The Meaning Behind The Song: Hey Cowboy by Lee Hazlewood
Table: Information about the song
| Title | Artist | Writer/Composer | Album | Release Date | Genre | Producer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hey Cowboy | Lee Hazlewood | Lee Hazlewood | Cowboy in Sweden (1970) | 1970 | Folk | – |
Lee Hazlewood’s song “Hey Cowboy”, released in 1970, is a whimsical and mysterious folk tune that captures the essence of curiosity and fascination. The lyrics delve into the persona of a cowboy and the intrigue he brings to the land of the midnight sun. Through playful and enigmatic verses, Hazlewood explores the source of the cowboy’s attire, mannerisms, and even his horse.
The song starts with the lines “Hey cowboy, where did you get the clothes you wear? / Hey cowboy, where did you get the funny hair?” These questions immediately create an image of a character that stands out, someone unconventional and intriguing. The chorus adds an additional layer to the song’s meaning, implying that the cowboy may be in some sort of danger: “What are you doing in the land of the midnight sun? ‘Cause you better run / You’re just a toy cowboy.” The cowboy is depicted as a toy, perhaps an outsider who doesn’t fit in with the customs and traditions of the place he finds himself in.
As the song progresses, more questions arise. “Hey cowboy, where did you get the funny walk? / Hey cowboy, where did you get the crazy talk?” The cowboy’s mannerisms and way of speaking further emphasize his uniqueness and peculiarity. The chorus repeats, reinforcing the notion that he is an outsider in this unfamiliar land and should be cautious.
One of the standout lines in the song is, “If I’m a toy then let me do what I do / You wind me up and watch what I’d do to you.” Despite being labeled as a toy, the cowboy asserts his agency and warns others not to underestimate him. He may be small in stature, but he believes he can accomplish great things, even the little things that others may overlook.
The bridge of the song introduces the question, “Hey cowboy, where did you get that horse? / Hey cowboy, from the men of course.” This adds another layer of mystery to the cowboy’s persona. Did he acquire his horse through unconventional means, or does it have a symbolic meaning? It is left to the listener’s interpretation.
Through the catchy and enigmatic lyrics, Lee Hazlewood explores the allure and strangeness of the cowboy in a foreign land. The song captures a sense of wonder and fascination with those who don’t quite fit in with societal norms but bring a fresh perspective and excitement to the world around them.
Personally, “Hey Cowboy” holds a special place in my heart. As a lover of folk music, I was immediately drawn to the unique sound and captivating lyrics of this song. It transports me to another world, where I can imagine myself as the curious onlooker encountering the mysterious cowboy. The song’s playful yet melancholic tone resonates with my own experiences of feeling like an outsider at times, but also finding solace in embracing my quirks and standing out from the crowd.
Listening to “Hey Cowboy” evokes a sense of adventure and a reminder to embrace the unconventional. It serves as a reminder that it’s okay to wander outside the boundaries of societal expectations and create a life that matches one’s true desires and passions.
