About the song
Iet’s dive into the heart of a classic country tune. When we talk about timeless country music, the name **George Strait** inevitably comes up. And within his vast catalog, “I Can Still Make Cheyenne” stands out as a poignant example of his storytelling prowess. This song, released in 1996 as part of the “Blue Clear Sky” album, isn’t just another track; it’s a narrative that resonates deeply with anyone who’s experienced the push and pull of love and life’s unexpected turns.
“I Can Still Make Cheyenne” weaves a tale of a man grappling with the realization that his relationship is crumbling. The lyrics, penned by Aaron Barker and Erv Woolsey, paint a vivid picture of someone trying to hold onto the remnants of a love that’s slipping away. The phrase “I can still make Cheyenne” itself is a powerful symbol. Cheyenne, Wyoming, represents a destination, a goal, a place where things could still be salvaged. It’s a metaphor for the protagonist’s hope, however faint, that he can still mend what’s broken.
What makes this song particularly compelling is Strait’s delivery. His voice, smooth and rich, conveys a sense of quiet desperation. There’s no over-the-top emotion, no dramatic theatrics; just a raw, honest portrayal of a man facing a difficult truth. This understated approach is a hallmark of Strait’s style, and it’s precisely what allows listeners to connect with the song on such a personal level.
The production of “I Can Still Make Cheyenne” is also noteworthy. It’s classic country, with a blend of acoustic and steel guitars that create a melancholic yet beautiful backdrop. The instrumentation complements the lyrics perfectly, enhancing the song’s emotional impact. When you listen to this track, you’re not just hearing a song; you’re experiencing a story, a moment in someone’s life that feels both intimate and universal.
In essence, “I Can Still Make Cheyenne” is a testament to George Strait’s ability to capture the complexities of human emotion in a simple, yet profound way. It’s a song that speaks to the heart, reminding us that even in the face of adversity, there’s always a glimmer of hope, a chance to “make Cheyenne.” And in the world of country music, that’s a sentiment that never gets old.
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Lyrics
Her telephone rang ’bout a quarter to nine
She heard his voice on the other end of the line
She wondered what was wrong this time
She never knew what his calls might bring
With a cowboy like him, it could be anything
And she always expected the worst
In the back of her mind
He said, it’s cold out here and I’m all alone
Didn’t make the short go again and I’m coming home
I know I’ve been away too long
I never got a chance to write or call
And I know this rodeo has been hard on us all
But I’ll be home soon
And honey is there somethin’ wrong
She said, don’t bother comin’ home
By time you get here I’ll be long gone
There’s somebody new and he sure ain’t no rodeo man
He said, I’m sorry it’s come down to this
There’s so much about you that I’m gonna miss
But it’s alright baby
If I hurry I can still make Cheyenne
Gotta go now baby
If I hurry I can still make Cheyenne
He left that phone danglin’ off the hook
Then slowly turned around and gave it one last look
Then he just walked away
He aimed his truck toward that Wyoming line
With a little luck he could still get there in time
And in that Cheyenne wind he could still hear her say
She said, don’t bother comin’ home
By time you get here I’ll be long gone
There’s somebody new and he sure ain’t no rodeo man
He said, I’m sorry it’s come down to this
There’s so much about you that I’m gonna miss
But it’s alright baby
If I hurry I can still make Cheyenne
Gotta go now baby
If I hurry I can still make Cheyenne
She never knew what his calls might bring
With a cowboy like him, it could be anything
And she always expected the worst
In the back of her mind
