What makes Flying Cowboys by Rickie Lee Jones notable?

The album received positive critical acclaim, with particular praise for its songwriting and production quality. It showcased a blend of genres that influenced the alternative rock scene of the late 80s, while also charting well on the Billboard 200, peaking at number 20. Released in 1989, 'Flying Cowboys' marked Rickie Lee Jones' fifth studio album and came after the commercial success of her previous works. At this point in her career, Jones was navigating a transition towards a more polished sound while still maintaining her signature lyrical depth and narrative style.

Who is Flying Cowboys for?

Flying Cowboys works well if you're into steady mid-tempo reflective moments, introspective lyrics for deep thinking and rich melodies for evening relaxation.

How many songs are on Flying Cowboys?

Flying Cowboys has 11 tracks, running approximately 55 minutes.

Flying Cowboys

Rickie Lee Jones · 1989

55 min · 11 tracks · pop music

A fusion of pop sensibilities and rock textures, woven together with introspective storytelling and eclectic musical influences.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Horses — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its haunting melodies and vivid imagery, encapsulating Jones' narrative style.
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Ghetto of My Mind — A reflective exploration of personal struggles and societal issues, this song highlights Jones' ability to blend storytelling with emotional resonance.
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Rodeo Girl — With its catchy hooks and playful lyrics, this track exemplifies Jones’ knack for fusing humor with deeper themes of longing and identity.
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Flying Cowboys — The title track offers an introspective journey that encapsulates the album's overarching themes of freedom and self-discovery through its evocative lyrics.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong songwriting and production, with varied tempos and rich instrumentation throughout.

What we noticed

The first three tracks feature a consistent mid-tempo groove, while the fourth track introduces a faster pace with a more upbeat rhythm.
Several songs incorporate layered instrumentation, blending acoustic and electric elements to create a rich soundscape.
The album closes with two tracks that gradually slow down, creating a reflective atmosphere as it concludes.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo reflective moments
introspective lyrics for deep thinking
rich melodies for evening relaxation
consistent journey through emotions
thoughtful soundscapes for quiet times

Maybe skip if you

seeking fast-paced instant gratification
prefer standalone tracks over cohesion

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1989, 'Flying Cowboys' marked Rickie Lee Jones' fifth studio album and came after the commercial success of her previous works. At this point in her career, Jones was navigating a transition towards a more polished sound while still maintaining her signature lyrical depth and narrative style.
Stylistic neighbors: Joni Mitchell· Nina Simone· Steely Dan