George Strait – How ‘Bout Them Cowgirls: A Country Anthem Celebrating Women of the West
In the vast landscape of country music, few voices resonate with such authenticity and warmth as George Strait. Renowned for his smooth baritone vocals and his storytelling lyrics, Strait has carved a legendary career, capturing the essence of rural America. Amongst his numerous hits, “How ‘Bout Them Cowgirls” stands out as a playful and heartfelt tribute to the strong, independent women who embody the spirit of the West.
Background
Released in 2007 as the fourth single from his album It Just Comes Natural, “How ‘Bout Them Cowgirls” quickly became a fan favorite. The song reached number three on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and peaked at number 49 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart, showcasing its appeal beyond the traditional country audience.
The song’s narrative unfolds through a series of observations made by the narrator as he travels across the country. He encounters a diverse cast of women, each with their own unique story, yet all united by their resilience and unwavering spirit. The lyrics, penned by Casey Beathard and Ed Hill, paint a vivid picture of the cowgirl’s life:
“Seen ’em workin’ cattle, seen ’em ropin’ steers Seen ’em mendin’ fences, dryin’ their happy tears”
Strait’s signature storytelling approach shines through, as he avoids clichés and instead presents a multifaceted portrayal of these women. They are not simply damsels in distress; they are depicted as capable ranch hands, rodeo competitors, and everything in between.
The playful title, “How ‘Bout Them Cowgirls,” serves as a constant refrain throughout the song. It’s a call to celebrate these women and their contributions to the Western way of life. The song is not merely a celebration of their physical beauty, but rather an appreciation of their strength, determination, and unwavering spirit.
Musically, “How ‘Bout Them Cowgirls” is a mid-tempo country ballad with a driving rhythm section and a catchy melody. The arrangement features classic country instrumentation, including steel guitar and fiddle, creating a warm and familiar soundscape. Strait’s vocals are smooth and expressive, perfectly conveying the admiration and respect he holds for the cowgirls he sings about.
“How ‘Bout Them Cowgirls” has become a staple at George Strait concerts, eliciting cheers from the audience, particularly the female contingent. Beyond its popularity as a performance piece, the song has been praised for its positive portrayal of women in a genre that can sometimes fall into stereotypical portrayals.
In conclusion, “How ‘Bout Them Cowgirls” is more than just a catchy country tune; it’s a celebration of the strong, independent women who have shaped the West. Through his masterful songwriting and his signature vocals, George Strait delivers a timeless ode to the cowgirls, a testament to their enduring legacy.