Introduction:
Cow Town, a delightful ode to small-town Texas life, was released in 1986. The song found its place on George Strait’s seventh studio album, simply titled #7. Cow Town is a prime example of the country music genre, showcasing the signature elements that have made Strait a country music legend.
The songwriter behind Cow Town is actually a collaborative effort between country music veterans Hal Burns and Tex Ritter. Burns, a Nashville Songwriters Hall of Famer, boasts a long list of songwriting credits for country stars like Conway Twitty and Loretta Lynn. Ritter, a true country icon whose career spanned over four decades, was known not only for his songwriting but also for his acting in Western films. Cow Town perfectly encapsulates the spirit Ritter embodied in his music career, celebrating the warmth and hospitality of small-town communities.
Cow Town was produced by another country music heavyweight, Jimmy Bowen. Bowen, throughout his career, played a key role in shaping the careers of numerous country artists, including Strait. Under Bowen’s production, Cow Town took on a signature George Strait sound, featuring the easygoing rhythm and straightforward instrumentation** characteristic of Strait’s music.
Cow Town was a commercial success upon release. The song reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and remained there for four weeks**. This placement on the charts is a significant achievement, showcasing the song’s ability to resonate with a wide country music audience. Cow Town’s popularity continued throughout 1989, ranking number two on Billboard’s Hot Country Singles chart for that year.
The enduring popularity of Cow Town can be attributed to several factors. First, the song’s upbeat tempo and infectious melody create a sense of joy and lightheartedness that is undeniably inviting. Second, the lyrics paint a vivid picture of a welcoming Texas town**, celebrating the close-knit community** and friendly atmosphere** that small towns often embody. Finally, George Strait’s distinctive vocals deliver the song with his signature charm and conviction**, further solidifying Cow Town’s place as a cherished country classic.
Video:
Lyrics:
C’mon along and we’ll go downTo a place in Texas called Cow TownYou’ll never meet a stranger thereEverybody knows if you’re in town
They’ll meet you with a smile and a‘Howdy, how you all?’ and just a little whileYou’ll get that Texas drawlThe hats are wide, and the boots are brownYou’ll just love this place called Cow Town
No matter where I may wonderNo matter where I may roamThere’s a place way down yonderI’m goin’ there and make it my home
C’mon along and we’ll go downTo a place in Texas called Cow TownYou’ll never meet a stranger thereEverybody knows if you’re in town
They’ll meet you with a smile and a‘Howdy, how you all?’ and just a little whileYou’ll get that Texas drawlThe hats are wide, and the boots are brownYou’ll just love this place called Cow Town
You’ll just love this place called Cow Town