Released on June 29, 2021, “That’s What Cowboys Do” by Garth Brooks is a true country music gem. It weaves together love, heartbreak, and the cowboy way of life. Co-written with John Martin and Mitch Rossell, it was first meant for Midland. But Garth Brooks’ version adds a special layer to the song’s meaning.
The song’s storytelling and lyrics take listeners back in time. It shows the ups and downs of love for those living a nomadic life, like rodeo cowboys. This analysis dives into the song’s importance in country music and its emotional connection with fans.
Key Takeaways
- “That’s What Cowboys Do” explores complex themes of love and heartbreak.
- The song was co-written by Garth Brooks, John Martin, and Mitch Rossell.
- It reflects the transient lifestyle of rodeo cowboys and their relationships.
- The song showcases Garth Brooks’ storytelling prowess in country music.
- Listeners feel a strong sense of nostalgia through its lyrics.
Understanding the Lyrics of “That’s What Cowboys Do”
The song “That’s What Cowboys Do” touches the hearts of many. It paints a picture of cowboy life, showing both the good and the hard times. Brooks’ words bring out the true spirit of cowboys, mixing joy with sacrifice.
Analyzing Key Themes in the Song
The song talks about the tough choices cowboys face. It shows the real side of cowboy life, beyond the myths. Each line tells a story of a cowboy’s inner struggles, showing the depth of their feelings.
Exploring the Storytelling Aspect of the Lyrics
Country music storytelling is on full display in “That’s What Cowboys Do.” Brooks takes us into the cowboy’s world, showing both fun and sadness. The song highlights the tough choices cowboys make, showing love often comes second to duty.
Garth Brooks: A Look at His Musical Journey
Garth Brooks has made a big mark in music since the late 1980s. His journey shows his early success and lasting impact on country music. He mixes different musical styles, reaching many fans and changing country music.
Early Career Highlights
Garth Brooks started with his debut album in 1989. His album “No Fences” in 1990 hit big with songs like “Friends in Low Places.” These hits made him a big name in country music.
These early wins showed Garth’s talent for connecting with people. He tells stories through his songs that listeners love.
Evolution of His Musical Style
Garth Brooks has always changed his music. He added rock and pop to his country sound. This made country music more popular and opened it up to new fans.
Impact on Country Music
Garth Brooks has had a huge impact on country music. He brought it to the forefront, showing it could appeal to many. His unique style has inspired many artists and made country music more accessible.
The Cultural Significance of Cowboys in America
Cowboys have shaped the United States’ identity. Their lives symbolize freedom, adventure, and being independent. The cowboy’s role goes beyond the 19th century cattle drives. It represents a lifestyle many admire today.
This image in American culture shows their role in agriculture and expanding the frontier. It also highlights their lasting impact on the nation’s values.
Historical Context of Cowboy Life
In the late 1800s, cowboys became a key part of America. They herded cattle across vast lands, facing tough conditions. Their lives required toughness and cleverness, traits seen as American.
Stories of cowboys and their adventures spread, creating a rich folklore. This history adds depth to the cowboy image in media. It shows their rugged lifestyle and their role in opening the American West.
The Cowboy Image in Popular Culture
Today, the cowboy image is big in films, books, and music. The cowboy, often seen as a lone hero, connects with people. This image shows bravery and honor, reflecting a love for independence.
Garth Brooks’ music captures the cowboy’s noble and hard sides. It shows the cowboy’s lasting impact on media and culture.
The Inspiration Behind “That’s What Cowboys Do”
Garth Brooks is great at turning his life stories into songs. “That’s What Cowboys Do” is a perfect example. It mixes his life experiences with the lessons he’s learned from others. This mix makes the song a hit with fans, pulling them into the world of country life.
Personal Experiences of Garth Brooks
Brooks writes songs based on his life as a cowboy. He tells stories of struggles and victories. His songs are full of themes like staying strong, facing heartache, and the bond of friendship.
His life story makes the song real and relatable. It speaks to anyone who has gone through tough times.
Influences from Other Artists
Brooks says many artists, like George Strait, have shaped his music. The song’s roots are in classic country, thanks to these influences. Brooks’ sound is a mix of old and new, appealing to fans today.
His music has inspired others to tell their own stories. This keeps country music alive and full of stories.
Musical Composition of “That’s What Cowboys Do”
“That’s What Cowboys Do” captures the heart of traditional country music. It combines classic instruments with heartfelt vocals. The song’s arrangement perfectly captures the mood and message of its lyrics.
