Pantera was an American heavy metal band formed in the early 1980s, originally characterized by a glam metal sound before evolving into a much heavier groove metal style.
Their core lineup included Phil Anselmo on vocals, Dimebag Darrell on guitar, Rex Brown on bass, and Vinnie Paul on drums.
With their aggressive tone and technical skill, Pantera became one of the most influential metal bands of the 1990s. Known for their intense live performances and crushing riffs, they left a lasting mark on modern heavy metal.
About the Song
Cowboys from Hell is about a group arriving in a new place with bold confidence, ready to take over and make their mark. It uses wild west imagery to show a fearless attitude and a sense of power.
The lyrics celebrate being unstoppable, causing chaos, and standing tall against anyone who challenges them. This theme is all about strength, rebellion, and making a strong impact wherever you go.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Release Date | July 24, 1990 |
| Album | Official Live: 101 Proof (1997) |
| Writer | Rex Brown, Vinnie Paul, Dimebag Darrell & Phil Anselmo |
| Producer | Vinnie Paul, Dimebag Darrell, Phil Anselmo, Rex Brown & Terry Date |
Complete Cowboys from Hell Lyrics
Intro
Ohh, come on
Verse 1
Under the lights where we stand tall
Nobody touches us at all
Showdown, shootout
Spread fear within, without
I say we’re gonna take what’s ours to have
Spread the word throughout the land
They say the bad guys wear black
We’re tagged and can’t turn back
Pre-Chorus
You see us comin’
And you all together run for cover
We’re takin’ over this town
Chorus
Here we come, reach for your gun
And you better listen well, my friend
You see, it’s been slow down below
Aimed at you, we’re the cowboys from hell
Deed is done; again, we’ve won
Ain’t talkin’ no tall tales, friend
‘Cause high noon, your doom
Comin’ for you, we’re the cowboys from hell
Verse 2
Oh, pillage the village, trash the scene
But better not take it out on me
‘Cause a ghost town is found
Where your city used to be
So out of the darkness and into the light
Sparks fly everywhere in sight
From my double-barrel, 12 gauge
Can’t lock me in your cage
Pre-Chorus
You see us comin’
And you all together run for cover
We’re takin’ over this town
Chorus
Here we come, reach for your gun
And you better listen well, my friend
You see, it’s been slow down below
Aimed at you, we’re the cowboys from hell
Deed is done, again we’ve won
Ain’t talkin’ no tall tales, friend
‘Cause high noon, your doom
We’re coming for you, we’re the cowboys from hell
Guitar Solo
Chorus
Here we come, reach for your gun
And you better listen well, my friend
You see, it’s been slow down below
Aimed at you, we’re the cowboys from hell
Deed is done; again, we’ve won
Ain’t talkin’ no tall tales, friend
‘Cause high noon, your doom
Comin’ for you, we’re the cowboys from hell
Outro
Ow
Step aside for the cowboys from hell
Similar Songs Like Cowboys from Hell
For fans of hard-hitting metal and unstoppable energy, these tracks deliver the same excitement and power as Cowboys from Hell.
- Walk: This anthem grabs your attention with a steady, stomping riff and a message about respect. It’s heavy, direct, and unforgettable.
- Domination: Starting with a clean guitar build, this track explodes into chaos. It’s aggressive, sharp, and perfect for fans of hard-hitting metal.
- I’m Broken: Built around a jagged groove and raw vocals, this song speaks to emotional pain and survival. It’s a powerful, personal, and honest song.
Similar Artists Like Pantera
For fans who love heavy metal and groove, these bands offer the same intense and bold spirit.
- Slayer
Genre: Thrash Metal
Top albums: Reign in Blood (1986), Seasons in the Abyss (1990), South of Heaven (1988), God Hates Us All (2001) - Machine Head
Genre: Groove Metal / Heavy Metal
Top albums: Burn My Eyes (1994), The More Things Change… (1997), The Blackening (2007), Unto the Locust (2011) - Lamb of God
Genre: Groove Metal / Metalcore
Top albums: Ashes of the Wake (2004), Sacrament (2006), Resolution (2012), Lamb of God (2020) - Sepultura
Genre: Groove Metal / Thrash / Death Metal
Top albums: Chaos A.D. (1993), Roots (1996), Arise (1991), Beneath the Remains (1989) - Down
Genre: Sludge Metal / Southern Metal
Top albums: NOLA (1995), Down II: A Bustle in Your Hedgerow (2002), Down III: Over the Under (2007), Down IV – Part I (2012)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Meaning of Cowboys from Hell?
The song’s meaning centers on the band’s powerful entrance into the heavy metal scene from Texas, using “cowboys” as a metaphor for their bold arrival and dominance.
Is Cowboys from Hell a Satanic Song?
It is not a satanic song; “hell” is used for dramatic effect, and the lyrics focus on attitude and impact, not satanic themes.
How did Cowboys from Hell Originate?
The song originated from a riff created by Dimebag Darrell, first played at a party, and was quickly recognized by the band as a strong anthem.
