About the song
“Amarillo by Morning” stands as a quintessential piece in the tapestry of country music, its narrative woven with the rugged yet poignant tales of a rodeo cowboy. Originally penned by Terry Stafford and Paul Fraser, the song debuted in 1973 with Terry Stafford’s rendition, characterized by its country-pop flair. However, it was George Strait’s 1982 interpretation that catapulted the song into the echelons of country music greatness, adopting a fiddle-infused Western style that resonated deeply with audiences.
At its heart, “Amarillo by Morning” unfolds through the weary eyes of a rodeo cowboy making his nocturnal journey from San Antonio to Amarillo, bound for a county fair awaiting him at dawn. The lyrics paint a portrait of resilience amidst hardship, recounting divorces, broken bones, and financial struggles inherent to his rugged lifestyle. Yet, amidst these trials, the cowboy finds solace and freedom in his chosen path: “I ain’t rich, but Lord, I’m free.”
The genesis of the song stems from Stafford’s own experiences, inspired after performing at a rodeo in San Antonio and subsequently driving back home to Amarillo, Texas. The song’s creation, spurred by a title idea from a FedEx commercial, unfolded swiftly, cementing its place as a testament to the enduring spirit of the American West.
George Strait’s rendition, featured on his 1982 album *Strait from the Heart*, transformed the song into an anthem for cowboy culture, emphasizing its fiddle-driven melody and Strait’s distinct vocal delivery. The single’s release in 1983 marked a significant milestone, propelling it to number four on the Billboard Country chart and solidifying its status as one of Strait’s signature pieces.
Over the years, “Amarillo by Morning” has garnered acclaim not only for its musical prowess but also for its emotive storytelling. It has consistently appeared on lists celebrating the best of country music, with Rolling Stone recently ranking it among the top ten greatest country songs of all time. Its impact extends beyond music, having been played during space missions in tribute to Amarillo-born astronaut Rick Husband, underscoring its enduring cultural significance.
In essence, “Amarillo by Morning” transcends its origins as a mere song, encapsulating the indomitable spirit of the American cowboy and resonating with anyone who appreciates tales of resilience, freedom, and the enduring allure of the open road.
Video
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