“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.” 

Introduction

If you’ve ever driven down a long highway with a country song blasting on the radio, you know that certain tracks just make the miles fly by. Vince Gill’s What The Cowgirls Do is one of those upbeat tunes that captures the spirit of freedom and fun. Released during the peak of the 90s country music explosion, this song transports listeners into a honky-tonk world where cowgirls rule the dance floor with their fiery moves and carefree attitudes.

About The Composition

  • Title: What The Cowgirls Do
  • Composer: Vince Gill
  • Premiere Date: July 18, 1994
  • Album: When Love Finds You
  • Genre: Country, with elements of honky-tonk and western swing

Background

What The Cowgirls Do was released as the second single from Vince Gill’s album When Love Finds You. By the time the song hit the airwaves in 1994, Gill was already a household name in the country music scene. His distinctive blend of traditional country and contemporary sounds had earned him widespread acclaim, and this song only solidified his position as one of country music’s leading artists. The track was well-received, climbing to number four on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart. The song’s lively energy, coupled with Gill’s smooth vocals and signature guitar riffs, made it a fan favorite and a staple in his live performances.

Musical Style

What The Cowgirls Do showcases Gill’s mastery of blending traditional country with more modern elements. The track is defined by its swinging rhythm and infectious tempo, driven by lively fiddles and twangy electric guitars. The song leans heavily into honky-tonk, a style known for its energetic and danceable beats. The instrumentation here is key to its success, giving listeners the perfect backdrop for imagining a wild, fun-filled night at a country bar. The electric guitar solos, courtesy of Gill himself, add a layer of complexity and flair, demonstrating his skill as both a vocalist and a musician.

Lyrics

The lyrics of What The Cowgirls Do are all about the freedom and fun that comes with living life to the fullest. It paints a vivid picture of confident cowgirls dancing, drinking, and enjoying life without a care in the world. The playful, almost flirtatious tone of the lyrics complements the upbeat rhythm of the music, creating an irresistible combination that makes you want to get up and dance. The theme of embracing the moment and letting loose resonates with fans, especially within the context of country culture.

Performance History

Vince Gill has performed What The Cowgirls Do at numerous concerts and events over the years, often using it as a high-energy number to liven up the crowd. Its catchy melody and danceable rhythm make it a staple in his setlists, particularly at outdoor country music festivals where fans come to hear feel-good, upbeat tracks. Over time, the song has remained a fan favorite, thanks to its infectious energy and Gill’s impeccable performance style.

Cultural Impact

While What The Cowgirls Do may not have had the widespread cultural impact of some of Gill’s ballads or crossover hits, it holds a special place in the country music genre. It’s a track that embodies the fun, carefree side of country music, celebrating the culture of honky-tonk bars, dancing, and the spirit of the American West. For many listeners, it’s a nostalgic reminder of the 90s country scene—a time when artists like Vince Gill dominated the charts with songs that spoke to both the heart and the dance floor.

Legacy

Even decades after its release, What The Cowgirls Do continues to be a highlight in Vince Gill’s discography. It’s a song that has aged well, still drawing crowds and getting airplay on classic country stations. Its enduring popularity speaks to its timeless appeal, and it’s likely that it will continue to be enjoyed by new generations of country music fans.

Conclusion

In What The Cowgirls Do, Vince Gill delivered a lively, fun-filled anthem that perfectly captures the essence of 90s country. Its upbeat tempo, playful lyrics, and honky-tonk feel make it a timeless piece that continues to resonate with fans. If you haven’t already added this to your country playlist, do yourself a favor and listen to it—it’s the kind of song that will have you tapping your feet and longing for a night out on the dance floor. For a truly great experience, check out live performances of the song, where Gill’s energy and musicianship shine even brighter.

Video

Lyrics

Have you ever been down to Texas
And down around San Antone?
They love to go all night and treat you right
And party ’til the cows come home
I love it when they let their hair down
And dance real close to you
You know I’m a sucker, babe, for what the cowgirls do
(What the cowgirls do)
What the cowgirls do (what the cowgirls do)
They ain’t no different up in Oklahoma
They ain’t afraid to stay up ’til dawn
They love to cut and run and chug a lug
Longnecks until their money’s all gone
I love it when they let their hair down
And dance real close to you
You know I’m a sucker, babe, for what the cowgirls do
(What the cowgirls do)
What the cowgirls do (what the cowgirls do)
Shoot that thing
Well, there’s cowgirls all across the country
From Baton Rouge to Bangor Maine
It ain’t hard to see they’ll be the death of me
They’re gonna drive my little heart insane
I love it when they let their hair down
And dance real close to you
You know I’m a sucker, babe, for what the cowgirls do
(What the cowgirls do)
Well, I love it when they let their hair down
And dance real close to you
You know I’m a sucker, babe, for what the cowgirls do
(What the cowgirls do)
What the cowgirls do (what the cowgirls do)
What the cowgirls do (what the cowgirls do)
What the cowgirls do (what the cowgirls do)
What those cowgirls do (what the cowgirls do)
What the cowgirls do
(What the cowgirls do)
What the cowgirls do
(What the cowgirls do)
(What the cowgirls do)
(What the cowgirls do)
(What the cowgirls do)
(What the cowgirls do)
(What the cowgirls do)

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