Introduction
Willie Nelson’s “We Are the Cowboys” might evoke images of the Wild West, but this song delves deeper than dusty trails and cattle drives. Released in 2020 on his album “First Rose of Spring,” the track offers a message of unity and a broader perspective on the cowboy spirit.
While the song wasn’t originally written by Nelson, it has a long history within his musical circle. The true craftsman behind the lyrics is Billy Joe Shaver, a Texas singer-songwriter known for his outlaw country style. Shaver penned “We Are the Cowboys” in 1981, and Nelson first performed it in 1999 on the album “Honky Tonk Heroes” alongside Shaver himself, along with country music legends Waylon Jennings and Kris Kristofferson.
Nelson’s 2020 rendition brings a fresh take to Shaver’s work. The classic country waltz melody provides a nostalgic backdrop for lyrics that redefine the cowboy image. Nelson sings of cowboys not just as wranglers on horseback, but as the everyday American people. He highlights the diversity within this group, mentioning “Texicans, Mexicans, Black men and Jews” – all united by their love for the country.
The song arrived in a particularly challenging year. Released amidst the disruptions of the global pandemic, “We Are the Cowboys” offered a comforting message of perseverance. Nelson’s signature raspy vocals deliver lines like “They’re counting on me and they’re counting on you,” reminding listeners of the shared responsibility we all hold for the future.
So, while you might tap your foot to the gentle rhythm, “We Are the Cowboys” is more than just a catchy tune. It’s a call to remember the spirit of unity and resilience that embodies the American ideal.