About the song
Let’s dive into the timeless classic, “Highwayman” by The Highwaymen.
The Highwayman by The Highwayman is more than just a song; it’s a journey through time and a testament to the enduring power of storytelling. Released in 1985, this country ballad brought together four legendary artists – Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, and Kris Kristofferson – whose voices, combined, created a rich tapestry of American music.
The song itself is a poignant narrative, weaving together the tales of four individuals from different eras, all connected by the theme of love and loss. It begins with the story of a highwayman, a romantic outlaw, executed for his crimes. As the song progresses, we meet a soldier who dies in a foreign land, a poet who sacrifices his life for his art, and a gambler who loses everything. Each verse is a standalone story, yet they all converge on the universal human experience of longing, sacrifice, and the bittersweet nature of love.
What sets The Highwayman apart is its ability to evoke a deep emotional response. The haunting melody, coupled with the heartfelt vocals of the four singers, creates a sense of nostalgia and melancholy. The lyrics, filled with vivid imagery and poetic language, paint a picture of a bygone era while remaining relevant to modern listeners.
The song’s success can also be attributed to the chemistry between the four artists. Their voices blend seamlessly, creating a harmonious sound that is both powerful and intimate. The Highwaymen, as a group, represented the golden age of country music, and their collaboration on The Highwayman is considered one of the genre’s greatest achievements.
Beyond its musical merits, The Highwayman has become an enduring cultural touchstone. It has been covered by countless artists, sampled in hip-hop tracks, and referenced in films and television shows. The song’s themes of love, loss, and the passage of time resonate with people of all ages and backgrounds.
In conclusion, The Highwayman is a masterpiece of country music that continues to inspire and move listeners. Its timeless message and beautiful melody have cemented its place in the pantheon of American song. Whether you’re a longtime fan of country music or simply appreciate a well-crafted song, The Highwayman is a must-listen.
Video
Lyrics
I was a highwayman
Along the coach roads, I did ride
With sword and pistol by my side
Many a young maid lost her baubles to my trade
Many a soldier shed his lifeblood on my blade
The bastards hung me in the spring of twenty-five
But I am still alive
I was a sailor
I was borne upon the tide
And with the sea, I did abide
I sailed a schooner round the Horn to Mexico
I went aloft and furled the mainsail in a blow
And when the yards broke off they said that I got killed
But I am living still
I was a dam builder
Across the river deep and wide
Where steel and water did collide
A place called Boulder on the wild Colorado
I slipped and fell into the wet concrete below
They buried me in that great tomb that knows no sound
But I am still around
I’ll always be around and around and around and around and around and around
I fly a starship
Across the Universe divide
And when I reach the other side
I’ll find a place to rest my spirit if I can
Perhaps I may become a highwayman again
Or I may simply be a single drop of rain
But I will remain
I’ll be back again and again and again and again and again and again