Introduction
Chris LeDoux’s “This Cowboy’s Hat” is a quintessential anthem of Western pride and personal identity, capturing the essence of cowboy culture and the deep-rooted significance of tradition. Released in 1991 as part of his album Western Underground, the song was penned by Jake Brooks and quickly became one of LeDoux’s signature tracks. Its narrative centers on a cowboy who, while enjoying a drink in a bar, faces ridicule from a group of bikers mocking his cowboy hat. Instead of backing down, the cowboy stands firm, explaining that his hat is more than an accessory—it’s a symbol of his heritage, his father’s legacy, and the struggles of cowboy life. The song emphasizes themes of respect, tradition, and the importance of standing one’s ground.
Despite its popularity, “This Cowboy’s Hat” did not have an official music video at the time of its release. That changed in 2024, when, 33 years later, LeDoux’s family and UMG Nashville unveiled the first-ever official music video for the song. The video, directed by Jeff Carter, features a Western setting with flashback images that honor the courage and honor of the cowboy, aligning with the song’s themes. Notably, Ned LeDoux, Chris’s son, appears in the video, connecting the past and present generations. The video was debuted at Friends In Low Places Bar & Honky Tonk in Nashville, coinciding with the song’s recognition with a Platinum certification by the RIAA .
The release of the music video not only brought new life to the song but also introduced it to a new generation of fans. As of early 2025, the video has garnered over 17 million views, making it one of LeDoux’s most-watched videos on YouTube . This resurgence underscores the enduring appeal of Chris LeDoux’s music and the timeless message of “This Cowboy’s Hat.”
