Story Behind The Song

I love this song because the guy is really trying hard, and he's not good at picking up women. Anyone can relate to really trying hard at something you want and not being good at it. She gives him a "no", but she sees potential in him. He's not a skilled player/womanizer. And, some woman, somewhere is going to get him, and odds are he'll treat her special. Two of the most important lines are: If you make me feel safe. It is important that a woman feels safe with a man. And, second, if he is really interested in her as a person. If he "tries" to learn about her and genuinely cares about her, then... he's got a Rodeo. And, that Rodeo will be fun! It doesn't matter if he probably uses the same lines on other women. Turn it around to her view. Someone is going to get a chance to be loved by this man who has a heart's desire and who tries hard. There's so few opportunities for good in this life to happen. She shouldn't let it slip away. We all can relate to wanting something or someone, and trying hard. Then, when someone pays attention and says, "Sure, I'll help you" or "I'll meet you half way" or "I'll take a chance on you" or "I'll give you a shot" or "I see you as a worthy person". And, then says, "This will be fun". The doors of life open and your new wings lift you up floating above the ground.

Song Description

I love this song. The idea was that he wanted her and how to write it for her to tactfully say no way, not me, not tonight. But, he's a diamond in the rough. I wrote and created the whole song that way. But listening, I didn't like that he just drove off and went to bed. I needed to give the song some hope. Then I scribbled down that they both are thinking that they will meet again and probably this isn't a one time thing. Then, while driving to play Pickleball, the "Hold up Cowboy" lines came to me. I was driving and scribbling them down as fast as I could. Then, as a songwriter, to turn that "no" into a yes and if they're right for each other, they'll give it a "go", they'll have a Rodeo, and have some fun. Like it should be in life.

Lyrics

Ain't no way You're Ridin' this Rodeo
© 2024 Michael Hanson Cantwell

Verse 1
He tips his hat and flashes a grin,
Says, "Darlin', you know where I've been,
Ridin' through the dusty plains,
But I ain't found a girl like you, no, not the same."

Pre-Chorus
He talks about the stars up in the sky,
Says, "They ain't got nothin' on your eyes,"
But she just rolls hers and sips her tea,
Wonderin' how much longer this will be.

Chorus
"Ain't no way you're ridin' this rodeo,
Not tonight, cowboy, you gotta go!"
"Ain't no way you're ridin' this rodeo,
Not tonight, cowboy, you gotta go!"

Verse 2
He says, "Sugar, I can make you smile,
Just give this ol' cowboy a while,"
She laughs and says, "You're tryin' too hard,
Might as well head back to the barn."

Pre-Chorus
He talks about the moon shining bright,
Says, "Girl, I could hold you all night,"
But she just shakes her head and sighs,
"You got more lines than a Friday night fry."

Chorus
"Ain't no way you're ridin' this rodeo,
Not tonight, cowboy, you gotta go!"
"Ain't no way you're ridin' this rodeo,
Not tonight, cowboy, you gotta go!"

Bridge
He says, "One more drink, what do you say?"
She says, "Nice try, but not today,"
He tips his hat and walks away slow,
Mutterin', "Guess I'll take that as a 'no'."

Chorus
"Ain't no way you're ridin' this rodeo,
Not tonight, cowboy, you gotta go!"
"Ain't no way you're ridin' this rodeo,
Not tonight, cowboy, you gotta go!"

Post Chorus
She says, "Hold up, cowboy, you're pushin' too fast,
I can see you're tryin', but you're not quite there yet.
You've got some nerve, and I'll give you that,
But make me work for it, don't just hand me your hat.
You don't seem like you're after just one night,
So why don't we slow down and get this right?
Give me your number, we'll take it from here,
Maybe I'll find you when my schedule's clear."

Chorus
"Ain't no way you're ridin' this rodeo,
Not tonight, cowboy, you gotta go!"
"Ain't no way you're ridin' this rodeo,
Not tonight, cowboy, you gotta go!"

Outro
He rides off into the night,
He knows this gal's right.
He smiles at what she said,
As he tips his hat and heads to bed