Roy Rogers rides his beloved horse Trigger while filming the music video for the song ”Cool Water” in 1945

About the song

## Cool Water: A Timeless Ballad of Thirst and Survival

Roy Rogers, the “King of Cowboys,” recorded “Cool Water” in 1944. This classic ballad, with its haunting melody and evocative lyrics, has become a staple of country music and a beloved anthem of the American West.

The song’s narrative revolves around the theme of thirst and survival in the harsh, arid landscape of the desert. The protagonist, a weary traveler, longs for the refreshing coolness of water amidst the scorching heat and relentless sun. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the physical and emotional toll that dehydration takes on the body, as well as the hope and relief that comes with finally finding a source of water.

The simplicity of the song’s structure belies its emotional depth. The repeating chorus, “Cool water, cool water, all I want is cool water,” serves as a powerful refrain that drives home the central theme of the song. The verses offer glimpses into the traveler’s journey, describing the hardships he faces and the dreams of respite that keep him going.

Rogers’ distinctive baritone voice lends a sense of authenticity and gravitas to the song. His delivery is both heartfelt and restrained, allowing the lyrics to speak for themselves. The instrumental accompaniment, featuring a simple guitar and fiddle, complements the song’s rustic charm and evokes the sounds of the American frontier.

“Cool Water” has endured as a timeless classic due to its universal appeal. The song’s themes of thirst, survival, and the enduring human spirit resonate with audiences of all ages and backgrounds. It is a testament to the power of music to evoke emotions and tell stories that transcend time and place.

Video

Lyrics

All day I’ve faced the barren waste
Without the taste of water, cool water
Old Dan and I with throats burned dry
And souls that cry for water, cool, clear water

[Chorus]
Keep a-movin’, Dan, don’t you listen to him, Dan
He’s a devil not a man
And he spreads the burning sand with water
Dan can you see that big green tree
Where the water’s runnin’ free
And it’s waiting there for you and me

The nights are cool and I’m a fool
Each star’s a pool of water, cool water
But with the dawn I’ll wake and yawn
And carry on to water, cool, clear, water

The shadows sway and seem to say
Tonight we pray for water, cool, water
And way up there He’ll hear our prayer
And show us where there’s water, cool, clear, water

Dan’s feet are sore he’s yearning for
Just one thing more than water, cool, water
Like me I guess he’d like to rest
Where there’s no quest for water, cool, clear, water