“The Untold Story Behind George Strait’s Classic Hit ‘Amarillo By Morning'”
George Strait is often referred to as the “King of Country,” and one of his most beloved songs is undoubtedly “Amarillo By Morning.” Released in 1983, this classic tune tells the story of a rodeo cowboy on the road, chasing his dreams and his next paycheck. The song has become an anthem for anyone who has ever had a dream and been willing to work hard to make it come true.
The melody of “Amarillo By Morning” is as iconic as its lyrics. Written by Terry Stafford and Paul Fraser, the song’s upbeat tempo and soaring fiddle solos capture the spirit of the rodeo and the thrill of chasing one’s dreams. Strait’s effortless vocals add to the song’s appeal, making it an instant classic.
But what many people don’t know is the backstory behind the song. According to Strait himself, he first heard the song while on a tour bus with his band. The band’s fiddle player, Joe “Joey” Maphis, played the song for Strait and he immediately knew it was a hit. The band started playing it at their shows, and the rest is history.
The song’s lyrics are also a testament to the hardworking and often unpredictable life of a rodeo cowboy. The narrator of the song is always on the move, from one town to the next, chasing his next rodeo and his next chance at glory. The chorus captures the spirit of perseverance that is necessary to succeed in any field: “Amarillo by morning, up from San Antone / Everything that I got, is just what I’ve got on.”
Today, “Amarillo By Morning” remains one of George Strait’s most iconic songs. It has been covered by countless artists and has become a staple of country radio. Its timeless message of hard work, perseverance, and chasing one’s dreams resonates with listeners of all ages and backgrounds.
In conclusion, “Amarillo By Morning” is not just a hit song, but a testament to the resilience and perseverance that is necessary to succeed in any field. Its catchy melody, inspiring lyrics, and George Strait’s vocal talent have made it a classic that will continue to be celebrated and cherished by generations to come.
Album: Strait from the Heart
Artist: George Strait
Released: 1982
Genre: Country
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
