The Highwaymen, a legendary supergroup formed in 1985, transcended the mere sum of its parts. This powerhouse quartet brought together four titans of country music: Johnny Cash, the enigmatic “Man in Black” with his haunting baritone; Waylon Jennings, the “Outlaw” known for his rebellious spirit and raw vocals; Willie Nelson, the ever-charismatic singer-songwriter with a knack for storytelling; and Kris Kristofferson, the thoughtful lyricist and actor who brought a poetic edge to the genre. Their music wasn’t just about individual brilliance; it was about the magic that unfolded when these icons shared a stage. “City of New Orleans”, a live rendition from their 1990 album American Outlaws: Live at Nassau Coliseum, exemplifies this magic. Originally penned by Steve Goodman, the song became a classic tale of a train journey, capturing the essence of travel and the fleeting encounters that define a journey. The Highwaymen’s live performance breathes new life into this beloved song, showcasing their individual strengths and their undeniable musical chemistry.
“City of New Orleans” isn’t credited to any member of The Highwaymen**. It’s a testament to their respect for songwriting that they chose to deliver a faithful rendition of Steve Goodman’s masterpiece. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a train ride from Memphis to New Orleans, filled with colorful characters and evocative imagery. The song is steeped in a sense of nostalgia and longing, capturing the fleeting nature of human connection and the allure of the open road.
Producer Jerry Wexler, known for his work with legends like Ray Charles and Aretha Franklin, took the reins for American Outlaws: Live at Nassau Coliseum. Understanding the song’s narrative core and the electrifying energy of a live performance, Wexler opted for a stripped-down production style. A foundation of acoustic guitar lays the groundwork for the song’s melancholic mood, with subtle accents of piano and bass adding warmth and texture. The spotlight remains firmly on the vocals.
“City of New Orleans” on American Outlaws: Live at Nassau Coliseum isn’t just a cover; it’s a reimagining. Each member of The Highwaymen delivers a distinct and captivating performance. Cash’s deep baritone lends gravitas to the narrative, while Jennings injects a touch of weary worldliness. Nelson’s smooth vocals add a layer of warmth, and Kristofferson’s introspective delivery adds a touch of wistfulness. Their voices intertwine seamlessly in the chorus, creating a powerful sonic tapestry that elevates the song to new heights.
“City of New Orleans” (American Outlaws: Live at Nassau Coliseum) wasn’t a chart-topping hit for The Highwaymen. However, the song stands as a testament to their enduring legacy. It showcases their ability to breathe new life into a classic song, their respect for songwriting giants like Steve Goodman, and most importantly, the undeniable magic that unfolded when these country music icons shared a stage.