About the song
Let’s delve into the rich tapestry of musical history with the timeless ballad, “Ballad of the Alamo” by the legendary Marty Robbins. Released in 1960, this song is a poignant tribute to the brave souls who fought valiantly during the Battle of the Alamo, a pivotal moment in American history.
Written and performed by Marty Robbins himself, “Ballad of the Alamo” showcases his unparalleled talent as both a singer and a songwriter. Robbins, known for his storytelling prowess, masterfully weaves together the tale of courage and sacrifice that unfolded within the walls of the iconic Alamo mission in 1836.
The song found its home in Robbins’ album “More Gunfighter Ballads and Trail Songs,” released in 1960. This album served as a follow-up to his immensely successful “Gunfighter Ballads and Trail Songs,” further solidifying Robbins’ reputation as a preeminent figure in the country music scene.
Upon its release, “Ballad of the Alamo” resonated deeply with audiences, earning Robbins critical acclaim and commercial success. It climbed the charts, reaching respectable positions on various music charts of the time, a testament to its widespread appeal and enduring relevance.
Robbins’ emotive vocals, paired with the stirring melody and evocative lyrics, transport listeners back in time to the hallowed grounds of the Alamo, where heroes made their last stand for freedom and independence.
“Ballad of the Alamo” stands as a testament to Marty Robbins’ ability to capture the essence of history through song, ensuring that the sacrifices made at the Alamo are never forgotten. So, let Marty Robbins guide you through this stirring journey of remembrance and honor with “Ballad of the Alamo.”
Video
Lyrics
In the southern part of Texas
In the town of San Antone
There’s a fortress all in ruins that the weeds have overgrown
You may look in vain for crosses and you’ll never see a-one
But sometimes between the setting and the rising of the sun
You can hear a ghostly bugle
As the men go marching by
You can hear them as they answer
To that roll call in the sky.
Colonel Travis, Davy Crockett, and a hundred eighty more
Captain Dickinson, Jim Bowie
Present and accounted for.
Back in 1836, Houston said to Travis
“Get some volunteers and go
Fortify the Alamo.”
Well the men came from Texas
And from old Tennessee
And they joined up with Travis
Just to fight for the right to be free.
Indian scouts with squirrel guns
Men with muzzle-loaders
Stood together, heel and toe
To defend the Alamo.
“You may ne’er see your loved ones, ”
Travis told them that day
“Those who want to can leave now
Those who fight to the death let ’em stay.”
In the sand he drew a line
With his army sabre
Out of a hundred eighty five
Not a soldier crossed the line
With his banners a-dancin’
In the dawn’s golden light
Santa Anna came prancing
On a horse that was black as the night.
Sent an officer to tell
Travis to surrender
Travis answered with a shell
And a rousing rebel yell
Santa Anna turned scarlet
“Play deguello!” he roared
“I will show them no quarter
Every one will be put to the sword!”
One hundred and eighty five
Holding back five thousand
Five days, six days, eight days, ten
Travis held and held again
Then he sent for replacements
For his wounded and lame
But the troops that were coming
Never came, never came, never came…
Twice he charged and blew recall
On the fatal third time
Santa Anna breached the wall
And he killed ’em, one and all
Now the bugles are silent
And there’s rust on each sword
And the small band of soldiers…
Lie asleep in the arms of the Lord…
In the southern part of Texas
Near the town of San Antone
Like a statue on his pinto rides a cowboy all alone
And he sees the cattle grazing where a century before
Santa Anna’s guns were blazing and the cannons used to roar
And his eyes turn sorta misty
And his heart begins to glow
And he takes his hat off slowly…
To the men of Alamo.
To the thirteen days of glory
At the siege of Alamo…