About the song
Alright, let’s delve into a true classic. When we speak of country music royalty, a certain supergroup often comes to mind, a quartet whose individual stars shone brightly on their own, but together, they forged something truly iconic. I’m talking, of course, about **The Highwaymen**, and the song we’re about to explore is their self-titled masterpiece, “**Highwayman**.”
Released in 1985, “**Highwayman**” wasn’t just a song; it was an event. Imagine four titans of the genre – Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Kris Kristofferson, and Willie Nelson – joining forces. Each a legend in their own right, their collaboration under the moniker **The Highwaymen** felt less like a simple musical project and more like a summit of American storytelling through song. This particular track, “**Highwayman**,” became their signature anthem, a narrative tapestry woven with threads of history, reincarnation, and the enduring spirit of rebellion.
The genius of “**Highwayman**” lies not only in the star power assembled but also in the captivating lyrics penned by Jimmy Webb. The song unfolds as a series of vignettes, each verse narrated by one of the four singers, embodying a different persona across time. We begin with a highwayman in the 19th century, a daring figure living life on the edge, a symbol of freedom and defiance against societal constraints. Cash’s deep, resonant voice lends an immediate gravitas to this opening, setting a tone of historical weight and outlaw mystique.
As the song progresses, the narrative leaps forward in time. Jennings takes the reins, portraying a riverboat captain on the Mississippi, a man of the waterways, evoking a sense of adventure and the vastness of the American landscape. His distinctive, slightly gravelly voice adds a layer of ruggedness to the tale. Then, Kristofferson steps in as a dam builder in the 20th century, a figure of progress and human ingenuity, yet still connected to the themes of hard work and leaving a lasting mark. His weathered voice carries a sense of quiet determination. Finally, Nelson’s unmistakable, gentle tenor brings us to the modern era, as a starship pilot, hinting at a future where the spirit of exploration and perhaps even a touch of that original rebellious streak continues in the vast expanse of space.
What makes “**Highwayman**” so compelling is this cyclical nature of existence and the underlying thread of a restless spirit that transcends time. The lyrics suggest a continuity of the soul, a recurring archetype of the individual who lives by their own rules, pushing boundaries and leaving their imprint on different eras. The seamless transition between these distinct characters, each brought to life by a unique voice, creates a powerful and almost cinematic listening experience.
Beyond the narrative, the musical arrangement of “**Highwayman**” is equally noteworthy. The understated yet powerful instrumentation, the harmonies of these four iconic voices blending together, create a sound that is both familiar and grand. It’s a testament to the strength of the songwriting and the collaborative spirit of these artists that the song feels cohesive despite the distinct personalities involved.
“**Highwayman**” by **The Highwaymen** is more than just a country song; it’s a storytelling masterpiece, a testament to the enduring themes of freedom, resilience, and the cyclical nature of life. It’s a reminder of the power of collaboration and the magic that can happen when exceptional talents unite. For those who appreciate narratives woven with historical depth and sung with the voices of legends, “**Highwayman**” remains a timeless and essential listening experience. It’s a song that resonates not just with country music aficionados but with anyone who appreciates a well-told story and the enduring spirit of the human journey.
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 life blood on my blade
The bastards hung me in the spring of ’25
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 to furl 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 gray 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’ll fly a star ship 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 and again
