About the song
In the vast landscape of country music, where the echoes of tradition mingle with the untamed spirit of the frontier, few figures stand as tall and authentic as Chris LeDoux. A true embodiment of the cowboy archetype, LeDoux wasn’t merely a singer; he was a rodeo champion, a rancher, and a storyteller whose music resonated with the heart and soul of the American West.
Born in 1948 in Billings, Montana, LeDoux’s life was a rich tapestry woven with threads of rugged individualism, diligent work, and a profound connection to the land. His journey commenced in the rodeo arena, where he honed his skills as a bareback rider, ultimately earning a national championship in 1970. Yet, even amidst the adrenaline-fueled thrill of competition, music remained a constant presence in his life.
LeDoux’s musical style mirrored his life experiences – a harmonious blend of traditional country, western folk, and a touch of rock-and-roll swagger. His songs brimmed with vivid imagery of cowboy life, tales of love and loss, and a generous dose of humor. With a voice as robust and weathered as the western terrain, he sang of dusty trails, wild horses, and the unwavering spirit of the cowboy.
In 1992, LeDoux released the album “Whatcha Gonna Do with a Cowboy,” which featured the song “Little Long-Haired Outlaw.” This song, with its infectious rhythm and playful lyrics, swiftly became a fan favorite. It narrates the story of a young cowboy with a rebellious streak, a passion for the open road, and a heart of gold. The song’s protagonist, the “little long-haired outlaw,” embodies the independent spirit that LeDoux himself so perfectly exemplified.
Musically, “Little Long-Haired Outlaw” stands as a testament to LeDoux’s ability to craft catchy, foot-tapping melodies that remain true to the roots of country music. The song’s instrumentation is classic country, featuring a driving rhythm section, twangy guitars, and a touch of harmonica. LeDoux’s vocals take center stage, delivering the lyrics with a wink and a nod, inviting the listener to join in the merriment.
Beyond its musical allure, “Little Long-Haired Outlaw” also speaks to the universal yearning for freedom and self-expression. The song’s protagonist, with his long hair and outlaw ways, represents the rebel within us all – the part of us that longs to break free from societal constraints and live life on our own terms.
Chris LeDoux’s music, including “Little Long-Haired Outlaw,” continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. His songs serve as a reminder of a simpler era, when life was lived at a slower pace and the values of hard work, honesty, and loyalty held paramount importance. In a world that often feels chaotic and uncertain, LeDoux’s music offers a comforting respite, a reminder of the enduring power of the cowboy spirit.
So, whether you’re a longtime aficionado of Chris LeDoux or a newcomer to his musical repertoire, “Little Long-Haired Outlaw” is a song guaranteed to captivate and entertain. It’s a testament to the enduring power of country music, a celebration of cowboy life, and a reminder that sometimes, it’s good to be a little bit of an outlaw.
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Lyrics
Well I have been a cowboy dang near all my lifeThat good ol’ cowboy music is all I’m supposed to likeBut here lately I don’t know what’s happening but I’m losin’ controlI’m losin’ controlTo a little longhaired outlaw who’s a ridin’ somewhere deep down in my soulHe likes rock and rollWell he rides a pinto stallion down the canyons of my mindMakes camp beneath a memory below the timberlineGot a little electric fender guitar plugs direct into my soulRight into my soulTurns up the volume bends them guitar strings and plays that rock and rollAh and here he goesWell I can be do a concert strummin’ along just finePlaying Little Joe The Wrangler when somethin’ snaps inside my mindAnd I can feel that longhaired music wellin’ up from the rivers of my soulWhere the music flowsWhen that little longhair outlaw takes over and makes me play that rock and roll oh yeahNow if you like cowboy music and you don’t like this songWell I’d like to apologize if the tune kinda came out wrongBut you see I can’t help myself the little longhair has got controlAnd he won’t let goBut I’ll get back to my cowboy music but sometimes you gotta play a little rock and rollIt’s my turn it’s about time