About the song
“Amarillo by Morning,” a song synonymous with George Strait and the spirit of the American cowboy, has become a cornerstone of country music. Released in 1982 on Strait’s album “Strait from the Heart,” this track transcended its chart success (#4 on the Billboard Country chart) to become a signature song for the King of Country. But “Amarillo by Morning” is more than just a catchy tune; it’s a vivid portrait of a rodeo cowboy’s life on the road.
Composed by Terry Stafford and Paul Fraser, the song was originally recorded by Stafford in a country pop style. However, it was Strait’s iconic Western rendition, complete with a prominent fiddle, that catapulted the song to fame. The lyrics, sung from the perspective of a weary cowboy traveling from San Antonio to a rodeo in Amarillo, paint a picture of a life filled with hardship – broken bones, divorce, and financial struggles. Yet, despite the challenges, the song celebrates the freedom and independence inherent in the cowboy lifestyle. The iconic line, “I ain’t rich/ But Lord, I’m free,” resonates with listeners who connect with the romanticism of the open road and the pursuit of a passion, even if it comes at a cost.
“Amarillo by Morning” has garnered critical acclaim, consistently appearing on “best of” lists. Rolling Stone ranked it number ten on their 2024 list of the 200 Greatest Country Songs of All Time, a testament to its enduring impact. The song’s influence extends beyond the music industry. Astronaut Rick Husband reportedly used it as a wake-up call during a space mission, and it has become a staple at rodeos, echoing the very world it depicts.
The legacy of “Amarillo by Morning” extends further with numerous covers by artists like Chris LeDoux and Asleep at the Wheel. The song’s themes have resonated across genres, even inspiring a parody by Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood. Whether enjoyed for its catchy melody, relatable lyrics, or evocative imagery, “Amarillo by Morning” continues to captivate listeners and solidify its place as a country music classic.
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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