About the song
**Marty Robbins**, a name synonymous with the American West, crafted a timeless ballad that continues to resonate with listeners decades after its release. “**Big Iron**” is a classic tale of bravery, loyalty, and the harsh realities of life on the frontier.
The song, released in 1960, paints a vivid picture of a rugged landscape where survival often hinges on a quick draw and a steady hand. Robbins, with his distinctive baritone voice, narrates the story of a sheriff, tasked with protecting his town from a notorious outlaw. The outlaw, armed with a deadly “big iron,” is a formidable foe, but the sheriff, undeterred, confronts him in a showdown that will determine the fate of the community.
The song’s lyrics are filled with imagery that transports listeners to the Wild West. Robbins describes the desolate plains, the dusty saloons, and the tension-filled moments leading up to the climactic confrontation. The music, with its driving rhythm and twangy guitar, complements the narrative, creating a sense of urgency and excitement.
“Big Iron” is more than just a song; it’s a testament to the enduring appeal of the Western genre. It captures the spirit of adventure, the thrill of danger, and the unwavering courage of those who lived on the frontier. Robbins’ performance is both powerful and emotive, bringing the characters and setting to life.
The song’s popularity has transcended generations, and it continues to be enjoyed by music fans of all ages. Whether you’re a Western enthusiast or simply appreciate timeless storytelling, “Big Iron” is a must-listen. It’s a classic that has earned its place in the pantheon of American music.
Video
Lyrics
To the town of Agua Fria rode a stranger one fine day
Hardly spoke to folks around him, didn’t have too much to say
No one dared to ask his business, no one dared to make a slip
For the stranger there among them had a big iron on his hip
Big iron on his hip
It was early in the morning when he rode into the town
He came riding from the south side slowly lookin’ all around
He’s an outlaw loose and running, came the whisper from each lip
And he’s here to do some business with the big iron on his hip
Big iron on his hip
In this town there lived an outlaw by the name of Texas Red
Many men had tried to take him and that many men were dead
He was vicious and a killer though a youth of 24
And the notches on his pistol numbered one and 19 more
One and 19 more
Now the stranger started talking, made it plain to folks around
Was an Arizona ranger, wouldn’t be too long in town
He came here to take an outlaw back alive or maybe dead
And he said it didn’t matter he was after Texas Red
After Texas Red
Wasn’t long before the story was relayed to Texas Red
But the outlaw didn’t worry men that tried before were dead
20 men had tried to take him, 20 men had made a slip
21 would be the ranger with the big iron on his hip
Big iron on his hip
The morning passed so quickly, it was time for them to meet
It was 20 past 11 when they walked out in the street
Folks were watching from the windows, everybody held their breath
They knew this handsome ranger was about to meet his death
About to meet his death
There was 40 feet between them when they stopped to make their play
And the swiftness of the ranger is still talked about today
Texas Red had not cleared leather ‘fore a bullet fairly ripped
And the ranger’s aim was deadly with the big iron on his hip
Big iron on his hip
It was over in a moment and the folks had gathered round
There before them lay the body of the outlaw on the ground
Oh, he might have went on living but he made one fatal slip
When he tried to match the ranger with the big iron on his hip
Big iron on his hip
Big iron, big iron
When he tried to match the ranger with the big iron on his hip
Big iron on his hip