Introduction:
“Should’ve Been a Cowboy” is the debut single by American country music artist Toby Keith. Released on February 8, 1993, it was the lead single from his self-titled debut album, Toby Keith. The song quickly became a massive hit and played a significant role in launching Keith’s career as one of country music’s most prominent stars. It is considered one of the most iconic country songs of the 1990s and remains a staple of Keith’s live performances.
The genre of “Should’ve Been a Cowboy” is traditional country with a blend of honky-tonk elements, characterized by its catchy melody and storytelling lyrics. Written by Toby Keith himself, the song tells the story of a man who romanticizes the life of a cowboy, reflecting on how he might have lived differently if he had pursued the rugged, adventurous lifestyle often depicted in Western films and pop culture. The lyrics evoke imagery of the Old West, referencing cowboys, outlaws, and even notable Western icons like Roy Rogers and Gene Autry. Its nostalgic theme resonated with many listeners, contributing to its widespread popularity.
Upon its release, “Should’ve Been a Cowboy” quickly climbed the charts, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. It also made a notable appearance on the Billboard Hot 100, a remarkable achievement for a debut country single at the time. The song’s success helped Toby Keith earn the Top New Male Vocalist award at the 1993 Academy of Country Music Awards and solidified his status as a new force in the country music scene. Over the years, “Should’ve Been a Cowboy” has remained a favorite among country music fans. It has been covered by various artists and was honored with an award from BMI as one of the most-played country songs of the 1990s, with millions of spins on radio stations across the United States. In 2012, the song was recognized for its enduring popularity by being named the most-played country song of the 1990s by Billboard.
Video:
Lyrics:
“Should’ve Been A Cowboy”
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 cowboy
I 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 Rangers
Go 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 heart
I 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 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