Some songs tell a story, and then some songs bring you into the story. “Mule of Mine“, the latest track from Robbie Rapids, does exactly that—pulling listeners into a whimsical, foot-stomping journey about a farmer, his missing mule, and the surprising joys of ditching work for a little fun. Released on January 31, 2025, this track is a unique blend of spaghetti western, country, and rock & roll, making for an infectious, toe-tapping experience that sticks with you long after the final note.
At its core, “Mule of Mine” is a story song, co-written by book author Tony Tiffin and Robbie Rapids. The premise? A hard-working farmer’s mule goes on an unexpected adventure, winding up in a country club pool instead of putting in a day’s labor. Initially frustrated, the farmer sets out to find his “Fool Mule of Mine,” only to realize—maybe the mule had the right idea all along. As the chorus evolves from frustration to admiration, the farmer embraces the laid-back lifestyle, finally calling his runaway companion a “Cool Mule of Mine.”
The charm of “Mule of Mine” isn’t just in its playful, storytelling lyrics—it’s in the music itself. Taking inspiration from classic spaghetti westerns, the song is packed with cinematic twangy guitar riffs, baritone electric textures, and a rhythm that rolls like a horse galloping across the dusty plains. This marks Robbie Rapids‘ first foray into country rock, and he fully commits, delivering an authentic yet quirky performance that blends humor with old-school western grit.
For those unfamiliar with Robbie Rapids, he’s a Generation X rocker whose name originates from the city on his birth certificate. Known for his love of classic rock, this track showcases his versatility, proving that his sound can stretch far beyond traditional rock & roll. On “Mule of Mine“, Robbie took charge of vocals, baritone electric guitar, two blazing guitar solos, simulated trumpet, and drum arrangement, ensuring that his personal touch is felt throughout.
Of course, no great track comes together alone. David Levene, an experienced musician and producer, played a crucial role in shaping “Mule of Mine.” Best known as the lead guitarist of the psychedelic rock band Laghonia, Levene has been a staple in the Atlanta music scene since the ‘90s, running Big Sound Productions ATL. On this track, Levene provided banjo, bass, additional electric guitar parts, and the overall production/mixing, adding rich textures that bring the song to life.
The origins of “Mule of Mine” are just as intriguing as the song itself. Tony Tiffin, author of the true-crime novel Arc Road, originally conceived the idea. Handing the first verse and chorus over to Rapids, he gave the simple instruction: “See if you can do something with this.” What followed was a collaborative effort that turned a simple concept into an unforgettable tune—one that feels like it could be the soundtrack to a classic western film with a comedic twist.
The song’s lighthearted energy, combined with its catchy melodies and clever storytelling, makes “Mule of Mine” a perfect anthem for those who believe in working hard but also know the value of cutting loose every once in a while. It’s got just the right balance of old-school charm and modern edge, making it appealing to rock, country, and Americana fans alike.
So, whether you’re hitting the open road, kicking back with a drink, or just in need of a song that doesn’t take itself too seriously, “Mule of Mine” is ready to ride along with you.
And who knows? After a few listens, you just might find yourself rethinking that Friday shift in favor of a little poolside relaxation—just like the Cool Mule.
