About the song
“This Ol’ Cowboy” is a poignant testament to The Marshall Tucker Band’s ability to blend Southern rock with heartfelt storytelling. Released in 1977 as part of their album Carrying On, this song captures the essence of the band’s unique style and remains a beloved classic in their discography.
The song offers a reflective look into the life of a cowboy, exploring the ups and downs of a life lived on the open range. The lyrics are rich with imagery and emotion, painting a vivid picture of the cowboy’s experiences. This narrative depth, combined with the band’s signature sound, makes “This Ol’ Cowboy” a standout track in their catalog.
“This Ol’ Cowboy” achieved notable commercial success, reaching No. 27 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. This success further cemented The Marshall Tucker Band’s status as a prominent force in the country and Southern rock scenes. The album Carrying On, from which the song originates, was well-received and contributed to the band’s continued success during the late 1970s.
The song’s engaging melody and reflective lyrics showcase the band’s skill in creating music that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. “This Ol’ Cowboy” exemplifies The Marshall Tucker Band’s ability to blend meaningful storytelling with their distinctive Southern rock sound.
In addition to its chart performance, “This Ol’ Cowboy” has been celebrated for its contribution to the Southern rock genre and its portrayal of cowboy life, a recurring theme in the band’s music. The track remains a favorite among longtime fans and is often highlighted in discussions of the band’s most memorable songs.
Overall, “This Ol’ Cowboy” is a powerful example of The Marshall Tucker Band’s ability to weave compelling stories into their music. Its enduring appeal and significant role in the band’s musical legacy ensure that it remains a cherished classic in their extensive catalog.
Video
Lyrics
Well I’m sittin’ down in San Anton’
Waiting on an eight o’clock train
My woman left me here last night
Things ain’t been quite the same
I gotta get back to Dallas
And tie up a few loose ends
I’m gonna work a week make a hundred dollars
Aw and hit the road again
So I don’t want you to think
That you’re the first one
To leave me out here on my own
Cause this ain’t gonna be the first time
This ol’ cowboy spent the night alone
Now honey I’ve been a fool but a bigger fool
I can’t remember when I’ve been
Just to open up my heart
And let you walk right in
Now there’s one thing in this life
Ain’t hard for me to do
That’s as soon as I kiss the lips of another woman
I’m gonna forget all about you
So I don’t want you to think
That you’re the first one
To leave me out here on my own
No this ain’t gonna be the first time
This ol’ cowboy spent the night alone
If you wrote all the woman’s names down I know
And let me pick one out
I don’t think there’d be one in the whole bunch
Aw I’d give a hoot about
So I don’t want you to think
That you’re the first one
To leave this ol’ boy out here on his own
Cause this ain’t gonna be the first time
This ol’ cowboy spent the night alone
No this ain’t gonna be the first time
This ol’ cowboy spent the night alone