Introduction
How ‘Bout Them Cowgirls: A Celebration of the Western Woman
“How ‘Bout Them Cowgirls,” released in 2007 by country music legend George Strait, isn’t just a catchy tune – it’s a tribute to the strong, independent women who shaped the American West.
Written by Casey Beathard and Ed Hill, the song acknowledges the traditional image of the cowboy, but with a twist. It asks the listener, “How ‘Bout Them Cowgirls,” highlighting the women who rode alongside men, facing the challenges and rewards of frontier life.
The song’s release in 2007 coincided with a surge in interest in stories about the often-overlooked role of women in the Wild West. While cowboys captured the popular imagination, cowgirls also played a vital role. They weren’t just damsels in distress; they were ranchers, wranglers, and sharpshooters, essential to the taming of the frontier.
“How ‘Bout Them Cowgirls” isn’t just a celebration of their grit and determination; it also captures their spirit with Strait’s signature smooth vocals and a foot-tapping melody. The song’s easygoing style belies a deeper message of respect and admiration for the women who helped build the West.
So, the next time you hear “How ‘Bout Them Cowgirls,” take a moment to appreciate the legacy of the cowgirls who rode alongside the cowboys, shaping the American West into the land we know today.