About the song
Here’s a draft for your introduction:
*”If you’re a fan of classic country music with a rockin’ edge, then you’re in for a treat. Today, we’re going to dive into a timeless piece of American music: “Ghost Riders In the Sky” as performed by the American Outlaws in their 1990 live concert at Nassau Coliseum.
Now, you might be familiar with this song from various interpretations over the years, but the American Outlaws’ version brings a unique energy and intensity to the classic tale. This live recording captures the band at the height of their powers, delivering a performance that is both electrifying and emotionally resonant.
The song itself is a haunting ballad about a cowboy who makes a deal with the devil to become a ghostly rider, forever doomed to roam the night sky. It’s a classic tale of the American West, filled with imagery of deserts, horses, and the supernatural. The American Outlaws’ rendition gives this timeless story a fresh and contemporary feel, while still paying homage to its roots.
One of the things that makes this performance so special is the raw energy and passion of the band members. Their musicianship is top-notch, and their vocals are powerful and emotive. The lead singer’s voice has a gritty, bluesy quality that perfectly suits the song’s subject matter. The band’s tight harmonies and driving rhythm section create a wall of sound that is both powerful and atmospheric.
The live setting of the Nassau Coliseum adds an extra layer of excitement to the performance. The crowd is clearly loving every minute of it, and their energy feeds into the band’s performance. You can almost feel the heat of the stage as you listen to this recording.
If you’re looking for a taste of classic country music with a modern twist, then “Ghost Riders In the Sky” by the American Outlaws is a must-listen. This live recording is a powerful and evocative reminder of why this song has endured for so many years.“*
Video
Lyrics
An old cowboy went riding out
One dark and windy day
Upon a ridge he rested
As he went along his way
When all at once a mighty herd
Of red eyed cows he saw
Plowin’ through the ragged skies
And up the cloudy draw
Their brands were still on fire
And their hooves were made of steel
Their horns were black and shiny
And their hot breath he could feel
A bolt of fear went through him
As they thundered through the sky
For he saw the riders coming hard
And he heard their mournful cry
Yippie-yi-o
Yippie-yi-yay
Ghost riders in the sky
Their faces gaunt
Their eyes were blurred
Their shirts all soaked with sweat
He’s riding hard to catch that herd
But he ain’t caught ’em yet
‘Cause they’ve got to ride forever
On that range up in the sky
On horses snorting fire
As they ride on, hear their cry
As the riders loped on by him
He heard one call his name
‘If you wanna save your soul
From hell a-riding on our range
Then, cowboy, change your ways today
Or with us you will ride
Trying to catch the devil’s herd
Across these endless skies
Yippie-yi-o
Yippie-yi-yay
Ghost riders in the sky
Ghost riders in the sky
Ghost riders in the sky