Cowboys Cry Too (feat. Kelsea Ballerini)

Noah Kahan's song 'Cowboys Cry Too,' featuring Kelsea Ballerini, delves into the often-overlooked emotional struggles of men who are expected to embody toughness and stoicism. The song challenges the traditional image of the cowboy, a symbol of rugged masculinity, by revealing their hidden vulnerabilities. The lyrics paint a picture of a man who, despite his tough exterior and stubborn nature, harbors deep emotional pain and sensitivity. This duality is captured in the line, 'He's as tough as the tattoos up his right arm,' juxtaposed with 'But when he's showin' his skin, lettin' me in, that's when he's toughest to me.'

The song also explores the generational impact of emotional suppression, particularly in the context of father-son relationships. The narrator reflects on his own upbringing, wishing he could emulate his father's emotional detachment but realizing that such a path only leads to more pain. 'I grew up wishing I could close off the way my dad did,' he sings, highlighting the internal conflict between wanting to appear strong and the inevitable need to confront one's emotions. This struggle is further emphasized by the line, 'But you can't outdrive pain, someday it's gonna take the wheel,' suggesting that avoiding emotional pain is ultimately futile.

Cultural expectations and societal norms play a significant role in shaping the behavior of these 'cowboys.' The song critiques the notion that men must always 'saddle up and be a man,' a phrase that encapsulates the pressure to conform to traditional masculine ideals. By revealing that 'cowboys cry too,' Kahan and Ballerini aim to dismantle these stereotypes and encourage a more nuanced understanding of masculinity. The song's emotional depth and poignant lyrics serve as a powerful reminder that vulnerability is not a sign of weakness but a testament to true strength.