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The Highwaymen – Highwayman

“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”

Introduction

“Highwayman” is a song that has become synonymous with the supergroup The Highwaymen, consisting of country music legends Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, and Kris Kristofferson. Released as the title track of their debut album in 1985, this song stands out not only for its unique narrative structure but also for the remarkable collaboration of these iconic artists. The song’s storytelling and vocal performances have left a lasting impression on country music and its listeners.

The track “Highwayman” itself weaves a tale of reincarnation, chronicling the lives of four different characters across history, each voiced by a member of the group. This narrative approach showcases the distinct vocal styles of each artist, blending them into a cohesive and compelling story that resonates with listeners.

About The Composition

  • Title: Highwayman
  • Composer: Jimmy Webb
  • Premiere Date: 1985
  • Album/Opus/Collection: Highwayman
  • Genre: Country

Background

“Highwayman” was written by Jimmy Webb and first recorded by Glen Campbell in 1979. However, it gained widespread recognition when The Highwaymen released their version in 1985. The song became the title track of their debut album and a number one hit on the country charts. The Highwaymen were formed in the mid-1980s when these four legendary musicians came together to create something extraordinary, and “Highwayman” was the perfect representation of their collaborative spirit.

The song’s concept of reincarnation allows each member to take on a distinct persona, ranging from a highwayman to a space traveler, each with its own story and fate. This narrative framework provided a unique platform for the group to showcase their storytelling prowess, a hallmark of country music.

Musical Style

The musical style of “Highwayman” is rooted in traditional country music but incorporates elements of folk and rock, reflecting the diverse backgrounds of its performers. The arrangement is characterized by acoustic guitars, a steady drumbeat, and subtle orchestration, providing a rich backdrop for the distinctive voices of Cash, Nelson, Jennings, and Kristofferson. The song’s structure supports its storytelling, with each verse seamlessly transitioning to the next, maintaining the listener’s engagement throughout.

Lyrics/Libretto

The lyrics of “Highwayman” are a central feature of its appeal. They explore themes of life, death, and rebirth through the narratives of four historical figures. Each character faces their demise but is reborn in a new form, conveying a sense of timelessness and resilience. This cycle of life and rebirth resonates with the listener, offering a philosophical reflection on the human experience.

Performance History

Since its release, “Highwayman” has been performed by The Highwaymen at numerous concerts and events, becoming a staple of their live performances. Its popularity ensured that it was a highlight of their tours, with audiences eagerly anticipating the moment when these four legends would bring the tale to life on stage. The song has also been covered by various artists, further cementing its status as a classic.

Cultural Impact

“Highwayman” has had a significant cultural impact, not only as a hit song but also as a representation of the collaboration between four of country music’s most influential figures. The song has appeared in various media, including films and television, often used to underscore themes of adventure and resilience. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its universal appeal and the legendary status of The Highwaymen.

Legacy

The legacy of “Highwayman” endures today as a landmark in country music history. It continues to inspire new generations of musicians with its innovative storytelling and the powerful performances of its original artists. The song’s themes of perseverance and transformation remain relevant, ensuring its place in the pantheon of great American songs.

Conclusion

“Highwayman” by The Highwaymen is more than just a song; it is a testament to the power of collaboration and storytelling in music. Its enduring legacy and cultural impact make it a must-listen for fans of country music and storytelling. I encourage you to explore this iconic track and the wider works of The Highwaymen to fully appreciate their contribution to music history.

Video

Lyrics

[Willie Nelson:]

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

[Kris Kristofferson:]

I was a sailor

I was born 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

[Waylon Jennings:]

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…

[Johnny Cash:]

I’ll 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

And I’ll be back again, and again and again and again and again…

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HANK WILLIAMS JR. TOOK WAYLON’S VERSE. GEORGE JONES TOOK JOHNNY’S. WILLIE AND KRIS SANG THEIR OWN. That was “Highwayman” at the Ryman Auditorium on November 10, 2003, at the Johnny Cash Memorial Tribute. Jimmy Webb wrote four verses into that song and it needs four voices to work, and by that night only two of the men who made it famous were still alive to stand there. Waylon Jennings had been gone twenty months. Johnny Cash had been gone fifty-nine days. Kristofferson, Nelson and Jones had already sung “Big River” near the top of the show. Rosanne Cash sang “I Still Miss Someone.” Sheryl Crow sang “Hurt.” The whole night ran close to three hours in a room that understood exactly what it was sitting through. Five days later CMT aired a two-hour edit, and “Highwayman” was not in it. A reviewer who was there wrote that it may have drawn the biggest response of the entire evening. The people inside the Ryman watched four men finish a song its original four voices could no longer sing. Everybody watching at home got the edit.