‘Land of Enchantment’: A Ballad to the American Cowboy

New Mexico’s official state ballad, written by classic country star Michael Martin Murphey, keeps the spirit of the American cowboy alive.
‘Land of Enchantment’: A Ballad to the American Cowboy
"The Rock of Acoma, New Mexico,"1902, by Thomas Moran. "The Land of Enchantment" written by Michael Martin Murphey was adopted as New Mexico's state ballad. Public Domain
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Country-western singer Michael Martin Murphey is most well-known for his platinum hit, “Wildfire.” Throughout the past 41 years, he’s boldly experimented with many genres, all while staying true to his cowboy roots. With multiple hits and many awards under his belt, he continues to stand out from the country crowd as someone equal parts horseman and troubadour.
One of his more eclectic songs, “Land of Enchantment,” exemplifies his skill and grace as a composer. It effortlessly blends genres together while weaving an enchanting tale—two artistic talents that best represent Murphey’s prolific catalog of originals. Since its release in the late 1980s, the single has gone on to represent the enduring spirit of the cowboys of the American Southwest.

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Rebecca Day
Rebecca Day
Author
Rebecca Day is a freelance writer and independent musician. For more information on her music and writing, visit her Substack, Classically Cultured, at classicallycultured.substack.com