About the song
Marty Robbins’ “El Paso” is a timeless ballad that weaves a tale of love, betrayal, and revenge set against the backdrop of the American Wild West. Released in 1959, the song quickly became a massive hit, capturing the hearts of listeners with its evocative storytelling and Robbins’ soulful vocals.
“El Paso” begins with a haunting melody that immediately draws the listener into the narrative. Robbins, in his distinctive baritone, narrates the story of a young man who falls deeply in love with a woman named Inez. Their passion is intense, but their happiness is short-lived as jealousy and misunderstanding lead to a tragic confrontation.
The song’s lyrics are filled with vivid imagery and poetic language that paint a picture of the Wild West. Robbins describes the dusty streets of El Paso, the saloon where he meets Inez, and the fateful showdown that unfolds. The music is both melodic and dramatic, reflecting the intensity of the story.
One of the most striking aspects of “El Paso” is its narrative structure. The song unfolds in a series of verses, each revealing a new chapter in the story. Robbins’ storytelling is masterful, keeping the listener engaged and eager to hear what happens next.
“El Paso” has been covered by countless artists over the years, but Robbins’ original recording remains the definitive version. His performance is both powerful and emotive, capturing the raw emotion of the story. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal, and it continues to be a beloved classic of American music.
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Lyrics
Out in the West Texas town of El Paso
I fell in love with a Mexican girl
Nighttime would find me in Rosa’s cantina
Music would play and Felina would whirl
Blacker than night were the eyes of Felina
Wicked and evil while casting a spell
My love was deep for this Mexican maiden
I was in love, but in vain I could tell
One night, a wild young cowboy came in
Wild as the West Texas wind
Dashing and daring, a drink he was sharing
With wicked Felina, the girl that I loved
So in anger
I challenged his right for the love of this maiden
Down went his hand for the gun that he wore
My challenge was answered in less than a heartbeat
The handsome young stranger lay dead on the floor
Just for a moment, I stood there in silence
Shocked by the foul evil deed I had done
Many thoughts raced through my mind as I stood there
I had but one chance and that was to run
Out through the back door of Rosa’s I ran
Out where the horses were tied
I caught a good one, it looked like it could run
Up on its back and away I did ride
Just as fast as I
Could from the West Texas town of El Paso
Out to the badlands of New Mexico
Back in El Paso, my life would be worthless
Everything’s gone in life, nothing is left
It’s been so long since I’ve seen the young maiden
My love is stronger than my fear of death
I saddled up and away I did go
Riding alone in the dark
Maybe tomorrow, a bullet may find me
Tonight nothing’s worse than this pain in my heart
And at last here I am on the hill, overlooking El Paso
I can see Rosa’s cantina below
My love is strong and it pushes me onward
Down off the hill to Felina I go
Off to my right I see five mounted cowboys
Off to my left ride a dozen or more
Shouting and shooting, I can’t let them catch me
I have to make it to Rosa’s back door
Something is dreadfully wrong, for I feel
A deep burning pain in my side
Though I am trying to stay in the saddle
I’m getting weary, unable to ride
But my love for Felina is strong and I rise where I’ve fallen
Though I am weary, I can’t stop to rest
I see the white puff of smoke from the rifle
I feel the bullet go deep in my chest
From out of nowhere Felina has found me
Kissing my cheek as she kneels by my side
Cradled by two loving arms that I’ll die for
One little kiss and Felina, goodbye