The song "All Around Cowboy" by Waylon Jennings tells the story of a cowboy who has fallen on hard times. He is depicted as a broken-down figure, down on his luck and having lost all of his friends. He travels alone on a long and lonely highway in an old pick-up truck, reminiscent of the hardships he has endured. The cowboy once had a successful career as an all-around cowboy, referring to his talents and achievements in rodeo events. In 1949, he was at the top and considered a winner. However, as the years went by, whiskey and women started taking up his time, leading him astray. They rode him hard and eventually brought him down. Despite his current situation, the cowboy still holds onto the memories and thrill of his past achievements. He dreams of the old rodeo days and longs to be the all-around cowboy once again. He rolls up his smoke and sips on Old Crow whiskey, capturing the essence of a weary cowboy seeking solace in tobacco and alcohol. The song reflects on the transient nature of success and how it can slip away over time. Although the cowboy's victories were exciting and fulfilling at the time, they didn't last forever. He hopes that tomorrow will bring better things if he can only break free from the clutches of the devil and regain his sense of self. In "All Around Cowboy," Waylon Jennings portrays the bittersweet reality of a fallen hero, reminiscing about his glory days while yearning for redemption. The lyrics elicit empathy and understanding for the cowboy's struggles and the desire to reclaim his former greatness.
