Toby Keith Released “Should’ve Been a Cowboy” 33 Years Ago Today

Thirty-three years ago today, the late, great Toby Keith gave us a song that blends the ideal cowboy dream with the melancholies of reality. Its catchy chorus and relatable lyrics have joined us on our workday commutes, our shower karaoke sessions, and our backyard barbecues for over three decades now. We continue to honor Keith to this day by playing “Should’ve Been a Cowboy” for all our neighbors to hear.

“Should’ve Been a Cowboy,” written by Keith, was released as a single on February 12th, 1993. Later that year, it was featured on Keith’s self-titled album, which is certified platinum in the U.S. The song serves as the opening track to immediately guide us into the perfect illustration of Toby Keith’s life and point of view. The track sets the tone of wanting more out of life and fulfillment, as other hits such as “He Ain’t Worth Missing,” “Wish I Didn’t Know Now,” and “A Little Less Talk and a Lot More Action” follow on the same album.

The song was a hit, reaching number one on the US Hot Country Songs chart by that summer. Seems like everyone was feeling those same wild west blues, we’re still living today. I mean, is there anything more ideal than “runnin’ wild through the hills chasin’ Jesse James,” or “ridin’ shotgun for the Texas Rangers,” or even “sleepin’ out all night beneath the desert stars”?

We lost a legend two years ago, after Keith fought a two-year battle with stomach cancer. He gave us many laughs, cries, and good times with his music and country charisma. “Should’ve Been a Cowboy” was just one of seventy-six songs he placed on the charts, and he remains one of the best-selling country artists of all time.

We’ll be singing those campfire songs in this perfect vision of the cowboy dream illustrated by one of the best songwriters and performers in country music.

Reflect on the country classic, “Should’ve Been a Cowboy,” and the lasting impact it’s had.