“Should’ve Been a Cowboy” by Toby Keith: A Nostalgic Ode to the Cowboy Life
“Should’ve Been a Cowboy”, written and performed by American country music artist Toby Keith, stands as an iconic debut that launched Keith’s illustrious career. Released on February 12, 1993, this song swiftly climbed the charts, reaching number one on the US Billboard Hot Country Songs and the Canadian RPM Country Tracks charts by June 5, 1993. Its success even transcended the country genre, peaking at number 93 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking it as a minor crossover hit.
From its debut, “Should’ve Been a Cowboy” resonated deeply with audiences, particularly in regions steeped in Western heritage. It’s no surprise that the song became a staple at sporting events at Oklahoma State University, home of the Cowboys. The fans, in celebration of their team’s victories, would hear this song echoing through the stadium, creating an atmosphere of nostalgia and pride.
The song’s origin story is as compelling as its melody. Toby Keith drew inspiration from a personal experience in the early 90s at a bar. Observing a highway patrolman, John, who despite his best efforts, was turned down by a young cowgirl only to see her dance with a younger cowboy later, sparked the idea for the song. John’s friends humorously remarked, “John, I guess you should have been a cowboy,” planting the seed for Keith’s romanticized lyrics.
“Should’ve Been a Cowboy” is not just a song; it’s a tribute to the rugged and romanticized life of cowboys depicted in classic Westerns. The lyrics brim with references to the iconic cowboy image, evoking a sense of longing for the simpler, adventurous life. The first verse nostalgically nods to the long-running TV show Gunsmoke, where Marshal Dillon’s unfulfilled romance with Miss Kitty paints a picture of the lone, wandering cowboy. Keith’s narrative then takes a personal turn, imagining himself as a cowboy embarking on adventures across the American West.
The song’s chorus captures the essence of the cowboy dream, with mentions of legendary singing cowboys like Gene Autry and Roy Rogers. These references not only highlight the singer’s influences but also connect listeners to a shared cultural memory of the Old West. Keith’s vivid storytelling is enriched with imagery of six-shooters, cattle drives, and the camaraderie of sidekicks, all staples of Western lore.
American Aquarium‘s cover of the song in 2021 on their album Slappers, Bangers, and Certified Twangers: Vol 1 further attests to its enduring appeal and influence in the country music genre. This cover breathes new life into the song, introducing it to a new generation while preserving the original’s nostalgic charm.
In essence, “Should’ve Been a Cowboy” is more than just a song; it’s a cultural artifact that celebrates the timeless allure of the cowboy way of life. Its success and continued relevance underscore Toby Keith’s profound impact on country music and his ability to connect with listeners through heartfelt, relatable storytelling.
Music Legend