About the song
Chris LeDoux’s “Stampede” is a captivating anthem that perfectly encapsulates the rugged spirit and adventurous soul of the American West. Released in 1982, this track is a standout piece from LeDoux’s album of the same name, Stampede, which holds a special place in the hearts of country music enthusiasts and Western culture aficionados.
Chris LeDoux, a renowned figure in the world of country and rodeo, was celebrated for his authentic storytelling and ability to bring the cowboy experience to life through music. “Stampede” is a prime example of his unique talent, blending his deep, resonant voice with lyrics that evoke the thrill of the rodeo and the freedom of the open range. The song’s energetic rhythm and vivid imagery transport listeners to a time and place where life was defined by the raw and exhilarating experiences of the cowboy lifestyle.
The song “Stampede” was released as a single in 1982 and quickly garnered attention for its spirited portrayal of rodeo life. Although it didn’t reach the top of the mainstream charts, it achieved considerable success within the country music community and has remained a beloved track among LeDoux’s fans. The album Stampede also contributed to solidifying Chris LeDoux’s reputation as a pioneer in country music who stayed true to his roots.
In terms of accolades, Chris LeDoux’s work, including “Stampede,” earned him recognition from various industry groups and a devoted following. While the song itself did not receive major mainstream awards, LeDoux’s influence on country music and rodeo culture has been widely acknowledged, and he has been celebrated for his contributions to both fields.
Listening to “Stampede” allows one to experience the essence of Chris LeDoux’s artistry, offering a vivid depiction of cowboy life and a tribute to the untamed spirit of the West. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to capture the excitement and challenges of rodeo life, delivered through LeDoux’s unmistakable voice and heartfelt performance.
Video
Lyrics
We made camp along the river
Watch the cattle
As they bend down
Back at the wagons
Right after supper
Spread the bed rolls
On the ground
Me an willie
We took the night guard
And the sage
Never smelled so sweet
The prairie moon
Was blazin silver
No chance tonight
For stampede
We rode off yonder
In the distance
Towards the mountains
There in the west
Then I see lightening
And I hear thunder
My mind is weary I could use some rest
Then all at once
The wind shifts directions
The clouds roll in
Behind the tumble weeds
These longhorn cattle
Are gettin restless
God help us all
If they stampede
Smell the rain
And hear the thunder
The midnight sky
Turns balck as death
Lightening crashes
Smell the sulfur
It’s rank and strong
As satan’s breath
The cattle rise up
And go around
I steer my pony
On to take a lead
And across the heard
I can hear willie yellin
Hey stampede
Dust clouds ride
As the rain falls
They mix together
Turn the air to mud
I feel the longhorns
Brush against me
And I can feel the demons
Racin through my blood
And all at once
My pony stumbles
We hit the ground
And I rise
Up to my knees
And flash a light
I can see the cattle comin
Lord I know
I’m gonna die
In this stampede
Then I wait
And I look around
I’m in my bed roll
And I;m layin on the ground
Over there’s a wagon
And there’s the campfire
I was only dreamin
But what’s that sound
Then I feel the earth
Tremble beneath me
As the midnight sky
Begins to bleed
And from the blackness
I can hear willie yellin
Hey stampede