There’s something about the vast West Texas landscape that stirs the soul – a desolate beauty punctuated by nodding pumpjacks and towering derricks. It’s this stark reality that Ben Thompson, the creative force behind Barefoot with a Stetson, captures with unflinching honesty in his latest single, “West Texas Oil Fields.”
Thompson isn’t your typical musician. By day, he’s the founder and CEO of a truck logistics company and a senior VP for a multi-state automotive repair company. But when the boardroom lights dim, his creative spirit emerges through authentic storytelling that blends outlaw country with tropical rock vibes – a curious combination he’s made his signature.
“I was challenged by one of my personal friends to create a song using the hit TV show ‘Landman’ as the inspiration,” Thompson explains when asked about the genesis of “West Texas Oil Fields.” The song grew from that challenge, becoming his favorite among five tracks inspired by the series.
Released on April 17, 2025, “West Texas Oil Fields” doesn’t romanticize the oil patch. Instead, it portrays the gritty reality of life with the unvarnished truth of someone who understands what it means to build something from nothing. Thompson’s lyrics make no apologies for the demanding nature of oil field work. There’s a refreshing directness as he warns listeners that this life “ain’t for the lazy or weak of heart.”
What makes Ben Thompson’s perspective unique is his background. Growing up in rural Southwest Arkansas, he was introduced to music through his grandfather, who gave him his first guitar. Though he never pursued music professionally, Thompson built an impressive guitar collection and developed a passion for songwriting that serves as his creative outlet from the demands of his business ventures.
“I essentially work nonstop 7 days a week and travel extensively for work,” Thompson shares. “I use music as the ‘release’ and it is really a hobby. I never set out to make money with music.” This absence of commercial pressure perhaps explains the authentic feel of “West Texas Oil Fields.” There’s no pandering to radio formats or trend-chasing – just honest storytelling delivered with conviction.
The production of the track balances raw energy with polish, creating a sound that would feel at home on a dusty jukebox in a Midland bar or streaming through earbuds on a cross-country drive. The arrangement gives Thompson’s descriptive lyrics room to breathe while the driving rhythm mirrors the relentless pace of patch life.
Thompson hopes listeners connect with the song’s underlying message of resilience. “I think it is similar to the show… It’s a rough and tough world, and you need to be gritty and tough to survive or really thrive,” he explains.
If “West Texas Oil Fields” strikes a chord with you, there’s much more to discover from Barefoot with a Stetson. Thompson’s unique blend of outlaw country and tropical rock offers something for listeners who appreciate authentic storytelling and distinctive sound. Visit barefootwithastetson.com to explore his complete discography, follow upcoming releases, and check out the tropical lifestyle apparel he’s developing. You can also find him on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook – proving that even in the digital age, there’s still room for a barefoot dreamer in a Stetson hat.
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