This song takes me back to a hike on Mt. Whitney with my friend Jordan. We were tackling the tough trail, with the air getting thinner, but the music kept us going. We didn’t quite make the top but we had a blast fighting our way up the mountain and listening to albums by Sons of the Pioneers, Marty Robbins, and Burl Ives, soaking in the old cowboy tunes. “Empty Saddles” off Songs of the West has stuck with me the most. I bought this album on vinyl years ago, and it’s become a go to whenever I need get closer to the spirit of the West.

Burl Ives was a multi-talented figure, known for his folk singing, acting, and storytelling. His deep baritone voice made him a beloved performer, and he became a household name through his roles in film, TV, and music. Ives was also pivotal in preserving Western ballads, and his album Songs of the West is a prime example of how he brought cowboy tunes to a new generation. His ability to sing these songs with such authenticity made them feel timeless.

Empty Saddles captures the sorrow of a cowboy mourning the loss of a friend. This song was written by Billy Hill in the 1930s and was based off a poem by J. Keirn Brennan. In 1936 Bing Crosby recorded a version for a Paramount musical called Rhythm on the Range. This recording took it from an obscure new song to a household hit. Ives’ version is my favorite by far. He adds a layer of deep emotion, with his voice echoing the loneliness and grief of a lone rider. It’s not just a song of personal loss; it’s a reflection of the hard life of a cowboy, where death and departure were part of the journey.

Songs of the West is a fantastic album. From start to finish, it immerses you in the world of cowboys and pioneers, with Ives’ voice bringing each track to life. The music is simple but powerful, and it carries the essence of the Old West onward. Burl Ives’ storytelling through song keeps the spirit of this era alive for anyone willing to listen.

I hope you enjoy this great cowboy tune!

Empty saddles in the old corral
Where do you ride tonight
Are you roundin’ up the doggies, the strays of long ago
Are you on the trail of buffalo

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Empty saddles in the old corral
Where do you ride tonight
Are there rustlers on the border or a band of Navajo
Are you headin’ for the Alamo

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Empty guns covered with rust
Where do you talk tonight
Empty boots covered with dust
Where do you walk tonight

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Empty saddles in the old corral
My tears would be dried tonight
If you’ll only say I’m lonely as you carry my old pal
Empty saddles in the old corral

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My name is Michael Sanchez and I’m an avid record collector and obscure song searcher. My goal is to post (hopefully) one song a day that’s been on my stereo/turntable frequently. If you don’t like the song… too bad 🙂 You can just wait for the next one. I do use A.I. here and there to help with writing and grammar. All the info I find is from wikipedia/youtube/interviews/news articles/personal stories I’ve heard/random googling. If you notice any mistakes, let me know or just keep it inside and be mad. Thanks!

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