Don't Fence Me In
Nickel Creek · Little Cowpoke
Oh give me land, lots of land under starry skies above
Don't fence me in
Let me ride through the wide open country that I love
Don't fence me in
Let me be by myself in the evening breeze
Listen to the murmur of the cottonwood trees
Send me off forever but I ask you please
Don't fence me in
Just turn me loose
Let me straddle my old saddle underneath the Western skies
On my cayuse
Let me wander over yonder 'til I see the mountains rise
I want to ride to the ridge where the West commences
Gaze about the moon until I lose my senses
Can't look at hobbles and I can't stand fences
Don't fence me in
Just turn me loose
Let me straddle my old saddle underneath the Western skies
On my cayuse
Let me wander over yonder 'til I see the mountains rise
I want to ride to the ridge where the West commences
Gaze about the moon until I lose my senses
Can't look at hobbles and I can't stand fences
Don't fence me in
Don't fence me in
Don't you fence me in
Don't Fence Me In
Nickel Creek's rendition of 'Don't Fence Me In' appears on their 2002 album Little Cowpoke, a record that marked a distinct departure from their earlier, more intricate folk arrangements. The band, consisting of siblings Sara and Sean Watkins alongside Chris Thile, embraced a looser, more traditional country and western aesthetic for this project. This cover of the classic Cole Porter standard fits seamlessly within the album's thematic exploration of the American West, showcasing the group's ability to reinterpret established material through their signature instrumental prowess. The recording highlights the ensemble's dynamic interplay and their capacity to blend bluegrass instrumentation with broader Americana influences, solidifying their reputation as versatile interpreters of the genre.