About the song
There’s something undeniably poignant about a song that speaks to the heart of a parent’s fears and hopes. Mammas, Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up To Be Cowboys, a duet by the legendary country music icons Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson, is one such song. Released in 1978, this classic ballad has stood the test of time, continuing to resonate with audiences of all ages.
At its core, the song is a cautionary tale about the hardships faced by cowboys. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a nomadic lifestyle filled with loneliness, danger, and uncertainty. The phrase “grow up to be cowboys” becomes a metaphor for any risky or unpredictable path in life. Jennings and Nelson’s soulful vocals convey a sense of deep empathy for the struggles of these rugged individuals, while also acknowledging the allure of the cowboy lifestyle.
The song’s appeal lies not only in its evocative lyrics but also in the chemistry between Jennings and Nelson. Their voices blend seamlessly, creating a rich and harmonious sound that is both comforting and evocative. The instrumentation is sparse, allowing the vocals and the story to take center stage. A steel guitar provides a haunting backdrop, adding to the song’s melancholy tone.
Mammas, Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up To Be Cowboys is more than just a country song; it’s a timeless piece of Americana that captures the spirit of the American West. The song’s themes of love, loss, and the challenges of growing up are universal, making it relatable to listeners from all walks of life.
One of the reasons this song continues to resonate with audiences today is its ability to evoke nostalgia. For many listeners, Mammas, Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up To Be Cowboys transports them back to a simpler time. It’s a reminder of a bygone era when country music was rooted in storytelling and authenticity.
In conclusion, Mammas, Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up To Be Cowboys is a masterpiece of country music that has left an enduring legacy. The song’s combination of heartfelt lyrics, soulful vocals, and timeless themes has ensured its place in the country music canon. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson or simply appreciate great country music, this song is a must-listen.”
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Lyrics
Mamas, don’t let your babies grow up to be cowboys
Don’t let ’em pick guitars and drive them old trucks
Make ’em be doctors and lawyers and such
Mamas, don’t let your babies grow up to be cowboys
‘Cause they’ll never stay home and they’re always alone
Even with someone they love
Cowboys ain’t easy to love and they’re harder to hold
They’d rather give you a song than diamonds or gold
Lonestar belt buckles and old faded Levis
And each night begins a new day
If you don’t understand him, and he don’t die young
He’ll probably just ride away
Mamas, don’t let your babies grow up to be cowboys
Don’t let ’em pick guitars or drive them old trucks
Make ’em be doctors and lawyers and such
Mamas, don’t let your babies grow up to be cowboys
‘Cause they’ll never stay home and they’re always alone
Even with someone they love
Cowboys like smoky old pool rooms and clear mountain mornings
Little warm puppies and children and girls of the night
Them that don’t know him won’t like him and them that do
Sometimes won’t know how to take him
He ain’t wrong, he’s just different but his pride won’t let him
Do things to make you think he’s right
Mamas, don’t let your babies grow up to be cowboys
Don’t let ’em pick guitars and drive them old trucks
Make ’em be doctors and lawyers and such
Mamas, don’t let your babies grow up to be cowboys
‘Cause they’ll never stay home and they’re always alone
Even with someone they love
