The Highwaymen – City of New Orleans

About the song

The song “City of New Orleans,” performed by The Highwaymen in their live recording from Nassau Coliseum in 1990, holds a special place in American music history. Written by Steve Goodman and first recorded by Arlo Guthrie in 1972, this song captures a unique essence of American life, particularly reflecting the heart and soul of the train journey across the Midwest.

The Highwaymen, a supergroup consisting of Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, and Kris Kristofferson, are known for their deep, resonant voices and storytelling abilities. Their version of “City of New Orleans” brings a timeless quality to the song, blending their distinct styles into a powerful performance. The live recording at Nassau Coliseum showcases their talent and the chemistry between these legendary artists, making the song even more memorable.

“City of New Orleans” is a tribute to the daily train route running from Chicago to New Orleans. It describes the life of passengers and the landscape they pass through, highlighting the routine yet captivating aspects of train travel in America. The song paints a vivid picture of the train’s journey and the people aboard, evoking a sense of nostalgia and reflection.

The Highwaymen’s rendition is both heartfelt and vibrant. Their voices, full of character and experience, convey the song’s emotional depth. The live performance adds an extra layer of connection, allowing the audience to experience the song as if they were part of the journey.

For many, this live version of “City of New Orleans” serves as a powerful reminder of simpler times and the enduring charm of American music. It’s a beautiful example of how classic songs can be brought to life through the voices of iconic artists.

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

[Chorus]
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

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