Introduction:
I Can Still Make Cheyenne, a poignant country ballad released in 1996, is a testament to the enduring legacy of George Strait, the “King of Country Music”. Strait, known for his smooth vocals and neotraditional country style, delivered this heartfelt song as part of his critically acclaimed album, Blue Clear Sky. The album’s producer, Tony Brown, a frequent collaborator of Strait’s, helped create a signature sound that resonated with country music fans.
I Can Still Make Cheyenne is not credited with having a singular songwriter. Instead, songwriting duties are attributed to the duo of Aaron Barker and Erv Woolsey. While they may not be household names compared to Strait, their songwriting prowess contributed significantly to the song’s success.
The song itself narrates a story of heartbreak and the desperate hope of reconciliation. The protagonist, a rodeo cowboy on the road, receives devastating news from his wife. She informs him that their relationship is over and she’s leaving, prompting the cowboy to race against time to reach her before it’s too late. The urgency of his situation is evident in the repeated line, “I Can Still Make Cheyenne,” referencing the city where his wife is headed.
I Can Still Make Cheyenne was a commercial success for Strait. While it didn’t top the charts, it reached a respectable position and garnered positive critical reception. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its relatable story and Strait’s masterful delivery. It perfectly captures the desperation and vulnerability one feels when faced with the potential loss of love. Moreover, it resonates with those who have chased a dream, be it a literal journey or a metaphorical pursuit, against seemingly insurmountable odds.
I Can Still Make Cheyenne stands out not only for its narrative but also for its place within Strait’s long and illustrious career. Released in 1996, it marked a period where Strait was already a major country music star. Having numerous chart-topping hits and awards under his belt, the song solidified his position as a country music icon. I Can Still Make Cheyenne is a powerful ballad that continues to be a favorite among Strait’s loyal fan base and serves as a reminder of his timeless artistry.
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Lyrics:
Her telephone rang ’bout a quarter to nineShe heard his voice on the other end of the lineShe wondered what was wrong this timeShe never knew what his calls might bringWith a cowboy like him, it could be anythingAnd she always expected the worstIn the back of her mindHe said, it’s cold out here and I’m all aloneDidn’t make the short go again and I’m coming homeI know I’ve been away too longI never got a chance to write or callAnd I know this rodeo has been hard on us allBut I’ll be home soonAnd honey is there somethin’ wrongShe said, don’t bother comin’ homeBy time you get here I’ll be long goneThere’s somebody new and he sure ain’t no rodeo manHe said, I’m sorry it’s come down to thisThere’s so much about you that I’m gonna missBut it’s alright babyIf I hurry I can still make CheyenneGotta go now babyIf I hurry I can still make CheyenneHe left that phone danglin’ off the hookThen slowly turned around and gave it one last lookThen he just walked awayHe aimed his truck toward that Wyoming lineWith a little luck he could still get there in timeAnd in that Cheyenne wind he could still hear her sayShe said, don’t bother comin’ homeBy time you get here I’ll be long goneThere’s somebody new and he sure ain’t no rodeo manHe said, I’m sorry it’s come down to thisThere’s so much about you that I’m gonna missBut it’s alright babyIf I hurry I can still make CheyenneGotta go now babyIf I hurry I can still make CheyenneShe never knew what his calls might bringWith a cowboy like him, it could be anythingAnd she always expected the worstIn the back of her mind