Instrumentation and Arrangement
The song uses slide guitars, fiddles, and piano for its rich sound. It pays tribute to 90s country, offering a nostalgic yet fresh vibe. Each instrument adds to the story, making the themes of struggle and resilience vivid.
Vocal Delivery and Performance
Garth Brooks’ vocals are emotionally deep and technically skilled. He connects with the audience, sharing the story with genuine emotion. Brooks’ storytelling style makes listeners feel part of the cowboy’s journey.
The blend of powerful vocals and meaningful lyrics makes the song memorable. For more on the song, check out this link.
Fan Reactions and Reception of the Song
“That’s What Cowboys Do” got a lot of love from fans and critics. It connected with listeners who love the cowboy way of life. This made it a big hit in Garth Brooks’ music collection.
Its success on the charts showed Garth Brooks is still a big name in country music.
Chart Performance and Awards
“That’s What Cowboys Do” reached number 29 on the US Country Airplay chart. This shows it was very popular when it came out. It stood out in a crowded music world.
At the 60th Annual ASCAP Country Music Awards, it was named one of the Most Performed Country Songs of 2021. This award shows its strong impact in the music industry.
Listener Testimonials and Reviews
Fans have a lot of good things to say about “That’s What Cowboys Do”. They say it touches their hearts, capturing the cowboy spirit. People love how the lyrics and tunes make them feel.
The Legacy of “That’s What Cowboys Do”
“That’s What Cowboys Do” by Garth Brooks is a key piece in country music’s growth. It captures cowboy life and enriches the song’s legacy. Its themes connect with listeners, keeping the cowboy story alive in music today.
Today’s artists find inspiration in this classic track. This shows how it influences new music.
Influence on Future Artists
“That’s What Cowboys Do” has made a lasting mark on new musicians. Many artists use its storytelling and traditional sound. This helps them find their place in country music while respecting its roots.
It teaches future artists the value of true stories in their music.
Continuation of Cowboy Themes in Modern Country
Cowboy themes in music are still popular, thanks to “That’s What Cowboys Do”. Modern artists mix cowboy culture with new sounds. This mix attracts listeners and keeps country music strong today.
Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of Garth Brooks’ Music
Garth Brooks has built a strong music legacy with songs like “That’s What Cowboys Do.” This song dives into cowboy life, touching on love, duty, and the emotional battles of the American spirit. The lyrics show Brooks’ skill in storytelling, connecting with listeners in a powerful way.
Looking ahead, Brooks’ impact on country music will likely grow. His storytelling style respects tradition while opening doors for new artists. Fans can look forward to seeing Brooks blend old and new styles, shaping country music’s future.
Garth Brooks is a key player in country music, keeping cowboy culture and true storytelling alive. His work, like “That’s What Cowboys Do,” offers deep insights that will last for years. For more, check out this article on Johnny Horton’s song: Gaining deeper appreciation.
FAQ
What is the main theme of “That’s What Cowboys Do”?
The song talks about love, heartbreak, and cowboy life. It shows the tough choice between duty and personal dreams.
Who wrote “That’s What Cowboys Do”?
Garth Brooks, John Martin, and Mitch Rossell wrote it. It was first meant for the country duo Midland.
How has Garth Brooks influenced country music?
Brooks made country music big and mainstream. He keeps changing his sound but stays true to country.
What instruments are used in “That’s What Cowboys Do”?
The song uses traditional country sounds. You’ll hear fiddles, steel guitars, and pianos, adding to its old-time feel.
How did fans and critics respond to “That’s What Cowboys Do”?
Fans and critics loved it when it came out. It reached number 29 on the US Country Airplay chart, showing Brooks is still a big deal.
What recognition did the song receive at the ASCAP awards?
“That’s What Cowboys Do” was named one of the Most Performed Country Songs of 2021 at the 60th Annual ASCAP Country Music Awards.
What cultural significance do cowboys hold in America?
Cowboys stand for freedom, adventure, and being true to oneself. Their legend lives on in music, movies, and books.
What is the story behind the title “That’s What Cowboys Do”?
The title captures the cowboy way of life. It’s about the hard choice between love and the cowboy’s wandering path.
What elements of Brooks’ personal experiences influenced this song?
Brooks used his own life and stories from other musicians. He aimed to truly show the ups and downs of cowboy life.
How does “That’s What Cowboys Do” contribute to Brooks’ legacy?
The song adds to Brooks’ legacy by keeping cowboy themes alive in country music. It encourages new artists to tell cowboy stories too.
