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Introduction
The Cowboy Rides Away: A Farewell to an Era
“The Cowboy Rides Away” is more than just a song; it’s a poignant farewell to a bygone era etched into the heart of country music. Penned by Casey Kelly and James F. Throckmorton, this timeless ballad was brought to life by the unmistakable voice of George Strait. Released in 1985 as part of his album Does Fort Worth Ever Cross Your Mind, the song quickly resonated with audiences, becoming a signature piece in Strait’s repertoire and a country music standard.
The song’s narrative unfolds as a poignant reflection of a cowboy’s life. It paints a vivid picture of a solitary figure, weary from the challenges of the open range, making the difficult decision to hang up his spurs. The lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia, capturing the essence of the cowboy lifestyle – the vast landscapes, the enduring spirit, and the bittersweet reality of change. Strait’s rich baritone voice delivers the lyrics with a heartfelt sincerity that pulls listeners into the cowboy’s world, allowing them to share his emotions.
Beyond its personal narrative, “The Cowboy Rides Away” serves as a broader metaphor for the evolution of the American West. As the song suggests, the traditional cowboy way of life was giving way to a new era, marked by urbanization and industrialization. In this sense, the song becomes a melancholic tribute to a vanishing chapter of American history.
Released during the 1980s, a decade often associated with a more upbeat sound in country music, “The Cowboy Rides Away” stood out as a poignant counterpoint. Its success underscored the enduring appeal of traditional country themes and the power of storytelling in music. The song’s impact extends far beyond its initial release, becoming an anthem for countless fans and a testament to the enduring legacy of George Strait as a country music icon.
Video
Lyrics
And when she dealt the cards I dealt my heart
Now I just found a game that I can’t play
And this is where the cowboy rides awayAnd my heart is sinking like the setting sun
Setting on the things I wish I’d done
It’s time to say goodbye to yesterday
And this is where the cowboy rides awayWe’ve been in and out of love and in-between
And now we play the final show-down scene
And as the credits roll a sad song starts to play
And this is where the cowboy rides awayAnd my heart is sinking like the setting sun
Setting on the things I wish I’d done
Oh the last goodbye’s the hardest one to say
And this is where the cowboy rides away
Oh the last goodbye’s the hardest one to say
And this is where the cowboy rides away…