A Classic Ode to the Rodeo: George Strait & Alan Jackson’s “Amarillo By Morning”

Introduction

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“Amarillo by Morning” is a quintessential country song that has resonated with audiences for decades, thanks to its heartfelt lyrics and timeless melody. Originally written by Terry Stafford and Paul Fraser, the song was inspired by Stafford’s drive from San Antonio to Amarillo and a FedEx commercial that guaranteed deliveries to Amarillo by morning. Stafford shared this concept with Fraser, who penned the song overnight. Released in 1973, Stafford’s version achieved modest success, peaking at No. 31 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart.

However, it was George Strait’s 1983 rendition that transformed the song into a country classic. Strait’s interpretation, featured on his album Strait from the Heart, brought a raw, authentic feel to the track, with its fiddle-driven arrangement and Strait’s understated vocals. The song peaked at No. 4 on the Billboard Country chart and became one of Strait’s signature songs. Its themes of resilience, freedom, and the rodeo lifestyle struck a chord with fans, solidifying its place in country music history.

Over the years, “Amarillo by Morning” has been covered by various artists, including rodeo champion Chris LeDoux and country singer Alan Jackson. Its enduring popularity is evident, with the song regularly featured at rodeos and country music events. In 2025, artists Siggno and Aaron Watson released a cumbia version of the song, showcasing its versatility and continued relevance in the country music landscape.

“Amarillo by Morning” remains a testament to the enduring spirit of the American cowboy and the timeless appeal of country music storytelling.

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“Cane Cooper” Almost Replaced George Strait?! A long-distance call and a virtual cup of coffee with old friend Roy Cooper uncovered a goldmine of behind-the-scenes stories from the 60th Annual Western Heritage Awards in Oklahoma City. There, Roy sat alongside country music legend George Strait – honored with the 2021 Lifetime Achievement Award – and legendary actor Robert Duvall, recipient of the 2020 award. Roy shared: 🗣️ “George said when he first arrived in Nashville in 1981, his producer at MCA told him to take off his hat and change his name to… Cane Cooper. George laughed, ‘Well, that would’ve made me one of the Cooper boys. But me and Roy are brothers anyway.’” When Roy asked Robert Duvall what his favorite movie was, he expected The Godfather. But Duvall answered without hesitation: 🎬 “Without a doubt — Lonesome Dove.” And on his way to the airport this morning, the 90-year-old Duvall called back to say: 👉 “Roy, this is Bobby Duvall. Tell that Brazile boy I said hi, and I want to see your son Tuf rope someday.” George Strait? Still witty and down-to-earth as ever: 🎶 “My favorite song? The one that made me the most money.” 😄 And Roy? Someone in the crowd brought up a legendary stat: 🏆 In 1978, he won Cheyenne, Calgary, and Pendleton — all in the same season. A true “Triple Crown” cowboy. As for George Strait — the hat stayed on that night. And the name? Still George Strait, just as destiny intended.