About the song
Let’s delve into the world of country music with Glen Campbell’s iconic hit, “Rhinestone Cowboy.”
Penned by Larry Weiss, “Rhinestone Cowboy” was released in 1975 as the lead single from Glen Campbell’s album of the same name. The song quickly became one of Campbell’s signature tunes and a classic in the country genre.
With its infectious melody and relatable lyrics, “Rhinestone Cowboy” tells the story of a struggling artist determined to make it big in the competitive world of showbiz. The imagery of a cowboy adorned in rhinestones serves as a metaphor for the artist’s resilience and determination to shine brightly despite the challenges he faces.
Upon its release, “Rhinestone Cowboy” soared to the top of the charts, becoming a massive commercial success. It topped the Billboard Hot 100 and Hot Country Singles charts, solidifying Glen Campbell’s status as a music legend. The song also earned Campbell a Grammy Award nomination for Best Country Song.
“Rhinestone Cowboy” resonated with audiences across generations, its timeless appeal making it a beloved classic that continues to be celebrated to this day. With its catchy melody and inspiring message of perseverance, it’s no wonder that “Rhinestone Cowboy” remains a staple in the country music canon, firmly cementing Glen Campbell’s legacy as one of the genre’s most iconic figures.
Video
Lyrics
I’ve been walkin’ these streets so long
Singin’ the same old song
I know every crack in these dirty sidewalks of Broadway
Where hustle’s the name of the game
And nice guys get washed away like the snow in the rain
There’s been a load of compromising
On the road to my horizon
But I’m gonna be where the lights are shinin’ on me
Like a rhinestone cowboy
Riding out on a horse in a star-spangled rodeo
Like a rhinestone cowboy
Getting cards and letters from people I don’t even know
And offers comin’ over the phone
Well, I really don’t mind the rain
And the smile can hide all the pain
But you’re down when you’re ridin’ the train that’s takin’ the long way
And I dream of the things I’ll do
With a subway token and a dollar tucked inside my shoe
There’ll be a load of compromisin’
On the road to my horizon
But I’m gonna be where the lights are shinin’ on me
Like a rhinestone cowboy
Riding out on a horse in a star-spangled rodeo
Rhinestone cowboy
Gettin’ cards and letters from people I don’t even know
And offers comin’ over the phone
Like a rhinestone cowboy
Riding out on a horse in a star-spangled rodeo
Like a rhinestone cowboy
Gettin’ cards and letters from people I don’t even know
Like a rhinestone cowboy