Should've Been a Cowboy

Toby Keith

About Should've Been a Cowboy

"Should've Been a Cowboy" is a song written and recorded by American country music artist Toby Keith. It was released on February 12, 1993 as his debut single and the first from his self-titled debut album. On June 5, 1993, the song reached number one on the US Billboard Hot Country Songs and the Canadian RPM Country Tracks charts. It also peaked at number 93 on the Billboard Hot 100, making it a minor crossover hit. It has received more than three million spins on country radio, making it the most-played country song of the 1990s. The song is a staple following sporting events at Oklahoma State University (home of the Cowboys), often played over the venue's PA system several times in succession as fans emptied the stadium or arena. 


Year:
1993
3:30
1,479 
#5

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I bet you've never heard ole Marshall Dillion say
Miss Kitty have you ever thought of running away
Settling down will you marry me
If I asked you twice and begged you pretty please
She'd of said, "Yes in a New York minute"
They never tied the knot
His heart wasn't in it
Stole a kiss as he road away
He never hung his hat up at Kitty's place

I should've been a Cowboy
I should'be learned to rope and ride
Wearing my six-shooter riding by pony on a cattle drive
Stealing the young girl's hearts
Just like Gene and Roy
Singing those campfire songs
I should've been a cowboy

I might of had a side kick with a funny name
Running wild through the hills chasing Jesse James
Ending up on the brink of danger
Riding shotgun for the Texas Rangers
Go west young man, haven't you been told
California's full of whiskey, women and gold
Sleeping out all night beneath the dessert stars
Dream in my eye and a prayer in my heart

I should've been a Cowboy
I should'be learned to rope and ride
Wearing my six-shooter riding by pony on a cattle drive
Stealing the young girl's hearts
Just like Gene and Roy
Singing those campfire songs
I should've been a cowboy

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Toby Keith

Toby Keith Covel (born July 8, 1961), best known as Toby Keith, is an American country music singer-songwriter, record producer and actor. Keith released his first four studio albums—1993's Toby Keith, 1994's Boomtown, 1996's Blue Moon and 1997's Dream Walkin', plus a Greatest Hits package for various divisions of Mercury Records before leaving Mercury in 1998. These albums all earned gold or higher certification, and produced several chart singles, including his debut "Should've Been a Cowboy", which topped the country charts and was the most played country song of the 1990s. The song has received three million spins since its release, according to Broadcast Music Incorporated. more »

13 fans

Written by: Toby Keith

Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


12 facts about this song

Debut Song
"Should've Been a Cowboy" was Toby Keith's debut single. The inaugural song was included in his first studio album - Toby Keith and introduced him to the country music scene.
Chart Success
The song topped the US Billboard Hot Country Songs chart in 1993, marking Keith's assertion in the industry.
Long-lasting Popularity
The song remained on the Top Country charts for a whopping 20 weeks, indicating its long-lasting popularity with the audience.
Theme
"Should've Been a Cowboy" has a unique theme revolving around the Old West, which resonated with many listeners, arguably contributing to its success.
Songwriting
Toby Keith himself wrote this song, revealing his songwriting prowess from the very start of his music career.
Multiplatinum Album
After the success of "Should've Been a Cowboy," Toby Keith's debut album was certified platinum in the U.S. twice, marking a significant achievement for the new artist.
Influence
The song significantly influenced country music and culture. It's often associated with cowboy lifestyle and a longing for simpler times.
25th Anniversary
In 2018, to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the song, Toby Keith embarked on the “Should’ve Been a Cowboy Tour XXV,” highlighting the song's continued appeal.
Cover Performances
Numerous artists, including Taylor Swift, have covered this song in their performances, referencing its iconic status in the country music realm.
Noteworthy Recognition
According to Broadcast Music Inc., as of 2014, "Should've Been a Cowboy" was the most played song in the history of country radio with more than four million spins, underscoring its remarkable success.
Sales Success
The single sold over half a million copies in the United States, earning a gold certification by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).
Music Video
The music video for "Should've Been a Cowboy" was directed by Marc Ball and shot in Arizona, featuring Keith both lounging and performing against picturesque Southwest landscapes.

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    Should've Been a Cowboy

    30M
    99,649     4,951

    Top Hot 100 Songs 1993

    Billboard #93


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