Back when the West was very young
There lived a man named Masterson
He wore a cane and derby hat
They called him Bat Bat Masterson
A man of steel the stories say
But women’s eyes all glanced his way
A gambler’s game he always won
His name was Bat Bat Masterson
The trail that he blazed is still there
No one has come since to replace his name
And those with too ready a trigger
Forgot to figure on his lightning cane
Now in the legend of the west
One name stands out of all the rest
The man who had the fastest gun
His name was Bat Bat Masterson
Official Theme Video
Behind the Lyrics: Meaning & Story
The Bat Masterson theme song, composed by Havens Wray (also known as David D. Rose), captured the adventurous spirit of the American Old West. Premiering on NBC on October 8, 1958, the show brought to life the legendary exploits of a lawman and gambler who stood out for his signature style: a derby hat and a gold-tipped “lightning cane.”
Performed by Bill Lee, the theme serves as a musical chronicle of Masterson’s transition from a “man of steel” to a Western legend. Over its three-season, 108-episode run, the lyrics reinforced the image of a sophisticated hero who used his wit and cane just as effectively as his gun. The production team, including Frederick W. Ziv, ensured the show remained a high-energy staple of the Western genre until its final episode on June 1, 1961.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who sang the Bat Masterson theme song?
The theme song was performed by Bill Lee.
What was Bat Masterson’s signature weapon mentioned in the song?
The song highlights his “lightning cane,” which he used as both a defensive tool and a symbol of his dapper persona.
How many seasons of Bat Masterson were produced?
The show ran for a total of three seasons, consisting of 108 episodes on NBC.
