19 Best Songs about Cowboys – Time to Saddle Up!

Songs about cowboys have been a staple of American music for decades, dating back to the early days of Western films and television shows. These songs celebrate the rugged independence, bravery, and romanticism of the cowboy way of life, often using vivid imagery and storytelling to transport listeners to the dusty plains and wide-open spaces of the American West.

From classic country ballads to hard rock anthems, these songs have become an enduring part of American culture, inspiring countless artists and fans alike. Many of these songs capture the timeless appeal of the cowboy mythos, evoking images of lone riders, dusty trails, and vast, untamed landscapes. Some celebrate the hard work, honesty, and dedication that are central to cowboy culture, while others focus on the romance and adventure of the cowboy lifestyle.

Whether sung by country legends like Marty Robbins and Willie Nelson, or by rock icons like Bon Jovi and Thin Lizzy, these songs have become beloved classics, resonating with audiences around the world.

In this collection of songs about cowboys, we’ll explore some of the most iconic and influential tracks in the genre, from timeless classics to modern hits. These songs showcase the enduring legacy of the cowboy way of life, and the enduring appeal of its ideals and values, as they continue to inspire new generations of fans and artists alike.

1.Cowboy Casanova – Carrie Underwood

“Cowboy Casanova” is a powerful and energetic country-pop song by American singer Carrie Underwood. The song features a strong beat and catchy chorus that will have you tapping your feet and singing along. The lyrics are about a woman warning other women about a smooth-talking, charming cowboy who is only interested in short-term flings and will never settle down. Underwood’s vocals are commanding and confident, delivering the message with just the right amount of sass and attitude. The music video for the song features Underwood in a variety of outfits, including a bold red dress and a leather jacket, performing in front of a backdrop of flashing lights and dancing cowboys. Overall, “Cowboy Casanova” is a fun and empowering song that showcases Underwood’s talent and charisma.

2.Should’ve Been a Cowboy – Toby Keith

“Should’ve Been a Cowboy” is a classic country song by American singer Toby Keith, and is considered by many to be one of his signature songs. The song is a nostalgic ode to the American West and the cowboy lifestyle, with lyrics about riding horses, chasing outlaws, and living life on the open range. Keith’s vocals are smooth and easygoing, perfectly capturing the laid-back spirit of the song. The melody is catchy and memorable, with a simple yet effective arrangement featuring guitar, drums, and twangy steel guitar. The music video for the song features Keith in a cowboy hat and boots, performing in front of a backdrop of sweeping Western vistas and galloping horses. “Should’ve Been a Cowboy” is a timeless classic that celebrates the spirit of the American West and the enduring appeal of the cowboy way of life.

3.El Paso – Marty Robbins

“El Paso” is a classic country ballad by American singer Marty Robbins. The song tells the story of a cowboy who falls in love with a beautiful Mexican woman named Felina in the town of El Paso, Texas. The song’s haunting melody and evocative lyrics create a vivid sense of place and atmosphere, transporting the listener to the dusty streets and desert landscapes of the American Southwest. Robbins’ vocals are emotional and heartfelt, conveying the deep sense of love and longing felt by the cowboy protagonist. The song’s climactic finale, in which the cowboy is killed by a jealous rival, is a powerful and tragic moment that has resonated with listeners for generations.

4.Cowboy Take Me Away – The Chicks

“Cowboy Take Me Away” is a sweet and romantic country-pop song by American trio The Chicks (formerly known as the Dixie Chicks). The song’s gentle melody and simple arrangement create a dreamy, atmospheric quality that perfectly captures the sense of escape and freedom that the cowboy represents. The lyrics are about a woman who longs to escape from the pressures of modern life and be swept away by a cowboy who embodies a simpler, more carefree way of living. The Chicks’ harmonies are ethereal and beautiful, perfectly capturing the song’s romantic and dreamy mood. The music video for the song features the band performing in a beautiful natural setting, surrounded by mountains and fields of wildflowers. “Cowboy Take Me Away” is a lovely and uplifting song that celebrates the beauty and simplicity of life on the open range.

5.Mammas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys – Waylon Jennings & Willie Nelson

“Mammas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys” is a classic country song by Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson. The song is a cautionary tale that advises mothers not to let their sons pursue a career as cowboys, due to the hard and dangerous nature of the lifestyle. The song’s upbeat melody and catchy chorus have made it a beloved classic of the country genre, and the combination of Jennings and Nelson’s distinctive voices is a treat for fans of both artists. The song’s tongue-in-cheek lyrics, which poke fun at the cowboy stereotype while still celebrating its appeal, have made it a favorite of audiences of all ages.

