Cool Water
Hank Snow · The Singing Ranger, Vol. 3 [Bear Family (Germany)] [1994]
(Cool clear water.)
All day I've faced a barren waste
without the taste of water cool water
Old Dan and I with throats burnt dry
And souls that cry for water cool clear water.
The nights are cool and I'm a fool
Each star's a pool of water cool water
But with the dawn I'll wake and yawn
And carry on to water cool clear water.
Keep a movin' Dan
Don't you listen to him Dan
He's a devil not a man
And he spreads the burning sand with water.
Oh Dan, can you see that big green tree
Where the water's running free
And it's waiting there
For you and me. (water.)
--- Instrumental ---
The shadows sway and seem to say
Tonight we pray for water cool water
And way up there he'll hear our prayer
And show us where there's water, cool clear water.
Dan's feet are sore he's yearnin' for
just one thing more than water cool water
Like me I guess he'd like to rest
Where there's no quest of water, cool clear water.
(Keep a movin' Dan
Don't you listen to him Dan
He's a devil not a man
And he spreads the burning sand with water.)
Oh Dan, can you see that big green tree
Where the water's running free
And it's waiting there
For you and me. (cool clear water...)
Cool Water
Hank Snow's 'Cool Water' stands as a defining moment in his extensive discography, showcasing the polished, narrative-driven style that earned him the moniker The Singing Ranger. Released during a period of significant commercial success, the track exemplifies Snow's mastery of the honky-tonk and country ballad genres. The song tells a poignant tale of a weary cowboy seeking relief in the desert, a theme that resonated deeply with audiences and helped solidify Snow's reputation for emotional storytelling. As a key recording in his body of work, it highlights his smooth vocal delivery and the sophisticated arrangements that distinguished him from his contemporaries. This enduring classic remains a testament to Snow's ability to craft timeless country music that continues to influence the genre.