Released: 1994
Tim McGraw’s ‘Indian Outlaw’ is a country song that blends humor with a romanticized portrayal of Native American life. The song is a playful narrative about a man who identifies as part Native American, and his love interest, a Chippewa woman.
The first verse introduces the protagonist as an ‘Indian outlaw’, a term often used to describe a rebellious or non-conforming individual. The lyrics mention Cherokee and Choctaw, two prominent Native American tribes, indicating his mixed heritage. His friends call him ‘Bear Claw’, a name that suggests strength and fierceness in Native American culture.
The song also includes references to traditional Native American life. The ‘wigwam’, ‘tom-tom’, and ‘pipe’ are symbols of Native American culture. ‘Walk the line’ is a phrase that means to behave or conform, indicating the matriarchal influence in his family.
In the second verse, the lyrics hint at a romantic relationship. Riding ‘pony double’ suggests closeness, while ‘heart bubble’ and ‘glass of wine’ imply romance. The ‘medicine man’ and ‘Running Water’ add to the Native American imagery, and the ‘headband’ reference could be a nod to traditional Native American attire.
The third verse showcases the protagonist’s hunting skills with ‘arrow’ and ‘hickory bow’, traditional Native American hunting tools. The ‘teepee’ and ‘buffalo briefs’ add a touch of humor, suggesting the protagonist’s popularity.
The final lines, ‘Cherokee people, Cherokee tribe, So proud to live, So proud to die’, serve as a tribute to the Cherokee people’s resilience and pride. Despite the song’s light-hearted tone, these lines convey a deeper respect for Native American heritage.
