About the song
“Highwayman” by **The Highwaymen** isn’t just a song; it’s an epic, a sweeping narrative that transcends time and genre. Released in 1985, this iconic track brought together four titans of country music: Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Kris Kristofferson, and Waylon Jennings. But to simply label them “country” would be a disservice, as “Highwayman” ventures far beyond the genre’s traditional boundaries.
This song is a testament to the enduring spirit of the human soul, a concept that resonates deeply with those who have lived through the ebb and flow of life. It tells the story of a soul that reincarnates through different eras, each verse sung by a different member of **The Highwaymen**, each voice adding a layer to the rich tapestry of the narrative. We hear tales of a highwayman, a sailor, a dam builder, and a starship pilot, all connected by an unbreakable thread of resilience.
The genius of “Highwayman” lies not only in its captivating storytelling but also in the masterful blend of musical styles. The song seamlessly weaves together elements of folk, country, and even a touch of rock, creating a sound that is both timeless and uniquely its own. This fusion of genres mirrors the song’s themes of transformation and continuity, reminding us that while times may change, the essence of the human experience remains constant.
For those of us who have witnessed the evolution of music, “Highwayman” stands as a reminder of the power of collaboration and the enduring appeal of a well-told story. It’s a song that invites us to reflect on our own journeys, to appreciate the threads that connect us to the past, and to embrace the unknown possibilities of the future.
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 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.
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
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
And I’ll be back again, and again and again and again and again
