About the song
“El Paso” stands as a timeless masterpiece in the realm of western ballads, immortalized by Marty Robbins’ evocative storytelling and musical prowess. Released in 1959 on the album “Gunfighter Ballads and Trail Songs,” this narrative-driven song quickly ascended to the top of both country and pop music charts, marking it as the definitive No. 1 hit as the 1960s began. Its enduring popularity is underscored by its induction into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1998 and its recognition by the Western Writers of America among the Top 100 Western songs of all time.
At its core, “El Paso” weaves a tale of love, jealousy, and tragic fate in the rugged landscapes of the Wild West. The song’s protagonist, a cowboy enamored by the charms of a Mexican dancer named Feleena, finds himself ensnared in a deadly rivalry over her affections. This fatal obsession leads him to commit murder and theft, forcing him to flee to the desolate badlands of New Mexico. Despite his escape, his love for Feleena proves stronger than his fear of death, drawing him back to El Paso with fatal consequences.
Central to the song’s allure are the haunting harmonies contributed by vocalists Bobby Sykes and Jim Glaser, along with the distinctive Tex-Mex flavor lent by Grady Martin’s Spanish guitar accompaniment. Robbins’ decision to shift from past to present tense midway through the narrative adds a poignant immediacy, intensifying the emotional impact of the story.
The song’s enduring appeal transcends generations, evidenced by numerous covers and adaptations over the years. Notably, the Grateful Dead embraced “El Paso” in their live performances, cementing its place in popular culture beyond its original country roots. Additionally, Robbins himself penned sequels to the song, expanding upon Feleena’s tragic story and further solidifying the narrative’s place in musical history.
“El Paso” remains a quintessential example of storytelling through music, blending rich lyrical imagery with compelling melodies to create an indelible piece of Americana. Its legacy continues to resonate, capturing the imagination of listeners and musicians alike, ensuring its place among the most iconic songs of its genre.
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Lyrics
Out in the West Texas town of El Paso
I fell in love with a Mexican girl
Nighttime would find me in Rosa’s cantina
Music would play and Felina would whirl
Blacker than night were the eyes of Felina
Wicked and evil while casting a spell
My love was deep for this Mexican maiden
I was in love, but in vain I could tell
One night, a wild young cowboy came in
Wild as the West Texas wind
Dashing and daring, a drink he was sharing
With wicked Felina, the girl that I loved
So in anger
I challenged his right for the love of this maiden
Down went his hand for the gun that he wore
My challenge was answered in less than a heartbeat
The handsome young stranger lay dead on the floor
Just for a moment, I stood there in silence
Shocked by the foul evil deed I had done
Many thoughts raced through my mind as I stood there
I had but one chance and that was to run
Out through the back door of Rosa’s I ran
Out where the horses were tied
I caught a good one, it looked like it could run
Up on its back and away I did ride
Just as fast as I
Could from the West Texas town of El Paso
Out to the badlands of New Mexico
Back in El Paso, my life would be worthless
Everything’s gone in life, nothing is left
It’s been so long since I’ve seen the young maiden
My love is stronger than my fear of death
I saddled up and away I did go
Riding alone in the dark
Maybe tomorrow, a bullet may find me
Tonight nothing’s worse than this pain in my heart
And at last here I am on the hill, overlooking El Paso
I can see Rosa’s cantina below
My love is strong and it pushes me onward
Down off the hill to Felina I go
Off to my right I see five mounted cowboys
Off to my left ride a dozen or more
Shouting and shooting, I can’t let them catch me
I have to make it to Rosa’s back door
Something is dreadfully wrong, for I feel
A deep burning pain in my side
Though I am trying to stay in the saddle
I’m getting weary, unable to ride
But my love for Felina is strong and I rise where I’ve fallen
Though I am weary, I can’t stop to rest
I see the white puff of smoke from the rifle
I feel the bullet go deep in my chest
From out of nowhere Felina has found me
Kissing my cheek as she kneels by my side
Cradled by two loving arms that I’ll die for
One little kiss and Felina, goodbye