Orville Peck & Willie Nelson – Cowboys Are Frequently Secretly Fond Of Each Other (Official Video)

Introduction

“Cowboys Are Frequently Secretly Fond of Each Other” is a song with a rich and unique history that delves into themes of love, identity, and acceptance within the traditionally conservative world of cowboy culture. Written by country singer-songwriter Ned Sublette in 1981, the song gained notoriety for its bold exploration of homosexuality among cowboys, a subject rarely addressed in country music at the time.

The song remained relatively obscure until it was covered by the legendary Willie Nelson. Nelson, known for his progressive views and willingness to push boundaries within the genre, recorded the song in 2006. His version was released on Valentine’s Day, and it quickly became notable for its candid portrayal of same-sex love in a genre that had long been associated with traditional masculinity and heterosexuality. Nelson’s rendition of “Cowboys Are Frequently Secretly Fond of Each Other” was groundbreaking, as it marked one of the first times a major country artist had recorded a song explicitly dealing with gay themes. The release received widespread attention, further cementing Nelson’s reputation as a trailblazer in the music industry.

In 2023, the song took on new life when Orville Peck, a rising star known for his masked persona and LGBTQ+ advocacy, teamed up with Willie Nelson to create an official video for the song. Peck, who has been praised for his unique blend of classic country sounds and modern queer themes, brought a fresh perspective to the song, appealing to a new generation of listeners while honoring the legacy of Nelson’s earlier work.

The collaboration between Nelson and Peck highlights the song’s enduring relevance and its powerful message of love and acceptance. By revisiting and reinterpreting this song, the artists not only pay homage to the original but also underscore the importance of diversity and inclusion in country music.

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