Paula Cole’s hit song “Where Have All the Cowboys Gone” was released in 1997 and quickly became a popular tune on the radio. The song’s catchy melody and memorable lyrics have made it a classic that is still enjoyed today. In this article, we will take a closer look at the lyrics of “Where Have All the Cowboys Gone” and explore the meaning behind the words.

The Lyrics

Let’s start by taking a look at the lyrics of the song:

Oh, you get me ready in your 56 Chevy
Why don’t we go sit down in the shade?
Take shelter on my front porch
The dandy lion sun scorching
Like a glass of cold lemonade
I will do the laundry if you pay all the bills

Where is my John Wayne?
Where is my prairie son?
Where is my happy ending?
Where have all the cowboys gone?

Why don’t you stay the evening?
Kick back and watch the TV
And I’ll fix a little something to eat
Oh, I know your back hurts from working on the tractor
How do you take your coffee, my sweet?
I will raise the children if you pay all the bills

Where is my John Wayne?
Where is my prairie son?
Where is my happy ending?
Where have all the cowboys gone?

Where have all the cowboys gone?
Yippee-ki-yay, yippee-ki-yay
Yippee-ki-yay, yippee-ki-yay

We saddle up and ride into the sunset
Look back at where we’ve been
We’ve had a lot of fun, we’ve had a lot of laughs
But oh, this feeling never ends
Where is my John Wayne?
Where is my prairie son?
Where is my happy ending?
Where have all the cowboys gone?

Where is my Marlboro man?
Where is my happy ending?
Where have all the cowboys gone?
Where have all the cowboys gone?

As you can see, the lyrics of “Where Have All the Cowboys Gone” tell a story of a woman who is longing for a traditional cowboy-type man. She wants someone who will take care of her and provide for her, while she takes care of the household duties. The chorus repeats the question “Where have all the cowboys gone?” as she wonders where these types of men have disappeared to.

The Meaning

The lyrics of “Where Have All the Cowboys Gone” are a commentary on the changing roles of men and women in society. The song was released in the late 90s, a time when women were becoming more independent and breaking away from traditional gender roles. The woman in the song is longing for a man who will take care of her, but she is also willing to take care of him in return. The song is not necessarily a call to return to traditional gender roles, but rather a reflection on the changing dynamics between men and women.

Conclusion

“Where Have All the Cowboys Gone” is a classic song that has stood the test of time. The lyrics tell a story of a woman who is longing for a traditional cowboy-type man, while also reflecting on the changing roles of men and women in society. Whether you are a fan of Paula Cole or just enjoy good music, “Where Have All the Cowboys Gone” is a song that is sure to resonate with you.