About the song
In the annals of country music, few collaborations have left as enduring a mark as the Highwaymen. This iconic quartet, comprised of Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, Kris Kristofferson, and Johnny Cash, came together in the early 1980s, their voices harmonizing to create a sound that transcended generations. At the heart of their repertoire lies a song that has become synonymous with their legacy: “Highwayman.”
Written by Jimmy Webb, a prolific songwriter known for his evocative lyrics, “Highwayman” tells the tale of a soul’s eternal journey through various incarnations. From a highwayman to a sailor, a dam builder, and finally a starship captain, the song explores themes of destiny, loss, and the enduring nature of the human spirit.
The Highwaymen’s rendition of “Highwayman” is a testament to their individual talents and the synergy they achieved as a group. Each member brought their unique vocal style and storytelling abilities to the song, creating a rich tapestry of emotions. Willie Nelson’s soulful voice captured the weary wanderer, while Waylon Jennings’ gritty baritone embodied the rugged outlaw. Kris Kristofferson’s poetic delivery conveyed the sailor’s longing, and Johnny Cash’s authoritative tone added a touch of gravitas to the starship captain’s narrative.
The song’s impact was immediate upon its release in 1985. It quickly climbed the country music charts, reaching the coveted number one position and spending an impressive 20 weeks on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. “Highwayman” became the quartet’s signature song, a timeless anthem that resonated with audiences of all ages.
Beyond its commercial success, “Highwayman” has also solidified its place in country music history as a masterpiece of songwriting and performance. The song’s evocative lyrics, coupled with the Highwaymen’s powerful vocals, have made it a beloved classic that continues to inspire and captivate listeners today.
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Lyrics
I was a highwaymanAlong the coach roads, I did rideWith sword and pistol by my sideMany a young maid lost her baubles to my tradeMany a soldier shed his lifeblood on my bladeThe bastards hung me in the spring of twenty-fiveBut I am still aliveI was a sailorI was borne upon the tideAnd with the sea, I did abideI sailed a schooner round the Horn to MexicoI went aloft and furled the mainsail in a blowAnd when the yards broke off they said that I got killedBut I am living stillI was a dam builderAcross the river deep and wideWhere steel and water did collideA place called Boulder on the wild ColoradoI slipped and fell into the wet concrete belowThey buried me in that great tomb that knows no soundBut I am still aroundI’ll always be around and around and around and around and around and aroundI fly a starshipAcross the Universe divideAnd when I reach the other sideI’ll find a place to rest my spirit if I canPerhaps I may become a highwayman againOr I may simply be a single drop of rainBut I will remainI’ll be back again and again and again and again and again and again