About the song
Chris LeDoux’s song “Riding Fences,” released in 1992, is a compelling piece that beautifully captures the essence of country life and the enduring spirit of the American West. Featured on his album of the same name, this song stands out as a fine example of LeDoux’s exceptional storytelling prowess and his deep connection to cowboy culture. Known for his authentic portrayal of life on the range, LeDoux’s music often resonates deeply with those who have lived or dreamed of the rugged cowboy life.
“Riding Fences” paints a vivid picture of a cowboy’s life spent between the lines of two worlds—the freedom of the open range and the more confining realities of responsibility and duty. The title refers to the act of maintaining and mending fences, which symbolizes the balance and boundaries that define a cowboy’s existence. LeDoux’s lyrics, paired with his distinctive voice and a driving melody, offer a nostalgic yet realistic glimpse into the life of a cowboy who strives to find harmony between his personal desires and his professional obligations.
Upon its release, “Riding Fences” was well-received within the country music community. The song achieved considerable success on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, where it reached number 8, a testament to LeDoux’s popularity and the song’s appeal. The album itself, also titled “Riding Fences,” was praised for its strong collection of tracks that showcased LeDoux’s range as an artist and his ability to convey the cowboy experience with authenticity and heart.
LeDoux’s ability to blend traditional country themes with a personal touch has cemented “Riding Fences” as a memorable and influential piece in his catalog. For fans of country music and the cowboy lifestyle, this song remains a cherished reminder of the challenges and rewards of life on the open range.
Video
Lyrics
Well you don’t see him much on the big screen anymore
The kids don’t ride along with Roy or Gene
And that ain’t really him with all those feathers in his hat
And some frenchman’s name embroidered on his jeans
But he’s still out there ridin’ fences
Still makes his livin’ with his rope
As long as there’s a sunset he’ll keep ridin’ for the brand
You just can’t see him from the road
Well he never learned to two step hell he barely learned to walk
But he’s worn a lot of leather off the tree
He’s had one or two good horses that he counts among his friends
He never drew a breath that wasn’t free
But he’s still out there ridin’ fences
Still makes his livin’ with his rope
As long as there’s a sunset he’ll keep ridin’ for the brand
You just can’t see him from the road
Well he’s tall in the saddle short on the cash
The last to quit the first to buy the beer
Well he’s a knight in leather armor still livin’ by the code
That’s made him what he’s been a hundred years
As long as there’s a sunset he’ll keep ridin’ for the brand
You just can’t see him from the road