Introduction
“This Cowboy’s Hat” is a song with a unique history, deeply intertwined with the life and career of Chris LeDoux. It wasn’t a chart-topping hit upon its initial release, but it has since become a beloved classic and a symbol of authenticity in country music.
The song was written by Jake Brooks, a rodeo competitor and songwriter who was a friend of LeDoux. LeDoux, himself a rodeo legend and a genuine cowboy, first recorded “This Cowboy’s Hat” for his 1982 album, “Used to Want to Be a Cowboy.” The song tells a vivid story of a cowboy who stands his ground and defends his way of life when confronted by a group of bikers.
While the song didn’t achieve mainstream success initially, it resonated with those who appreciated LeDoux’s genuine cowboy persona and his unique blend of traditional country and rodeo-influenced music. It gradually gained popularity through word of mouth and exposure at rodeos and Western events, becoming a favorite among LeDoux’s dedicated fan base.
“This Cowboy’s Hat” received a significant boost in popularity in 1989 when Garth Brooks, a rising star in country music, mentioned LeDoux in his hit song “Much Too Young (To Feel This Damn Old).” This unexpected name-drop introduced LeDoux to a wider audience and helped solidify his status as a true icon of Western culture.
In the years since, “This Cowboy’s Hat” has become one of Chris LeDoux’s signature songs, celebrated for its storytelling, its powerful message of standing up for one’s beliefs, and its authentic portrayal of the cowboy spirit. It stands as a testament to LeDoux’s enduring legacy as a true cowboy, a talented musician, and a symbol of integrity in the world of country music.