Introduction
“Cowgirls Don’t Cry” is a poignant country song by the iconic duo Brooks & Dunn, featuring Reba McEntire. Released in October 2008 as the final single from their album Cowboy Town, the song tells the story of a resilient cowgirl who faces various life challenges with stoic strength, embodying the spirit of toughness and independence.
Written by Ronnie Dunn and Terry McBride, the song emphasizes how the cowgirl, from her early years under the guidance of her father to adulthood, faces hardships such as loss and betrayal but learns to keep going without shedding tears. The song resonates deeply with the Western cowboy and cowgirl ethos of inner strength and perseverance.
The original version of “Cowgirls Don’t Cry” was a solo recording by Brooks & Dunn. However, after Reba McEntire performed the song with them at the 2008 CMA Awards, it was re-released as a duet featuring McEntire. This collaboration added a new emotional depth to the track, blending McEntire’s strong vocal presence with the duo’s signature style.
The song enjoyed commercial success, peaking at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and reaching broader audiences. It became a fan favorite for its heartfelt lyrics and the powerful chemistry between Brooks & Dunn and Reba McEntire. The official music video, directed by Deaton Flanigen, visually underscores the narrative of endurance and resilience, further cementing the song’s place in country music history as a tribute to strong, resilient women.