Song Information
Released in 1991 as a standout track from Chris LeDoux’s Haywire album, “Even Cowboys Like a Little Rock and Roll” became one of the most recognizable songs of his career. It showcased not just his roots in traditional cowboy country, but also his bold embrace of crossover energy — blending honky-tonk storytelling with a touch of rock-and-roll swagger. The song later gained even more attention in live performances when Chris performed it alongside Garth Brooks, bringing together two legends of modern country.
Song Summary
“Even Cowboys Like a Little Rock and Roll” is a lively, upbeat anthem that challenges the stereotypical image of the modern cowboy. While Chris LeDoux had long been known for his rodeo songs and roughneck charm, this track offers a playful twist: cowboys, despite their boots and hats, can also get down to the rhythm of electric guitars and backbeat drums.
The lyrics paint a humorous picture of a cowboy who prefers Hank Williams by day but can’t help tapping his boots to Elvis Presley or Buddy Holly when the night falls. There’s a subtle rebellion in the tone — an insistence that being country doesn’t mean being stuck in the past. The chorus is catchy and fun, inviting listeners of all backgrounds to embrace musical variety.
It’s also worth noting the energy Chris brought to the track. With his signature gritty vocals and spirited delivery, the song became a staple in his live shows. It represented not just a blend of genres, but a deeper expression of Chris LeDoux’s personal identity: a rodeo champion who loved to push boundaries.
Behind the Story: Why This Song Mattered
At first listen, “Even Cowboys Like a Little Rock and Roll” may sound like a lighthearted novelty — a foot-stomping celebration of musical diversity. But to Chris LeDoux, the song carried a deeper truth.
For years, Chris had fought hard to be recognized as more than just a rodeo legend. Long before signing with a major label, he sold over 250,000 albums independently — a rare feat in the pre-internet era. Yet despite this, he was often pigeonholed as a “real cowboy singer” whose appeal was limited to rodeo crowds and Western purists.
This song became his declaration of independence.
By boldly stating that even cowboys have eclectic tastes, Chris invited fans to embrace a broader musical identity. He broke down cultural silos — and reminded Nashville that authenticity doesn’t mean staying in one lane. His fans, many of them ranchers and blue-collar workers, resonated with that sentiment: you could love George Strait and still rock out to Bob Seger.
In his final tours before his passing in 2005, Chris consistently opened his shows with this song. It wasn’t just fun — it was a message. He was a cowboy, yes. But he was also a dreamer, a rebel, and above all, an artist.