Out On The Western Plain
Rory Gallagher Lyrics


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When I was a cowboy out on the Western Plain.
When I was a cowboy out on the Western Plain.
Well, I made a half a million,
Working hard on the bridle reins.

Come a cow-cow yicky. come a cow-cow yicky, yicky yea.

What was the greatest battle ever on the Western Plain?
What was the greatest battle ever on the Western Plain?
When me and a bunch of cowboys rode into Jesse James.

Come a cow-cow yicky, come a cow-cow yicky, yicky yea.
Come a cow-cow yicky, come a cow-cow yicky, yicky yea.

Now me and a bunch of cowboys rode into Jesse James.
When me and a bunch of cowboys rodc into Jesse James.
Well, those bullets were a-flying just like a shower of rain.

Come a cow-cow ylcky come a cow-cow yicky, yicky yea.
Come a cow-cow ylcky come a cow-cow yicky, yicky yea.

What was the greatest battle ever on Bunker Hill?
What was the greatest battle ever on Bunker Hill?
When me and a bunch of cowboys rode into Buffalo Bill.





Come a cow-cow yicky, come a cow-cow yicky, yicky yea.
Come a cow-cow ylcky, come a cow-cow yicky, yicky yea.

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of Rory Gallagher's song "Out On The Western Plain" depict the experiences of a cowboy on the Western plains. The repetition of the opening line reinforces the singer's identity as a cowboy and his past life on the vast and open Western Plain. The line "Well, I made a half a million, working hard on the bridle reins" indicates that the singer was able to accumulate wealth during his time as a cowboy. This highlights the dedication and hard work required in the cowboy lifestyle, where success is measured in the accumulation of wealth.


The repeated refrain "Come a cow-cow yicky, come a cow-cow yicky, yicky yea" serves as a rallying cry, symbolizing the energy and excitement of the cowboy lifestyle. It captures the spirit of camaraderie and unity among cowboys as they work together on the plains.


The lyrics then shift to a discussion of battles on the Western Plain. The rhetorical question "What was the greatest battle ever on the Western Plain?" indicates the singer's fascination with the history and legends of the Wild West. The mention of riding into Jesse James suggests a confrontation between the singer and the notorious outlaw. The image of bullets flying like a "shower of rain" conveys the danger and intensity of the encounter, hinting at the violence and chaos that often characterized the era.


The final part of the song mentions another notable battle, this time on Bunker Hill. This Battle of Bunker Hill refers to a significant event in American history during the Revolutionary War. The singer's association with this battle signifies his knowledge and involvement in the larger history of the Wild West. The mention of riding into Buffalo Bill alludes to an encounter with the famous showman and scout, adding to the iconic nature of the singer's experiences as a cowboy.


Overall, "Out On The Western Plain" presents a nostalgic and mythological portrayal of the cowboy lifestyle, highlighting the challenges, comradery, and adventurous spirit of those who lived on the Western Plain. It celebrates the history and legends of the Wild West while capturing the essence of a bygone era.


Line by Line Meaning

When I was a cowboy out on the Western Plain.
During a period in my life when I was working as a cowboy in the vast open plains of the West.


Well, I made a half a million, Working hard on the bridle reins.
Through diligent labor and commitment to my job of handling the reins while riding, I managed to accumulate a substantial amount of money, reaching up to five hundred thousand units.


Come a cow-cow yicky. come a cow-cow yicky, yicky yea.
An expression signifying the presence and excitement of cows while emphasizing their characteristic vocalization sounds.


What was the greatest battle ever on the Western Plain?
Regarding historical confrontations that took place in the vast, open expanse of the Western Plain, which among them stands as the most significant and remarkable?


When me and a bunch of cowboys rode into Jesse James.
During a particular occasion, my companions and I, as a group of cowboys, rode into the presence of the renowned figure named Jesse James.


Well, those bullets were a-flying just like a shower of rain.
The projectiles discharged from firearms were soaring through the air swiftly and densely, resembling an intense and continuous precipitation of raindrops.


What was the greatest battle ever on Bunker Hill?
Concerning conflicts that occurred in the historical location known as Bunker Hill, which particular encounter stands out as the most significant and impactful?


When me and a bunch of cowboys rode into Buffalo Bill.
During a specific instance, myself and a group of fellow cowboys embarked on a journey to encounter the famous persona named Buffalo Bill.




Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
Written by: Huddie Ledbetter

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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Comments from YouTube:

@dwaynewladyka577

The one, the only Rory Gallagher. A fantastic performance. May he rest in peace. Cheers!

@danielfalaschiffyluncuyo5505

I am ready to buy it as soon as it's released officially.

@paulvale2985

I was lucky enough to see Rory live back in the day and I consider myself lucky today that the Internet keeps Rory alive. Thanks for the post. 🔥🎸

@victorav629

He could play anything he wanted. Just my favorite guitarist ever. Genius.

@MikeysMorgue

Listen to Rory tickle those strings! 😆🎸🔥

@sonjadietz5297

Not a Day goes by, that I don´t hear Rory ....I will always admire him ! Greats from Germany

@gerhardkonig4550

Sonja - I'm a big Rory fan surely - but YOU are OUTSTANDING!!!! Keep the flame and keep it real!!!!!

@annkearns7175

🎸Although he may have moved on to join ‘Heaven’s House Band’ the music he has left for all of us to enjoy will last forever.Rory was never a man of many words on Stage-he often introduced a song by saying modestly,”Here’s a tune you may like “and when he finished -it would be “thanks a million “.

@lillyk2315

Hallo Ann!!!Yes, he didn't speak so much, but his smile, was hundreds of words ❤❤❤❤❤❤

@annkearns7175

@@lillyk2315Hi Lilly,Rory had the most gorgeous smile,have a good w/end❤

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