Unveiling the Tale: “Don’t Call Him a Cowboy”
(written by Debbie Hupp, Johnny MacRae & Bob Morrison)
Conway Twitty (#1, 1985)
The mesmerizing journey behind Conway Twitty’s chart-topping hit, “Don’t Call Him a Cowboy,” begins with songwriter Johnny MacRae. It was during the twilight years of his 15-year career in the Navy that MacRae found his passion for music. Serendipity struck when a shipmate connected him with KFWB Radio in Los Angeles, leading MacRae to secure his first recording and publishing contracts.
Although his own records struggled to make a significant impact in the Los Angeles music scene, MacRae found unexpected success in an entirely different genre. He joined Bobby “Boris” Pickett’s novelty pop sensation, “Monster Mash,” where he played an instrumental role in the “Crypt-Kickers” band. Using unconventional tools like electric razors, ratchet wrenches, and chains, MacRae created peculiar sound effects that added to the record’s playful charm. The whimsical tune climbed its way to the coveted #1 position on Billboard’s Hot 100 pop chart, reigning supreme for two weeks in 1962.
In the summer of ’63, MacRae made the momentous decision to move to Nashville, hoping to carve a path in country music. However, his journey was fraught with challenges as he hopped from publisher to publisher for nearly a decade, struggling to find the breakthrough he yearned for. It wasn’t until 1972 when MacRae found himself at Combine Music, where he eventually became a vice-president. During his tenure, MacRae not only nurtured the talents of emerging songwriters like Bob DiPiero, John Scott Sherrill, and Pat McManus but also penned several chart-topping country hits himself. One of the notable gems in his repertoire was Conway Twitty’s “I’d Love to Lay You Down,” which soared to the top spot in 1980.
Emboldened by his successes, MacRae ventured into the world of independent publishing in the mid-’80s. It was during this period that he struck gold once again, teaming up with Conway Twitty for another unforgettable collaboration – “Don’t Call Him a Cowboy.” MacRae had initially conceived the infectious chorus during the height of the “Urban Cowboy” craze when cowboy hats and jeans seemed to be the attire du jour. However, he struggled to find the perfect verses to complement the catchy refrain. Frustrated but determined, MacRae sought the assistance of Debbie Hupp, sharing his thoughts and presenting his existing work.
Taking the unfinished draft of “Don’t Call Him a Cowboy” back to her home in Louisville, Debbie immersed herself in the creative process. After days of meticulous crafting, she triumphantly reached out to MacRae with the ideal set of lyrics. To fortify the melody, Bob Morrison lent his expertise, and the pieces of the puzzle fell into place, giving birth to a remarkably captivating song.
With Conway Twitty always embracing the opportunity to ignite controversy through his music, the songwriters knew instantly that “Don’t Call Him a Cowboy” was tailor-made for him. Laden with provocative lyrics and subtle sexual innuendos, it was destined to make waves. And true to their instincts, the song struck a chord with listeners. On June 1, 1985, Conway claimed his rightful place at the pinnacle of the Billboard country singles chart, securing his remarkable 39th (and second-to-last) chart-topping achievement.
The story behind “Don’t Call Him a Cowboy” exemplifies the power of collaboration, persistence, and the uncanny ability to tap into the pulse of a generation. It stands as a testament to the artistry of Conway Twitty and the ingenuity of the talented songwriters who crafted a song that defied expectations and became an unforgettable chapter in the country music chronicles.
Artist: Conway Twitty
Released: 1985
Album: Don’t Call Him a Cowboy
Lyrics
So you came from New York city
And you want to see the sights
You heard all about those cowboys
And their crazy Texas nights
I see you’ve got your eye on something
Leaning on the bar
But the toughest ride he’s ever had
Was in his foreign car
So don’t call him a cowboy
Until you’ve seen him ride
‘Cause a Stetson hat and them fancy boots
Don’t tell you what’s inside, no
And if he ain’t good in the saddle
Lord, you won’t be satisfied
So don’t call him a cowboy
Until you’ve seen him ride
He was a Hollywood idea
Of the wild and wooly west
In his French designer blue jeans
And his custom tailored vest
You’re thinkin’ he’s the real thing
But I think you oughta know
He can’t even make it through
A one night rodeo, no
So don’t call him a cowboy
Until you’ve seen him ride
‘Cause a Stetson hat and them fancy boots
Don’t tell you what’s inside, no
And if he ain’t good in the saddle
Lord, you won’t be satisfied
So don’t call him a cowboy
Until you’ve seen him ride
Don’t call him a cowboy
Until you’ve seen him ride
‘Cause a Stetson hat and them fancy boots
Don’t tell you what’s inside, no
And if he ain’t good in the saddle
Lord, you won’t be satisfied
So don’t call him a cowboy
Until you’ve seen him ride
Don’t call him a cowboy
Until you’ve seen him ride
