More than three decades after the release of Chris LeDoux’s iconic song “This Cowboy’s Hat,” fans were treated to a long-awaited music video. The video was released just weeks after the 13th Annual Chris LeDoux Days, held on June 14th at Harold Jarrard Park in Kaycee, Wyoming, which celebrated the life and legacy of the legendary rodeo star and country singer.
From Rodeo Champion to Country Music Star
Chris LeDoux’s journey began as a hall-of-fame rodeo champion, competing in bareback riding events. During his rodeo career, he started writing music and founded his own recording company, American Cowboy Songs. After winning the bareback world championship at the National Finals Rodeo, LeDoux earned even more credibility as a cowboy singer, blending his rodeo experiences into his music.
In 1980, LeDoux retired from rodeo and transitioned fully into country music according to Last.fm. His fame skyrocketed when Garth Brooks mentioned him in his hit song “Much Too Young (To Feel This Damn Old).” The two later collaborated on the duet “Whatcha Gonna Do with a Cowboy,” which earned them a Grammy nomination.
Though LeDoux passed away in 2005 after a battle with cancer, his legacy has endured. A statue in Kaycee, Wyoming, his music, and the support of family, friends, and fans continue to keep his spirit alive.
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Ned LeDoux Carries on His Father’s Legacy
Chris’s son, Ned LeDoux, has followed in his father’s footsteps, keeping the LeDoux name alive in the music world. Starting as a drummer in his dad’s band, Ned released his solo material, debuting with his 2016 EP Forever a Cowboy. He also performs some of his father’s songs, including “This Cowboy’s Hat.”
“This Cowboy’s Hat” Finally Gets a Music Video
Originally released in 1991 on Chris’s Western Underground album, “This Cowboy’s Hat” tells the story of a cowboy defending his lifestyle and the significance of his hat. Every detail of the hat—from the feather to the rattlesnake band—holds meaning.
A live performance of the song was filmed in February 1997, and 27 years later, his family released an official music video. The video features Ned LeDoux and includes clips of Chris performing live, creating a powerful tribute to the legendary cowboy singer.
