Introduction:
Should’ve Been A Cowboy is a seminal track in the country music canon, serving as the launchpad for Toby Keith‘s illustrious career. Released in 1993 as the title track of his debut album, the song quickly ascended the charts, solidifying Keith’s status as a rising star in the genre.
A quintessential blend of traditional country and modern sensibilities, “Should’ve Been A Cowboy” resonated deeply with audiences, capturing the essence of longing for a simpler, more adventurous life. The song’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of the cowboy lifestyle, filled with romanticized notions of freedom and independence. While Keith’s smooth vocals and charismatic delivery undoubtedly contributed to the song’s success, its enduring appeal lies in its ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia and escapism.
Produced by Dean Sams, “Should’ve Been A Cowboy” showcased Keith’s songwriting talent and his knack for crafting catchy melodies. The mid-tempo arrangement, combined with steel guitar and fiddle accents, created a classic country sound that perfectly complemented the song’s lyrical content.
The track’s commercial success was undeniable. It topped the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, spending two weeks at number one. Moreover, “Should’ve Been A Cowboy” became a cornerstone of Keith’s live performances, captivating audiences with its energetic and infectious energy. Its popularity extended beyond country music fans, earning the song widespread acclaim and cementing Keith’s position as a major force in the music industry.
In retrospect, “Should’ve Been A Cowboy” stands as more than just a hit song; it’s a cultural touchstone that defined an era and propelled Toby Keith to superstardom. Its impact on country music is immeasurable, as it paved the way for countless artists who followed in Keith’s footsteps.
Video:
Lyrics:
“Should’ve Been A Cowboy”
I bet you’ve never heard old Marshal Dillon say
Miss Kitty have you ever thought of running away
Settling down would you marry me
If I ask you twice and beg you pretty please
She’d’ve said, “Yes” in a New York minute
They never tied the knot
His heart wasn’t in it
He stole a kiss as he rode away
He never hung his hat up at Kitty’s placeI should’ve been a cowboy
I should’ve learned to rope and ride
Wearing my six-shooter riding my pony on a cattle drive
Stealing the young girls’ hearts
Just like Gene and Roy
Singing those campfire songs
I should’ve been a cowboyI might have had a sidekick with a funny name
Running wild through the hills chasing Jesse James
Ending up on the brink of danger
Riding shotgun for the Texas RangersGo west young man, haven’t you been told
California’s full of whiskey, women and gold
Sleeping out all night beneath the desert stars
With a dream in my eye and a prayer in my heartI should’ve been a cowboy
I should’ve learned to rope and ride
Wearing my six-shooter riding my pony on a cattle drive
Stealing the young girls’ hearts
Just like Gene and Roy
Singing those campfire songs
I should’ve been a cowboyI should’ve been a cowboy
I should’ve learned to rope and ride
Wearing my six-shooter riding my pony on a cattle drive
Stealing the young girls’ hearts
Just like Gene and Roy
Singing those campfire songs
I should’ve been a cowboy
I should’ve been a cowboy
I should’ve been a cowboy
I should’ve been a cowboy