the genre. So, let us settle in and appreciate the timeless beauty and heartfelt narrative of **“Amarillo By Morning” by George Strait**, a true gem in the crown of country music.
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
