I heard some cowboy music by a fellow named RW Hampton for the first time this week. I had seen his CD's advertised in Western Horseman for a long time, but had never heard anyone say anything about him. All I can say is, why haven't I heard about him before? The guy is great! If you like traditional cowboy, as opposed to "Nashville country/cowboy" I think you'll enjoy Mr. Hampton.

(Or maybe I've been under a rock and everyone already knows about this but me? That would be probably be more like it )

He's been around awhile. I really like his music. He's either a Texas or New Mexico puncher if I remember. He's in a few photos The North American Cowboy: A Portrait, and also a book called Last of a Breed. If you ever see an old 1980's TV movie with Kenny Rogers about a cattle drive, Hampton sings Ghost Riders in the Sky in it. Maybe the movie was called Wild Horses or something? Terrible movie. Good songwriter though.

RW is a friend of mine and is the "REAL DEAL" he operates a ranch near Cimarron, New Mexico in the NE corner of the state. A nicer guy has never breathed. He is also a "hand" with a rope and a horse.

If you ever get an opportunity to see him perform, don't let it pass........

We like RW a bunch too. We've seen him in big places and small venues, and he's as good a guy as there is. If you like RW, a few others to consider - Dave Stamey (www.davestamey.com), Richard Elloyan (www.richardelloyan.net) , Adrian (www.buckaroogirl.com). We like them all.