6.Rhinestone Cowboy – Glen Campbell

“Rhinestone Cowboy” is a classic country-pop song by American singer Glen Campbell. The song tells the story of a struggling musician who dreams of making it big in Hollywood, and who adopts the flashy, glitzy style of the “rhinestone cowboy” in order to stand out from the crowd. The song’s soaring melody and lush orchestration have made it an enduring classic of the genre, and Campbell’s smooth vocals perfectly capture the sense of ambition and determination at the heart of the song. The song’s catchy chorus, which features the memorable line “I’m a rhinestone cowboy, riding out on a horse in a star-spangled rodeo”, has made it a favorite of fans all over the world. The music video for the song features Campbell performing in a variety of flashy, rhinestone-studded outfits, surrounded by a backdrop of glittering lights and spinning disco balls. “Rhinestone Cowboy” is a timeless classic that celebrates the glamour and glitz of the entertainment industry, while still remaining true to its roots in the country genre.

7.The Cowboy Rides Away – George Strait

“The Cowboy Rides Away” is a classic country ballad by American singer George Strait. The song tells the story of a cowboy who has lived a full and adventurous life, but who now realizes that it’s time to move on and say goodbye to the world he loves. The song’s poignant melody and heartfelt lyrics create a bittersweet mood that perfectly captures the sense of loss and nostalgia felt by the protagonist. Strait’s vocals are emotional and powerful, conveying the sense of regret and resignation that the cowboy feels as he prepares to ride off into the sunset. The song’s chorus, which repeats the line “The cowboy rides away”, has become a beloved catchphrase among fans of Strait and the country genre as a whole.

8.The Cowboy in Me – Tim McGraw

“The Cowboy in Me” is a country rock song by American singer Tim McGraw. The song’s lyrics explore the idea that, no matter how successful or accomplished a person may be, there’s always a part of them that remains true to their roots and their identity. The song’s catchy melody and driving rhythm create a sense of energy and excitement that perfectly captures the rebellious spirit of the cowboy protagonist. McGraw’s vocals are confident and dynamic, conveying the sense of pride and self-assurance that the cowboy feels in his own identity. The song’s music video features McGraw performing in a variety of rugged, western-inspired outfits, surrounded by images of horses, open fields, and wide-open skies. “The Cowboy in Me” is a fun and uplifting song that celebrates the resilience and individuality of the cowboy spirit.

9.Where Have All the Cowboys Gone? – Paula Cole

“Where Have All the Cowboys Gone?” is a Grammy-nominated alternative rock song by American singer-songwriter Paula Cole. The song’s lyrics address the changing roles of men and women in society, and the pressure placed on women to conform to traditional gender roles. The song’s melancholic melody and haunting vocals create a sense of introspection and nostalgia, as Cole reflects on the disappearance of the strong, independent cowboys of the past. The song’s memorable chorus, which features the repeated line “Where is my John Wayne?”, has become an iconic anthem of female empowerment and rebellion.

10.Save a Horse (Ride a Cowboy) – Big & Rich

“Save a Horse (Ride a Cowboy)” is a country rap song by American duo Big & Rich. The song’s lyrics are playful and irreverent, celebrating the wild and carefree nature of the cowboy lifestyle. The song’s infectious melody and energetic rhythm create a sense of excitement and joy, as Big & Rich encourage listeners to let loose and enjoy the ride. The song’s music video features the duo performing in a variety of colorful, western-themed outfits, surrounded by dancers and flashing lights. “Save a Horse (Ride a Cowboy)” is a fun and raucous celebration of the cowboy spirit, and has become a fan favorite at country concerts and events around the world.

11.Wanted Dead or Alive – Bon Jovi

“Wanted Dead or Alive” is a classic rock song by American band Bon Jovi. The song’s lyrics pay homage to the romanticized image of the cowboy outlaw, and the sense of adventure and danger that comes with living on the edge. The song’s powerful melody and driving guitar riffs create a sense of urgency and excitement, as lead singer Jon Bon Jovi proclaims his willingness to “ride the night wind” and seek out new adventures. The song’s memorable chorus, which features the repeated line “I’m a cowboy, on a steel horse I ride”, has become an iconic anthem of rock and roll rebellion and individuality.

12.Space Cowboy – Kacey Musgraves

“Space Cowboy” is a country ballad by American singer-songwriter Kacey Musgraves. The song’s lyrics address the pain and sadness of a failed relationship, as Musgraves reflects on the emotional distance that has grown between her and her partner. The song’s gentle melody and Musgraves’ soulful vocals create a sense of vulnerability and introspection, as she acknowledges the inevitability of the end of the relationship. The song’s title and repeated refrain of “You can have your space, cowboy” create a powerful image of separation and distance, and have become a popular catchphrase among Musgraves’ fans. “Space Cowboy” is a poignant and heartfelt song that speaks to the universal experience of heartbreak and loss.

