The Highwaymen – City of New Orleans

About the song

“The City of New Orleans,” performed by The Highwaymen, is a tribute to the rich tapestry of American life and travel, capturing the essence of folk music with a heartfelt narrative. Originally written by Steve Goodman, the song gained prominence when Arlo Guthrie recorded it in 1972. The Highwaymen, consisting of Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, and Kris Kristofferson, later included their rendition on their 1985 album titled simply “Highwayman.”

Steve Goodman’s composition paints a vivid picture of a train journey on the Illinois Central Railroad, known as the City of New Orleans, traveling from Chicago to New Orleans. The song poignantly describes the landscapes, characters, and emotions encountered along the way, evoking a sense of nostalgia and wanderlust.

When The Highwaymen released their version of “The City of New Orleans,” it resonated deeply with audiences, blending the distinct voices and musical styles of its members into a harmonious whole. The song reached notable success on the country charts, reflecting its broad appeal and enduring popularity.

Beyond its commercial achievements, “The City of New Orleans” became a symbol of American folk music tradition, celebrated for its storytelling prowess and melodic charm. It continues to be cherished by listeners who appreciate its evocative lyrics and the masterful interpretation by The Highwaymen, solidifying its status as a classic in the genre.

The Highwaymen’s rendition of “The City of New Orleans” stands as a testament to their collective artistry and individual legacies, showcasing their ability to breathe new life into beloved songs while honoring the roots of American music. Through their heartfelt performance, The Highwaymen pay homage to the spirit of adventure and the enduring allure of the open road, making the song a timeless anthem for generations of music lovers.

Video

Lyrics

Ridin’ on the City of New Orleans
Illinois Central, Monday mornin’ rail
15 cars and 15 restless riders
Three conductors, 25 sacks of mail

All along the southbound odyssey the train pulls out of Kankakee
Rolls along past houses, farms & fields
Passin’ graves that have no name, freight yards full of old black men
And the graveyards of rusted automobiles

Good mornin’ America, how are you?
Don’t you know me? I’m your native son!
I’m the train they call the City of New Orleans
I’ll be gone 500 miles when the day is done

Dealin’ cards with the old men in the club car
Penny a point, ain’t no one keepin’ score
Pass the paper bag that holds the bottle
And feel the wheels grumblin’ neath the floor
Find more lyrics at ※ Mojim.com

And the sons of Pullman porters & the sons of engineers
Ride their fathers’ magic carpet made of steel
Mothers with their babes asleep, rockin’ to the gentle beat
And the rhythm of the rails is all they feel

Night time on the City of New Orleans
Changin’ cars in Memphis, Tennessee
Halfway home, we’ll be there by mornin’
Through the Mississippi darkness rollin’ down to the sea

But all the towns & people seem to fade into a bad dream
And the steel rail still ain’t heard the news
The conductor sings his song again
‘The passengers will please refrain,
This train has got the disappearin’ railroad blues