About the song
**The Highwaymen’s** rendition of **”City of New Orleans”** is more than just a song; it’s a nostalgic journey through the heart of America. Released in the late 1980s, this track, originally written by Steve Goodman, has become a country music classic that continues to resonate with listeners of all ages.
The song paints a vivid picture of a train journey from Chicago to New Orleans, capturing the essence of the American South and the spirit of the open road. **Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings,** and **Kris Kristofferson**—four of country music’s most iconic figures—unite their distinctive voices to create a harmonious blend that is both powerful and comforting.
One of the most striking aspects of this song is its ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia. The lyrics, filled with imagery of passing landscapes and changing seasons, transport listeners to a simpler time. The train becomes a metaphor for life itself, carrying us on a journey filled with both joy and sorrow.
**”Good mornin’ America, how are you? Don’t you know me? I’m your native son!”** Nelson’s opening line establishes a personal connection between the singer and the listener, inviting us to join him on this musical adventure. The song’s chorus is both catchy and memorable, and it perfectly captures the feeling of freedom and wanderlust that is so often associated with the open road.
Musically, **”City of New Orleans”** is a masterful blend of country, folk, and blues. The acoustic guitar, pedal steel guitar, and harmonica create a rich and textured sound that perfectly complements the song’s themes. The arrangement is simple yet effective, allowing the lyrics and vocals to take center stage.
**The Highwaymen’s** version of **”City of New Orleans”** is a timeless classic that has stood the test of time. It’s a song that celebrates the beauty of America and the enduring power of music. Whether you’re a longtime fan of country music or simply appreciate a well-crafted song, **”City of New Orleans”** is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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 and fields
Passin’ graves that have no name, freight yards full of old black men
And the graveyards of rusted automobiles
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 and 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
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
Nighttime on the city of New Orleans
Changin’ cars in Memphis, Tennessee
Halfway home, we’ll be there by mornin’
Thru the Mississippi darkness rollin’ down to the sea
But the towns & people seem to fade into a bad dream
And the steel rail still ain’t heard the news
Conductor sings your songs again
The passengers will please refrain
This train has got the disappearing railroad blues
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
I’ll be gone 500 miles when the day is done
I’ll be gone 500 miles when the day is done
