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Introduction
A Classic Ode to the Rodeo: George Strait & Alan Jackson’s “Amarillo by Morning”
In the world of country music, few songs are as iconic as “Amarillo by Morning.” Released in 1989, the song quickly became a massive hit, reaching the top of the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and earning a Grammy Award for Best Country Song. Written by Paul Harvey and Waylon Jennings, “Amarillo by Morning” tells the story of a young cowboy who rides his horse all night to get to Amarillo, Texas, in time for a rodeo. The song is a classic ode to the American West and the cowboy way of life, and it remains one of the most popular country songs of all time.
The song’s history begins in 1988, when Paul Harvey wrote the lyrics for “Amarillo by Morning.” Harvey was a radio broadcaster who was known for his colorful commentary on American life. He was also a friend of Waylon Jennings, a country music legend who had been a rodeo cowboy in his youth. Harvey wrote the song for Jennings, and Jennings immediately loved it. He recorded the song for his 1989 album Hangin’ On, and it was released as the album’s first single.
“Amarillo by Morning” was an instant hit, and it quickly climbed the country charts. The song was praised for its catchy melody, its evocative lyrics, and its powerful vocals. It was also praised for its authenticity, as Jennings was a true cowboy who had lived the life that the song described.
In 1990, George Strait recorded a cover of “Amarillo by Morning” for his album Carrying On. Strait’s version of the song was even more successful than Jennings’ original, and it reached the top of the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart for two weeks. Strait’s version of the song also earned him a Grammy Award for Best Country Vocal Performance, Male.
“Amarillo by Morning” has become a country music classic, and it is still one of the most popular songs on the radio today. The song has been covered by many artists, including Garth Brooks, Reba McEntire, and Alan Jackson. It has also been featured in numerous movies and television shows.
In addition to its musical success, “Amarillo by Morning” has also become a cultural icon. The song is often used to represent the American West and the cowboy way of life. It is also a popular choice for weddings and other special occasions.
“Amarillo by Morning” is a timeless classic that will continue to be enjoyed for many years to come. It is a song that captures the spirit of the American West and the cowboy way of life in a way that no other song can.
Here are some additional facts about “Amarillo by Morning”:
- The song is set in Amarillo, Texas, which is a real city. Amarillo is located in the Panhandle region of Texas, and it is known for its rodeo and its cowboy culture.
- The song was written by Paul Harvey, who was a radio broadcaster and friend of Waylon Jennings.
- The song was first recorded by Waylon Jennings in 1989.
- The song was also recorded by George Strait in 1990.
- Strait’s version of the song reached the top of the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart for two weeks.
- “Amarillo by Morning” has been covered by many artists, including Garth Brooks, Reba McEntire, and Alan Jackson.
- The song has been featured in numerous movies and television shows.
- “Amarillo by Morning” is a classic ode to the American West and the cowboy way of life.
I hope you enjoyed this introduction to “Amarillo by Morning.”