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Introduction
George Strait: “Amarillo By Morning” – A Timeless Journey of the Heart
Ladies and gentlemen, gather ’round, settle in, and let’s take a trip back to a time when country music was pure, storytelling was king, and the voice of George Strait reigned supreme. Tonight, we’re going to revisit a true classic, a song that’s woven itself into the fabric of country music history, a tune that’s as comfortable on a jukebox in a dusty Texas honky-tonk as it is echoing through the grand halls of the Country Music Hall of Fame. We’re talking about “Amarillo By Morning,” a song that, even after all these years, still resonates with the raw emotion of a rambling man’s heart.
Now, George Strait, “The King” himself, he’s a legend, a cornerstone of the genre. He’s not one for flashy theatrics or over-the-top productions. His strength lies in his authenticity, his smooth-as-whiskey vocals, and his ability to deliver a song with a sincerity that cuts right through the noise. He’s a traditionalist, a keeper of the flame, and “Amarillo By Morning” is a perfect example of what makes him so beloved.
This isn’t just a song; it’s a story. It’s a snapshot of a life lived on the road, a life of rodeos and dreams, of love found and lost, and the bittersweet ache of always moving on. It speaks to the wanderer in all of us, that yearning for something just out of reach, that constant push and pull between the desire for stability and the irresistible call of the open road. It’s a theme that’s as old as time, and it’s one that George Strait delivers with a quiet power that’s both heartbreaking and beautiful.
“Amarillo By Morning” wasn’t actually written by Strait. It was penned by Terry Stafford and Paul Fraser, two songwriters who perfectly captured the spirit of the cowboy drifter. But when George Strait sang it, he made it his own. He infused it with his own brand of Texas charm, his own understanding of the cowboy code, and his own unique vocal phrasing that made every word ring true.
Think about the imagery in this song. The dusty rodeo grounds, the rumble of the tour bus, the lonely nights in motel rooms, the fleeting connections with strangers along the way. It paints a vivid picture of a life lived on the fringes, a life where the only constant is the journey itself. And then there’s the woman, the one left behind, the one who represents a chance at settling down, a chance at love and happiness. But the road calls, and the cowboy must answer. It’s a classic dilemma, the push and pull between love and freedom, between roots and wings.
The beauty of “Amarillo By Morning” lies in its simplicity. There are no complex metaphors or flowery language. It’s just a straightforward story, told with honesty and grace. The melody is simple, yet unforgettable. The instrumentation is classic country, with the gentle strum of the acoustic guitar, the mournful cry of the steel guitar, and the steady beat of the drums. It’s a sound that’s both familiar and comforting, a sound that takes you back to a simpler time.
This song isn’t about the glitz and glamour of the music industry. It’s about the real lives of real people, the struggles and triumphs, the joys and sorrows that we all experience. It’s about the human condition, the search for meaning and purpose, the longing for connection. And it’s about the power of music to capture those feelings and express them in a way that touches our hearts and souls.
So, as we listen to “Amarillo By Morning” tonight, let’s take a moment to appreciate the artistry of George Strait, the songwriting prowess of Terry Stafford and Paul Fraser, and the timeless beauty of this classic country song. Let’s close our eyes and let the music transport us back to a time when life was a little simpler, and the stories were a little more real. Let’s celebrate the enduring power of country music to connect us to each other and to the deepest parts of ourselves. And most importantly, let’s enjoy the ride.
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…