About the song
Released in 1959, “My Rifle, My Pony & Me / Cindy” is a memorable duet featuring the talents of Dean Martin and Ricky Nelson. This song holds a special place in the history of American music, bringing together two iconic figures of the era in a delightful blend of vocal harmony and nostalgic charm.
The song “My Rifle, My Pony & Me” was originally featured in the soundtrack of the film *Rio Bravo*, in which both Martin and Nelson appeared. The film, a classic Western directed by Howard Hawks, starred John Wayne, and its music contributed significantly to its appeal. The song itself is a reflective piece, highlighting the solitary life of a cowboy with a sense of longing and camaraderie. Martin and Nelson’s performance of this song captures the essence of the Western spirit with a smooth and engaging delivery.
The second part of the duet, “Cindy,” is a lively and upbeat tune that complements the more somber tone of “My Rifle, My Pony & Me.” The song “Cindy” adds a playful element to the duo’s performance, showcasing their versatility and ability to entertain with a range of emotions. The juxtaposition of the two songs in this single creates a well-rounded listening experience, blending the Western theme with a touch of lightheartedness.
Dean Martin, known for his rich, velvety voice and charismatic presence, and Ricky Nelson, celebrated for his youthful charm and smooth vocal style, together create a dynamic and engaging performance. Their collaboration on this single is a testament to their chemistry as performers and their ability to captivate audiences with their music.
The release of “My Rifle, My Pony & Me / Cindy” was well-received, resonating with fans of both artists and contributing to their ongoing popularity. The single exemplifies the charm and talent of Martin and Nelson, making it a cherished piece in the American music landscape.
In summary, “My Rifle, My Pony & Me / Cindy” is a classic duet that showcases the exceptional talents of Dean Martin and Ricky Nelson. The combination of their distinct voices and the timeless appeal of the songs make this single a beloved part of music history, reflecting the enduring popularity of both artists and their contributions to the music of their time.
Video
Lyrics
The sun is sinking in the west
The cattle go down to the stream
The redwing settles in the nest
It’s time for a cowboy to dream
Purple light in the canyons
That’s where I long to be
With my three good companions
Just my rifle, pony and me
Gonna hang (gonna hang) my sombrero (my sombrero)
On the limb (on the limb) of a tree (of a tree)
Coming home (coming home) sweetheart darling (sweetheart darling)
Just my rifle, pony and me
Just my rifle, my pony and me
(Whippoorwill in the willow
Sings a sweet melody
Riding to Amarillo)
Just my rifle, pony and me
No more cows (no more cows) to be roping (to be roping)
No more strays will I see
Round the bend (round the bend) she’ll be waiting (she’ll be waiting)
For my rifle, pony and me
For my rifle, my pony and me