About the song
“Amarillo by Morning” is a classic country song that resonates deeply with fans of the genre. Written by Terry Stafford and Paul Fraser, the song was first recorded by Stafford in 1973 and saw modest success. However, it gained widespread recognition when Texas country legend George Strait released his rendition in 1982.
The song narrates the story of a rodeo cowboy traveling from San Antonio to Amarillo for a county fair that begins the next morning. The lyrics reflect the struggles and sacrifices of a rodeo life, including experiences of divorce, broken bones, and financial hardship. Despite these challenges, the cowboy expresses a sense of freedom and contentment with his life, famously stating, “I ain’t rich / But Lord, I’m free.” This sentiment captures the essence of the rodeo lifestyle, blending hardship with a deep-seated love for the open road and the thrill of competition.
Terry Stafford, inspired by a late-night drive back to his home in Amarillo, Texas, initially recorded the song for his 1973 album *Say, Has Anybody Seen My Sweet Gypsy Rose*. While Stafford’s version was a country pop tune, it was George Strait’s 1982 rendition that transformed the song into a country staple. Strait’s interpretation, featured on his album *Strait from the Heart*, highlighted his signature fiddle-based Western style and became one of his defining hits.
Strait’s version of “Amarillo by Morning” achieved notable chart success, reaching number 4 on the Billboard Country chart in 1983. The song is frequently cited as one of Strait’s best, appearing on various lists of top country songs. Its legacy is cemented by its inclusion in the top country song rankings and its regular play at rodeos, embodying the spirit of country music and rodeo life.
The song has been covered by many artists, including rodeo champion Chris LeDoux and Brazilian singer Zé Ramalho, each bringing their unique flair to the classic. Its enduring appeal and influence highlight “Amarillo by Morning” as a significant contribution to country music, celebrated for both its evocative storytelling and its representation of the rodeo cowboy’s life.
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