Cowboys Don't Shoot Straight (Like They Used To)

Tammy Wynette · Tears of Fire: The 25th Anniversary Collection [Epic] [1992]

Big silver buckles and pre-faded jeans

White knuckle rides on the bucking machine

He rode into my life looking just like a sunset

Turned out to be a bad dream I'd like to forget



Cowboys don't shoot straight like they used to

They'll look you in the eye and lie with their white hats on

Cowboys don't shoot straight like they used to

It's just wham bam, thank you ma'm and they're gone



I traded my boots and saddle for a ticket to Seattle

Get me off from underneath these western skies

I'm tired of old blue jeans and if I hear one more

'Howdy, little lady', well I think I'm gonna scream



Cowboys don't shoot straight like they used to

They'll look you in the eye and lie with their white hats on

Cowboys don't shoot straight like they used to

It's just wham bam, thank you ma'm and they're gone



Don't shoot straight like they used to



Cowboys don't shoot straight like they used to

They'll look you in the eye and lie with their white hats on

Cowboys don't shoot straight like they used to

It's just wham bam, thank you ma'm and they're gone

Cowboys Don't Shoot Straight (Like They Used To)

Tammy Wynette's 'Cowboys Don't Shoot Straight (Like They Used To)' stands as a testament to her enduring legacy within country music. Recorded during a period where she continued to explore themes of heartbreak and shifting societal norms, the track reflects her signature ability to articulate emotional vulnerability. As a key figure in the genre, Wynette built a vast discography that defined the sound of female country singers for decades. This recording captures her distinct vocal style, blending traditional country instrumentation with lyrical narratives that resonated deeply with audiences. The song remains a notable song in her extensive catalogue, showcasing the artistic consistency that earned her the title of the First Lady of Country Music. It serves as a reminder of her profound influence on the genre's evolution and her lasting impact on musical storytelling.