In today's episode of the Fully Armed Podcast, our host Chris Hennessee welcomes two legendary guests: Cowboy Eddie Long, also known as Clifford Edward Long, and Wayne "Animal" Turner. Known for their remarkable contributions to country music, these two have played with some of the biggest names in the industry, including Hank Williams Jr. and Jamie Johnson. Chris has known Cowboy and Animal for many years, having toured together with Jimmy Johnson for over a decade. This episode promises a wealth of stories and insights from their illustrious careers.

A Musical Journey Begins

Cowboy Eddie Long's journey with the steel guitar began at the age of 15, just two months after his mother passed away. The night after her funeral, Cowboy found solace in music. He vividly remembers listening to a Charlie Pride song on an old RCA stereo, a moment that sparked his lifelong passion for the steel guitar. Despite facing a tragic car accident at 16, which left him with a broken neck, Cowboy turned this adversity into a blessing. The accident confined him to bed for six months, during which he practiced playing the steel guitar for 12 to 18 hours a day.

The Bama Band and Hank Williams Jr.

Cowboy's career took a significant turn when he joined the Bama Band, the touring band for Hank Williams Jr. Known for their dynamic performances and close-knit camaraderie, the Bama Band became a household name. Cowboy recalls the rigorous audition process, which included performing under high-pressure situations, such as setting up his steel guitar amidst chaos and even breaking it down swiftly when a life-threatening situation arose. His ability to handle these high-stress moments proved instrumental in securing his place in the band.

The Rollercoaster of Touring Life

Touring with Hank Williams Jr. was an adventure filled with highs and lows. Cowboy recounts a terrifying incident where a man burst onto the stage with a gun, forcing him to disassemble his steel guitar in record time. Another harrowing moment involved witnessing a band member nearly take his own life due to personal turmoil. These experiences, while daunting, forged a bond among the band members and underscored the unpredictable nature of life on the road.

Life After Touring

Despite the glamor and excitement, the demands of touring took a toll on Cowboy. After leaving Hank Williams Jr. in 1995, he struggled with alcoholism, a battle that lasted until 2007. His turning point came one night in a bar when he saw a reflection of himself as a dead man in a mirror. This vision prompted him to seek help and turn his life around. Through prayer and determination, Cowboy overcame his addiction and embarked on a path to sobriety.

Reflections on Faith and Redemption

Cowboy's journey is a testament to the power of faith and redemption. He credits his recovery to divine intervention, describing a moment of spiritual cleansing that set him free from his addiction. His story serves as an inspiration to those facing similar struggles, illustrating that it is never too late to seek help and find a new direction in life.


This episode of the Fully Armed Podcast offers a deep dive into the lives and careers of Cowboy Eddie Long and Wayne "Animal" Turner. From their early beginnings to their tumultuous years on the road and eventual redemption, their stories are ones of resilience and faith. Tune in to hear more about their incredible journeys and the lessons they have learned along the way. Follow us for more inspiring episodes and stay tuned for new content wherever you listen to podcasts.