Soul Circus Cowboys and Eddy Raven Ride Again with Revamped “I Got Mexico”
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
The Southern rock spirit of Soul Circus Cowboys has returned to the country landscape with a fresh twist on a familiar favorite. The Florida-based band, signed to Kismet Nashville, has reimagined Eddy Raven’s chart-topping 1984 hit, “I Got Mexico,” injecting it with a contemporary dance groove while honoring the original’s timeless appeal with a special vocal appearance by Raven himself. This vibrant new rendition is available now across all major digital platforms, promising to introduce the classic track to a new generation of listeners.
“I loved this song as a kid,” shared Soul Circus Cowboys’ lead singer Billy McKnight, his enthusiasm evident. “It was truly a thrill, and honor, working alongside Eddy to re-record the track as a dance mix. The new rendition has a cool groove, with percussion, horns, and strings. This might very well be one of my favorite tracks I’ve ever performed on.”
The track opens with inviting harmonies, immediately setting a relaxed and easygoing tone that mirrors the song’s narrative. The lyrics paint a picture of romantic respite found south of the border, where the sun, sand, and gentle breezes offer solace after a breakup. Produced by Frank Myers, who also co-wrote the original, the “island-flavored jam” evokes the imagery of a picturesque sunset, a postcard farewell to past sorrows.
The reimagined arrangement features a strong, driving rhythm section anchored by moving kick drums and a prominent bassline. Horns and the classic twang of a gut-string guitar weave into the sonic tapestry, creating an ambiance reminiscent of swaying palm trees and the soothing rhythm of the ocean. A Spanish interlude further enhances the authentic Mexican flavor, adding an extra layer of sonic texture.
McKnight’s smooth tenor vocals effortlessly capture the laid-back, contemporary feel of the updated musical landscape, while the return of Eddy Raven’s distinctive voice adds a touch of timeless, old-country charm, bridging the gap between generations of country music fans.
“The re-recording breathes a new sound that brings new life to the song,” Eddy Raven himself commented, clearly pleased with the fresh take. “Soul Circus Cowboys’ vocal performance, the harmonies, and the instrumentation give it a contemporary flavor. It sounds like a whole different song that will attract a new and younger audience.”
The collaboration holds a special significance for both artists and producer. “Eddy has been a mentor to me throughout my career; we’ve written and recorded a lot of music together,” shared Grammy-winning producer and songwriter Frank Myers. “Alternatively, I’ve enjoyed offering my guidance to Billy under my wing through his career. Working alongside Eddy and Billy in the studio brought us full circle, and I think our mutual talents and energy in the song is evident.”
The release of “I Got Mexico” is just the beginning of a series of new music planned from Soul Circus Cowboys throughout 2025. The band is currently putting the final touches on a collection of original tunes slated for release throughout the spring and summer. Adding another visual dimension to the project, a music video for “I Got Mexico” was filmed live at Pier 60 Sugar Sand Fest in Clearwater Beach, Florida, on April 11th, with Eddy Raven joining Soul Circus Cowboys on stage for the performance and filming.
Adding to their promotional efforts, the Tampa-based band embarked on a radio tour beginning April 21st, bringing their new sound to stations across Texas, Oklahoma, and Louisiana.
Soul Circus Cowboys, fronted by the seasoned entertainer Billy McKnight, is a band rooted in the traditions of Southern rock. Their music blends emotive storytelling with classic rock influences and soulful instrumentation, resulting in high-energy live performances that pay homage to their musical heroes like Lynyrd Skynyrd and the Eagles.
Over their career, Soul Circus Cowboys has collaborated extensively with Frank J. Myers, recording four studio albums: “LAY IT DOWN,” “TAILGATE COUNTRY,” “I CAN’T IMAGINE,” and “ROLLING ACROSS AMERICA.” “TAILGATE COUNTRY” saw significant success, breaking into the Top 55 with its title track and reaching #25 on the Billboard Top Country Album Charts. “I CAN’T IMAGINE,” featuring the singles “Believe It” and “I Stand,” also reached the Top 55. Their recent releases, “Sunshine State,” “Knowing That Girl,” and “Because Of The Brave,” have garnered airplay on Great American Country (GAC) and Country Music Television (CMT). The track “If You’re Gonna Leave” peaked at No. 22 on the Billboard Heatseekers Chart, while “Because Of The Brave” landed in the Top 75 on the MusicRow Chart.
Known for their consistent touring schedule, performing an average of 150 shows annually, Soul Circus Cowboys has shared the stage with prominent acts like Big & Rich. The band has also amassed a significant online following, with over 1.3 million Spotify streams and 6 million views on YouTube.
Eddy Raven, a Louisiana native, has been a fixture in the music scene for decades, blending rock, country, Cajun, and blues influences. As a young songwriter for Acuff Rose, he penned hits like “Country Green” and “Touch The Morning” (recorded by Don Gibson), and Jeannie C. Riley recorded his “Good Morning Country Rain.” His talent was quickly recognized by major labels, leading to deals with Elektra (where he recorded his breakthrough song “I Should’ve Called”), RCA, Universal, and Capitol Records.
Raven’s songwriting prowess extends beyond his own recordings. He penned “Thank God For Kids,” a song that found success as a b-side before being famously covered by The Oak Ridge Boys and later by Kenny Chesney and John Rich.
Throughout his distinguished career, Eddy Raven has carved out a unique space in country music, releasing 22 albums, achieving eight No. 1 hits, and landing fourteen singles in the Top 10. His songwriting has been recognized with 30 ASCAP awards, solidifying his legacy as a true stylist and influential figure in the genre. The collaboration with Soul Circus Cowboys on “I Got Mexico” marks an exciting new chapter, bridging the past and present of country music with a vibrant and danceable energy.