About the song
“The Buckskin Lady” by Chris LeDoux: A Cowboy’s Ode to His Faithful Mare
Chris LeDoux was more than just a country singer; he was a true cowboy, a rodeo champion whose music was deeply rooted in the traditions of the American West. “The Buckskin Lady” stands as a testament to this, a heartfelt tribute to a cowboy’s most trusted companion: his horse.
Released in 1974, this song is a classic example of LeDoux’s ability to weave authentic cowboy experiences into his music. It’s not just a song about a horse; it’s a song about loyalty, partnership, and the deep connection between a rider and their mount.
A Story of Partnership:
“The Buckskin Lady” tells the story of a cowboy and his faithful buckskin mare. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of their shared experiences, from working the range to competing in rodeos. The song celebrates the mare’s strength, spirit, and unwavering loyalty.
Musical Elements:
LeDoux’s raw, powerful vocals perfectly capture the ruggedness of the cowboy lifestyle. The song’s simple, yet effective arrangement, featuring acoustic guitar and fiddle, enhances the authenticity of the storytelling. The song’s rhythm and tempo are those that make you feel like you are riding across the plains.
Themes of Loyalty and Tradition:
At its core, “The Buckskin Lady” is a celebration of the enduring bond between humans and animals. It speaks to the values of loyalty, respect, and the importance of tradition in the cowboy way of life. It also shows the deep respect that a true cowboy has for his animals.
Chris LeDoux’s Legacy:
Chris LeDoux was a true original, a cowboy who lived and breathed the lifestyle he sang about. “The Buckskin Lady” is a perfect example of his ability to capture the essence of the American West in his music. His songs continue to resonate with listeners who appreciate authentic country music and the traditions of the cowboy.
Additional Notes:
- The song showcases Chris LeDoux’s deep understanding of the cowboy lifestyle.
- It’s a testament to the importance of horses in the American West.
- The song’s simple, yet powerful lyrics and arrangement make it a timeless classic.
- The song was written by Bob Frank.
- The song was recorded at Ray Stevens Studio in Nashville.
“The Buckskin Lady” is more than just a song; it’s a piece of cowboy history, a reminder of the enduring spirit of the American West. I hope this provides a good overview of this classic song.
Video
Lyrics
Now, I’ve got a pony, the fastest thing aroundAnd of all the girls I’ve known she’s the truest one I’ve foundWell, she’ll cut ’em and she’ll head ’em just the way you want ’em turnedAnd if you drop your loop around ’em, she can make a grass rope humAnd any time you’ve got a rodeo, and I’ve got the entry feeYou can bet your boots my gal and I will comeWhoopee-ti-d-idi-ido on the plains of ColoradoThat young pony was born to work the trailSome old Idaho rawhider was the first one tried to ride herBronco buster, wild horse rustlerWell she flipped him off like a turkey feather dusterNow, some folks like a Cadillac with power brakes and airJust give me a hamlee saddle and my little buckskin mareWell, I rode her up the mountain when we made that summer driveAnd I took her to Wyomin’ for a rodeo or twoAt old Cheyenne and Saratoga, we’d roped them little dogiesShe’s the best ol’ gal this cowboy ever knewWhen she gets too old to rodeo, too old to ride the rangeI’ll take the buckskin lady out across the open plains‘Cause she’s just an ol’ cow pony and I know she’d go plum crazyIf she had to stand unsaddled around the barn the whole day throughI’ll just turn her loose to ramble, underneath them rocky mountainsAnd tell ’em that her workin’ days are throughWhoopee-ti-d-idi-ido on the plains of ColoradoThat young pony was born to work the trailSome old Idaho rawhider was the first one tried to ride herBronco buster, wild horse rustlerWell she flipped him off like a turkey feather dusterWhoopee-ti-d-idi-ido on the plains of ColoradoThat’s my pony sir and I say she ain’t for sale