About the song
“Amarillo by Morning” is a timeless country music classic that has captured the hearts of listeners for decades. Recorded by George Strait in 1982 for his album Strait from the Heart, the song has become one of his signature tunes and a staple of country music. The song’s gentle melody and poignant lyrics, penned by Terry Stafford, paint a vivid picture of a cowboy’s longing for his loved one in Amarillo, Texas.
The song’s impact extends far beyond the country music scene. It has been covered by numerous artists, including rodeo champion Chris LeDoux, Asleep at the Wheel, and John Arthur Martinez. The song has also been featured in various contexts, including space missions – it was played for the entire crew during STS-114 in honor of astronaut Rick Husband, who was born in Amarillo.
“Amarillo by Morning” has received widespread critical acclaim, with Billboard and American Songwriter ranking it among the greatest George Strait songs of all time. Rolling Stone has also included it in its list of the 200 Greatest Country Songs of All Time. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and the power of country music to evoke emotions and tell stories.
The song’s legacy extends beyond its musical impact. It has been named one of the top country songs of all time by Country Music Television and the Western Writers of America. It has also been recognized as one of the best songs about a place by tourism-related officials. Whether played at rodeos or in space, “Amarillo by Morning” remains a beloved classic that continues to captivate audiences to this day.
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