13.I Wanna Be a Cowboy – Boys Don’t Cry

“I Wanna Be a Cowboy” is a new wave song by British band Boys Don’t Cry. The song’s lyrics are playful and irreverent, as lead singer Nick Richards proclaims his desire to leave behind the trappings of modern life and live out his cowboy fantasies. The song’s catchy melody and synth-driven sound create a sense of fun and energy, as Richards sings about riding the range and carrying a six-shooter. The song’s memorable chorus, which features the repeated line “I wanna be a cowboy, and you can be my cowgirl”, has become a cult classic of the 1980s new wave era, and is still popular among fans of the genre today.

14.Ain’t Always The Cowboy – Jon Pardi

“Ain’t Always the Cowboy” is a country ballad by American singer-songwriter Jon Pardi. The song’s lyrics address the complexities of modern relationships, and the challenges faced by those who struggle to balance their desire for freedom and independence with their need for love and companionship. The song’s gentle melody and Pardi’s soulful vocals create a sense of empathy and understanding, as he sings about the pain and regret that often come with the end of a relationship. The song’s title and repeated refrain of “It ain’t always the cowboy that rides away” create a powerful image of resilience and strength, and have become a popular catchphrase among Pardi’s fans. “Ain’t Always the Cowboy” is a poignant and heartfelt song that speaks to the universal experience of love and loss.

15.Cowboy Song – Thin Lizzy

“Cowboy Song” is a rock ballad by Irish band Thin Lizzy. The song’s lyrics are evocative and poetic, as lead singer Phil Lynott sings about the romanticized image of the cowboy as a lone wanderer and hero. The song’s opening riff and Lynott’s powerful vocals create a sense of energy and urgency, as the band builds to the explosive chorus. The song’s middle section features a spoken-word monologue by Lynott, in which he recites a poem that further explores the themes of the song. “Cowboy Song” is a classic rock anthem that has become a staple of Thin Lizzy’s live performances, and is widely regarded as one of the band’s best songs.

16.I Want to Be a Cowboy’s Sweetheart – Patsy Montana

“I Want to Be a Cowboy’s Sweetheart” is a Western swing song by American singer Patsy Montana. The song’s lyrics are playful and flirtatious, as Montana sings about her desire to capture the heart of a handsome cowboy. The song’s catchy melody and Montana’s yodeling create a sense of joy and exuberance, as she sings about her love of the Western lifestyle. The song’s refrain of “I want to be a cowboy’s sweetheart, I want to learn to rope and ride” has become an iconic phrase associated with the Western genre, and has inspired countless women to pursue their own cowboy dreams. “I Want to Be a Cowboy’s Sweetheart” is a classic example of Western swing music, and a testament to Montana’s enduring legacy as one of the pioneering women of country music.

17.Cowboy Logic – Michael Martin Murphey

“Cowboy Logic” is a song by American singer-songwriter Michael Martin Murphey, released in 1983. The song’s lyrics celebrate the traditional values of the cowboy way of life, including hard work, honesty, and respect for the land. Murphey’s warm, inviting vocals and the song’s upbeat melody create a sense of optimism and hope, as he sings about the enduring spirit of the American West. “Cowboy Logic” has become a beloved anthem of the Western lifestyle, and has inspired countless people to embrace the values of the cowboy way.

18.Whatcha Gonna Do With a Cowboy – Chris LeDoux

“Whatcha Gonna Do With a Cowboy” is a country song by American singer-songwriter Chris LeDoux, released in 1992. The song’s lyrics are playful and flirtatious, as LeDoux sings about his love of the cowboy lifestyle and his desire to find a woman who shares his passion. The song’s catchy melody and LeDoux’s laid-back vocals create a sense of fun and enjoyment, as he sings about the joys of rodeo and cowboy culture. “Whatcha Gonna Do With a Cowboy” is a classic example of LeDoux’s signature blend of country music and Western lifestyle, and has become a fan favorite.

19.Cowgirls Don’t Cry – Brooks & Dunn

“Cowgirls Don’t Cry” is a country song by American duo Brooks & Dunn, released in 2008. The song’s lyrics celebrate the strength and resilience of cowgirls, and encourage them to keep pushing forward in the face of adversity. The song’s powerful chorus, featuring guest vocals by country singer Reba McEntire, has become an anthem of empowerment for women in the Western community. The song’s uplifting message and Brooks & Dunn’s signature blend of country and rock create a sense of energy and enthusiasm, as they celebrate the enduring spirit of the cowgirl. “Cowgirls Don’t Cry” is a modern classic of Western-themed country music, and a testament to the enduring legacy of Brooks & Dunn as one of the most successful acts in the genre’s history.