About the song
In the vast landscape of country music, certain songs transcend mere entertainment, becoming anthems that resonate with the deepest longings of the human spirit. Toby Keith’s “Should’ve Been a Cowboy” is undoubtedly one such masterpiece, a timeless ballad that speaks to the universal yearning for freedom, adventure, and the untamed spirit of the American West.
Released in 1993, this iconic track catapulted Keith to superstardom, establishing him as one of the most influential voices in contemporary country music. But its appeal extends far beyond the realm of genre enthusiasts, striking a chord with anyone who has ever dreamed of a life less ordinary.
At its core, “Should’ve Been a Cowboy” is a celebration of the cowboy ideal, a romanticized vision of a life lived on one’s own terms, unbound by the constraints of modern society. Keith’s evocative lyrics paint a vivid portrait of this idyllic existence, where vast open spaces, untamed horses, and the thrill of the unknown reign supreme.
But the song’s enduring popularity lies not only in its captivating imagery but also in its ability to tap into a deeper sense of nostalgia and longing. For many, the cowboy represents a bygone era, a time when life was simpler, more authentic, and more closely connected to the natural world.
In an age of increasing urbanization and technological advancement, “Should’ve Been a Cowboy” serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring allure of the frontier spirit. It speaks to our innate desire for adventure, our yearning for a life of purpose and meaning, and our longing for a connection to something larger than ourselves.
As Keith himself once said, “The cowboy is a symbol of freedom, independence, and the American way of life.” And in this timeless anthem, he has captured the essence of that spirit, creating a musical legacy that will continue to resonate with generations to come.
So, whether you’re a lifelong country music fan or simply someone who appreciates a well-crafted song, I invite you to immerse yourself in the captivating world of “Should’ve Been a Cowboy.” Let its evocative lyrics and soaring melodies transport you to a place where the spirit of the West still reigns supreme, and where the dreams of freedom and adventure still burn bright.
Video
Lyrics
I bet you’ve never heard ol’ Marshal Dillon say
Miss Kitty, have you ever thought of runnin’ away?
Settlin’ down, would you marry me
If I asked you twice and begged you, pretty please?
She’d have said, “Yes”, in a New York minute
They never tied the knot, his heart wasn’t in it
He just stole a kiss as he rode away
He never hung his hat up at Kitty’s place
I should’ve been a cowboy
I should’ve learned to rope and ride
Wearin’ my six-shooter, ridin’ my pony on a cattle drive
Stealin’ the young girls’ hearts
Just like Gene and Roy
Singin’ those campfire songs
Woah, I should’ve been a cowboy
I might of had a sidekick with a funny name
Runnin’ wild through the hills chasin’ Jesse James
Ending up on the brink of danger
Ridin’ shotgun for the Texas Rangers
Go west young man, haven’t you been told?
California’s full of whiskey, women and gold
Sleepin’ 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
Wearin’ my six-shooter, ridin’ my pony on a cattle drive
Stealin’ the young girls’ hearts
Just like Gene and Roy
Singin’ those campfire songs
Woah, I should’ve been a cowboy
I should’ve been a cowboy
I should’ve learned to rope and ride
I’d be wearin’ my six-shooter, ridin’ my pony on a cattle drive
Stealin’ the young girls’ hearts
Just like Gene and Roy
Singin’ those campfire songs
Woah, I should’ve been a cowboy
Yeah, I should’ve been a cowboy
I should’ve been a cowboy
