Introduction
The Road Less Traveled: A Look at George Strait’s “Amarillo by Morning”
“Amarillo by Morning,” a staple of George Strait’s discography, isn’t just a catchy tune – it’s a poignant look into the heart of a rodeo cowboy. While the song is synonymous with Strait’s smooth vocals and signature neotraditional sound, its origins lie a decade earlier with songwriters Terry Stafford and Paul Fraser.
Stafford, a former rock and roll artist with a surprising connection to Amarillo himself (having a hit song in the 1960s), found inspiration for the song in an unlikely place – a commercial. While the details differ slightly, some accounts say Stafford was driving home to Amarillo after a rodeo in San Antonio when he heard an ad for overnight delivery that mentioned the city. Others claim the inspiration struck in Nashville, where Stafford was working as a songwriter. Regardless of the location, the phrase “Amarillo by Morning” sparked the creation of a song that would perfectly capture the essence of the rodeo life.
Fraser, another songwriter with rock and roll roots, joined Stafford in crafting the song. Originally intended for a film score, “Amarillo by Morning” quickly evolved into a song about the bittersweet reality of the rodeo circuit. The lyrics, delivered with Strait’s signature stoicism, paint a picture of a world filled with fleeting connections, physical challenges, and financial uncertainty. Lines like “I ain’t got a dime/But what I’ve got is mine” showcase the cowboy’s pride in his independence, even as he acknowledges the hardships.
Stafford released his own version of “Amarillo by Morning” in 1973, achieving moderate success. However, the song wasn’t destined for widespread recognition until Strait took the reins nearly ten years later. Strait’s 1982 rendition, with its prominent fiddle and driving rhythm section, resonated deeply with country music audiences. It became a number one hit, launching Strait’s career into superstardom and solidifying “Amarillo by Morning” as a country music classic.
“Amarillo by Morning” transcends its status as a catchy tune. It’s a testament to the enduring allure of the cowboy spirit, a celebration of freedom even in the face of adversity. So, as the first twangs of the guitar ring out, prepare to be transported to a world of dusty arenas, late-night drives, and the unwavering determination of a man on the rodeo road.