Rhinestone Cowboy
Glen Campbell · Country Hit Parade [Direct Source] [2006]
I've been walkin' these streets so long
Singin' the same old song
I know every crack in these dirty sidewalks of Broadway
Where hustle's the name of the game
And nice guys get washed away like the snow and the rain
There'll be a lotta of compromisin'
On the road to my horizon
But I'm gonna be where the lights are shinin' on me.
Like a rhinestone cowboy
Riding out on a horse in a star-spangled rodeo
Like a rhinestone cowboy
Getting cards and letters from people I don't even know
And offers comin' over the phone.
Well, I don't really mind the rain
And a smile can hide all the pain
But you're down when you're ridin' the train that's takin' the long way
And I dream of the things I'll do
With a subway token and a dollar tucked inside my shoe
There'll be a load of compromisin'
On the road to my horizon
But I'm gonna be where the lights are shinin' on me.
Like a rhinestone cowboy
Riding out on a horse in a star-spangled rodeo
Rhinestone cowboy
Gettin' cards and letters from people I don't even know
And offers comin' over the phone.
Like a rhinestone cowboy
Riding out on a horse in a star-spangled rodeo.
Like a rhinestone cowboy
Gettin' card and letters from people I don't even know...
Rhinestone Cowboy
Glen Campbell's 1975 recording of 'Rhinestone Cowboy' stands as a defining moment in country music history, blending his signature acoustic guitar style with the lush orchestration of Jimmy Webb's composition. Originally written by Webb, the song's narrative of a man seeking redemption through wealth resonated deeply with audiences, propelling Campbell to unprecedented commercial success. The track became a cultural touchstone, winning the Academy Award for Best Original Song and establishing Campbell as a major force in the genre. Its enduring popularity stems from the seamless fusion of Webb's poetic storytelling and Campbell's emotive vocal delivery, creating a recording that remains a cornerstone of the country canon.