About the song
Alright, folks, gather ’round and let’s set the stage for a true Texas two-step! Tonight, we delve into a live rendition of a classic country tune – Amarillo By Morning by the legendary George Strait, with a special guest appearance by the iconic Alan Jackson. This powerhouse performance, captured live from the roaring crowd at AT&T Stadium, is a testament to the enduring legacy of both artists and the power of collaboration.
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Strait, a name synonymous with traditional country music, rose to prominence in the 1980s with his signature blend of neotraditional country and honky-tonk sounds. Renowned for his smooth vocals, clean-cut image, and a stage presence that exudes quiet confidence, Strait has amassed a loyal following and garnered countless awards throughout his illustrious career [Wikipedia: George Strait]. Amarillo By Morning, released in 1983 on his album Strait Country, quickly became a fan favorite. The song tells the story of a restless drifter, yearning for freedom and a new start in the bustling city of Amarillo, Texas, by morning. The lyrics, penned by songwriter Paul Overstreet, capture a sense of wanderlust and the ever-present allure of the open road, a theme deeply ingrained in the DNA of country music [Wikipedia: Amarillo By Morning].
This particular rendition, however, holds a special place in the hearts of country fans. Recorded during Strait’s farewell tour, The Cowboy Rides Away, at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, the energy is electric. Strait, nearing the end of an era-defining career, is joined by another country music giant, Alan Jackson. Jackson, known for his distinctive baritone voice and relatable storytelling lyrics, has carved his own path in the genre, earning himself a reputation as one of the most influential country artists of all time [Wikipedia: Alan Jackson]. The pairing of these two titans is a dream come true for any country music aficionado.
What can we expect from this live performance? Imagine the vast Texas sky stretching overhead as the opening chords of Amarillo By Morning ring out. Strait’s smooth vocals weave through the melody, imbued with a touch of nostalgia, a reflection perhaps on a long and storied career. The addition of Jackson’s powerful voice adds a new dimension to the song, creating a harmonious blend that is both familiar and refreshing. The live audience, a sea of Stetsons and boots, becomes a part of the performance itself, their cheers and enthusiastic singalongs adding to the electrifying atmosphere.
This live performance of Amarillo By Morning is more than just a song; it’s a celebration of country music royalty, a passing of the torch, and a testament to the enduring power of great songwriting. So, put on your dancing shoes, crank up the volume, and get ready to experience a piece of country music history.
Video
Lyrics
“Amarillo By Morning”
Everything that I’ve got is just what I’ve got on
When that sun is high in that Texas sky
I’ll be bucking at the county fair
Amarillo by morning, Amarillo I’ll be there
They took my saddle in Houston, broke my leg in Santa Fe
Lost my wife and a girlfriend somewhere along the way
Well I’ll be looking for eight when they pull that gate
And I hope that judge ain’t blind
Amarillo by morning, Amarillo’s on my mind
Amarillo by morning, up from San Antone
Everything that I’ve got is just what I’ve got on
I ain’t got a dime, but what I got is mine
I ain’t rich, but Lord I’m free
Amarillo by morning, Amarillo’s where I’ll be
Amarillo by morning, Amarillo’s where I’ll be