About the song
Amarillo by Morning is a country song written by Terry Stafford and Paul Fraser. It was first recorded by Stafford in 1973, but it became a much bigger hit when George Strait released it in 1983. Strait’s version of the song was the title track of his sixth studio album, and it reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. The song has since become one of Strait’s signature songs, and it is considered a classic of country music.
Background and Recording
“Amarillo by Morning” was written by Terry Stafford and Paul Fraser. Stafford was a country singer-songwriter who had a few minor hits in the 1970s. Fraser was a Canadian songwriter who had written songs for artists such as Chet Atkins and Eddy Arnold.
Stafford recorded the song first in 1973 for his album “Amarillo.” The song did not receive much attention at the time, but it caught the ear of George Strait a few years later. Strait was a rising star in country music at the time, and he was looking for a song to record for his sixth studio album.
Strait recorded “Amarillo by Morning” in 1982. The song was produced by Blake Mevis and released as the album’s lead single. The song was an instant hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. It also crossed over to the pop charts, peaking at number 47 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Success and Legacy
“Amarillo by Morning” was a major success for George Strait. It helped to solidify his status as one of the leading country music artists of the time. The song also won Strait several awards, including the Grammy Award for Best Country Vocal Performance, Male in 1984.
“Amarillo by Morning” has become a classic of country music. It has been covered by many artists, including Willie Nelson, Reba McEntire, and Alan Jackson. The song has also been featured in several films and television shows.
In 2003, “Amarillo by Morning” was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame. The song is considered one of the most important and influential country songs of all time. It is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners today.
The song’s impact on popular culture
“Amarillo by Morning” has had a significant impact on popular culture. The song has been used in several films and television shows, including “Thelma and Louise,” “Dances with Wolves,” and “The Sopranos.” It has also been covered by many artists, including Willie Nelson, Reba McEntire, and Alan Jackson.
The song’s popularity is due in part to its simple, yet evocative lyrics. The song tells the story of a man who is leaving his home in Amarillo, Texas, to head out on the road. He sings about the things he will miss about Amarillo, including his family, friends, and the familiar sights and sounds of the city. However, he also sings about the excitement of starting a new chapter in his life and the freedom of the open road.
“Amarillo by Morning” is a beautiful and moving song that captures the essence of the American West. It is a song about home, family, and the road less traveled. The song’s simple lyrics and Strait’s warm, expressive vocals make it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners today.