About the song
If you’re a fan of classic country music, there’s no doubt you’ve heard the iconic melody of **”Mammas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys”**. This timeless ballad, a duet between country legends **Willie Nelson** and **Waylon Jennings**, has been a staple on country radio stations for decades. Released in 1978, the song quickly became a fan favorite and a cornerstone of the outlaw country movement.
Written by Ed Bruce and Patsy Bruce, the song paints a vivid picture of the hardships faced by cowboys and the concerns of mothers who worry about their sons choosing such a tough and unpredictable lifestyle. The lyrics, filled with imagery of dusty trails, lonely nights, and the constant threat of danger, capture the essence of the cowboy’s life in a way that is both romantic and realistic.
**Willie Nelson’s** smooth, soulful vocals and **Waylon Jennings’** gritty, rebellious tone create a perfect harmony that perfectly complements the song’s themes. Their delivery is both heartfelt and nostalgic, transporting listeners to a simpler time when life was lived on the open road.
The song’s popularity can be attributed to several factors. First, its relatable themes of love, loss, and the challenges of growing up resonate with audiences of all ages. Second, the song’s catchy melody and memorable chorus make it easy to sing along to. And third, the collaboration between **Willie Nelson** and **Waylon Jennings**, two of the most influential figures in country music history, helped to elevate the song to iconic status.
Beyond its commercial success, **”Mammas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys”** has had a significant impact on country music. The song helped to define the outlaw country movement, which challenged the traditional sound of country music and celebrated a more rebellious and individualistic spirit. It also inspired countless other country artists to explore similar themes of love, loss, and the American West.
**”Mammas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys”** is more than just a song; it’s a cultural touchstone that has stood the test of time. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the power of great songwriting and the enduring appeal of the cowboy mythos. Whether you’re a lifelong country music fan or simply looking for a great song to add to your playlist, **”Mammas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys”** is sure to please.
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Lyrics
Mamas, don’t let your babies grow up to be cowboys
Don’t let ’em pick guitars and drive them old trucks
Make ’em be doctors and lawyers and such
Mamas, don’t let your babies grow up to be cowboys
They’ll never stay home and they’re always alone
Even with someone they love
Cowboys ain’t easy to love and they’re harder to hold
They’d rather give you a song than diamonds or gold
Lonestar belt buckles and old faded Levis
And each night begins a new day
If you don’t understand him, and he don’t die young
He’ll probably just ride away
Mamas, don’t let your babies grow up to be cowboys
Don’t let ’em pick guitars or drive them old trucks
Make ’em be doctors and lawyers and such
Mamas, don’t let your babies grow up to be cowboys
They’ll never stay home and they’re always alone
Even with someone they love
Cowboys like smoky old pool rooms and clear mountain mornings
Little warm puppies and children and girls of the night
And them that don’t know him won’t like him and them that do
Sometimes won’t know how to take him
He ain’t wrong, he’s just different but his pride won’t let him
Do things to make you think he’s right
Mamas, don’t let your babies grow up to be cowboys
Don’t let ’em pick guitars and drive them old trucks
Make ’em be doctors and lawyers and such
Mamas, don’t let your babies grow up to be cowboys
They’ll never stay home and they’re always alone
Even with someone they love
Mamas, don’t let your babies grow up to be cowboys
Don’t let ’em pick guitars and drive them old trucks
Make ’em be doctors and lawyers and such
Mamas, don’t let your babies grow up to be cowboys.
