Introduction:
“Amarillo by Morning” is a classic country song that narrates the life of a rodeo cowboy journeying from San Antonio to Amarillo, Texas. Co-written by Terry Stafford and Paul Fraser, the song was inspired by Stafford’s experiences performing at a rodeo in San Antonio and his subsequent drive back to his home in Amarillo. The title phrase was reportedly inspired by a commercial Stafford saw, which mentioned delivering packages to places like Amarillo by the next morning.
Stafford first recorded the song in 1973, releasing it as a single that achieved modest success, peaking at No. 31 on the Billboard Country chart.The song’s vivid portrayal of the hardships and freedoms of a cowboy’s life resonated with listeners, capturing the essence of the American West.
In 1982, George Strait included “Amarillo by Morning” on his album “Strait from the Heart.” Released as a single in 1983, Strait’s rendition became one of his signature songs, reaching No. 4 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart.Strait’s interpretation, characterized by a fiddle-driven arrangement and his smooth vocals, brought a neotraditionalist sound to the forefront of country music, emphasizing traditional instrumentation and storytelling.
The song has been covered by various artists over the years, including Chris LeDoux and Asleep at the Wheel, each bringing their unique style to the timeless narrative.Its enduring popularity is evident, as it was named the No. 12 country song of all time by Country Music Television in 2004 and was selected by the Western Writers of America as one of the Top 100 Western songs of all time.
“Amarillo by Morning” remains a staple in George Strait’s live performances and continues to be celebrated for its authentic depiction of the cowboy lifestyle. Its legacy endures as a testament to the song’s ability to capture the spirit of resilience and freedom inherent in the pursuit of one’s passions, despite the accompanying hardships.