About the song
If you’re a fan of country music with a genuine, heartfelt connection to cowboy culture, then you’re in for a treat with Chris LeDoux’s classic, “This Cowboy’s Hat.” Chris LeDoux, a name synonymous with authentic Western storytelling, delivers a song that is as much about preserving tradition as it is about the pride of the cowboy spirit.
Released in 1990, “This Cowboy’s Hat” became an anthem for those who appreciate the simple, yet profound aspects of rural life. In this memorable track, LeDoux’s deep, gravelly voice narrates a story that resonates with anyone who has ever felt a strong sense of heritage and personal pride. The song reflects on the significance of the cowboy hat—not just as a piece of clothing, but as a symbol of identity and respect. Through vivid imagery and engaging lyrics, LeDoux captures the essence of what it means to be a cowboy, highlighting the deep connection between the hat and the man who wears it.
What makes “This Cowboy’s Hat” stand out is not only LeDoux’s genuine delivery but also the way it taps into universal themes of respect and tradition. It’s a tribute to the enduring values of the cowboy way of life, and it’s delivered with a sincerity that is both touching and uplifting. For those who have grown up with the legends of the Wild West or simply have an appreciation for classic country, this song serves as a wonderful reminder of the timeless values that define the cowboy spirit.
As you listen to “This Cowboy’s Hat,” you’ll find yourself transported to a world where the traditions of the past are honored and the simple, unspoken code of respect is cherished. Chris LeDoux’s storytelling prowess shines through, making this song a cherished piece of country music history that continues to inspire and resonate with listeners of all ages.
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Lyrics
Well, I was sittin’ in a coffee shop, just havin’ a cup to pass the time
Swappin’ Rodeo stories, with this ol’ cowboy friend of mine
When some motorcycle riders started snickerin’ in the back
They started pokin’ fun at my friends hat
And one ol’ boy said, “Hey, Tex, where’d you park your horse?”
My friend just pulled his hat down low, but they couldn’t be ignored
One husky fella said, “I think I’ll just rip that hat right off your head”
That’s when my friend turned around, and this is what he said
“You’ll ride a black tornado ‘cross the western sky
You’ll rope an ol’ blue northern, and milk it ’til it’s dry
Bulldog the Mississippi and pin its ears down flat
Long before you take this cowboy’s hat”
He said, “Partner, now this ol’ hat it’s better left alone
You see, it used to be my daddy’s, but last year he passed on
My nephew skinned the rattler that makes up this ol’ hat band
But back in ’69, he died in Vietnam”
“Now the eagle feather was given to me by an Indian friend of mine
But someone ran him down somewhere around that Arizona line
And a real special lady gave me this hat pin
But I don’t know if I’ll ever see her again”
“You’ll ride a black tornado ‘cross the western sky
You’ll rope an ol’ blue northern, and milk it ’til it’s dry
Bulldog the Mississippi, pin its ears down flat
Long before you take this cowboy’s hat”
“Now if your leather jacket means to you what this ol’ hat means to me
Then I guess we understand each other, and we’ll just let it be
But if you still think it’s funny, my back’s against the wall
But if you touch my hat, you gotta fight us all”
Right then I caught a little sadness in that gang leader’s eyes
He turned back to the others, and they all just shuffled on outside
But when my friend turned back towards me, I noticed his ol’ hat brim
Well, it was turned up, in a big ol’ Texas grin
You’ll ride a black tornado ‘cross the western sky
You’ll rope an ol’ blue northern, and milk it ’til it’s dry
Bulldog the Mississippi, pin its ears down flat
Long before you take this cowboy’s hat
You’ll ride a black tornado ‘cross the western sky
You’ll rope an ol’ blue northern, and milk it ’til it’s dry
Bulldog the Mississippi, pin its ears down flat
Long before you take this cowboy’s hat
You’ll ride a black tornado ‘cross the western sky
You’ll rope an ol’ blue northern, and milk it ’til it’s dry