Relive the Cowboy Era in “Should’ve Been A Cowboy” by Toby Keith
On February 12, 1993, Toby Keith introduced the world to “Should’ve Been a Cowboy” as his inaugural single, marking the start of his solo career with his self-titled first album. In just a short span, the track soared to the top of both the Billboard Hot Country Songs and the Canadian RPM Country Tracks charts, and even made a slight impression on the Billboard Hot 100, reaching No. 93.
What set “Should’ve Been a Cowboy” apart was its overwhelming popularity on country radio, amassing over three million spins and clinching the title of the most-played country tune of the 1990s.
The song has also found a home at Oklahoma State University, becoming an anthem played after sporting events, echoing through the stadium or arena as crowds make their way out.
Digging into the Lyrics Toby Keith, the craftsman behind “Should’ve Been a Cowboy,” weaves a narrative that pays homage to the enchanting allure of the cowboy era, inspired by the timeless Westerns that have captivated audiences for generations. The song nods to the enduring tales of the Wild West, including the storied adventures portrayed in the iconic series Gunsmoke, where Marshal Dillon’s romantic endeavors with Miss Kitty remain unresolved.
The chorus of the song salutes legendary figures like Gene Autry and Roy Rogers, while also embracing the quintessential elements of the cowboy lifestyle, from the legendary six-shooters to the exhilarating cattle drives depicted in classic Western cinema.
Through the lyrics, listeners are invited to imagine a life filled with daring escapades reminiscent of those shared by Tonto or Gordito, venturing towards the promise of California, and embarking on thrilling pursuits like tracking the infamous Jesse James or riding with the Texas Rangers, all emblematic of the cherished Wild West narrative.
Embrace the spirit of adventure and experience Toby Keith’s homage to the cowboy way of life with “Should’ve Been a Cowboy” – a true anthem for the wanderlust soul!
