About the song
## Marty Robbins: A Ballad of the Wild West
**El Paso** is a timeless classic that has captured the hearts of listeners for generations. Performed by the legendary Marty Robbins in 1959, this haunting ballad weaves a tale of love, loss, and revenge set against the backdrop of the Wild West. Robbins’ distinctive baritone voice, combined with the evocative lyrics and traditional country instrumentation, creates a powerful and unforgettable listening experience.
The song begins with a somber melody that sets the stage for the tragic story to unfold. Robbins narrates the tale of a young cowboy named J.R. Jones who falls deeply in love with a beautiful woman named Inez. Their love story is idyllic until a jealous rival, Faron, arrives and disrupts their happiness. A confrontation ensues, leading to a tragic shootout.
The lyrics of “El Paso” are filled with vivid imagery that transports the listener to the dusty plains and bustling saloons of the Old West. Robbins paints a picture of a love affair that is both passionate and doomed. The song’s refrain, “I’m a-ridin’ out of El Paso, a-headed for the hills,” is a poignant reminder of the loneliness and isolation that often accompanied the cowboy lifestyle.
Marty Robbins’ performance of “El Paso” is a masterclass in storytelling. His voice conveys a sense of longing, regret, and determination that perfectly captures the emotional depth of the song. The backing musicians provide a sympathetic accompaniment, with their fiddle, guitar, and bass creating a haunting and atmospheric soundscape.
The song’s popularity is a testament to its enduring appeal. It has been covered by countless artists, including Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and Willie Nelson, each bringing their own unique interpretation to the classic tale. “El Paso” remains a staple of country music and a beloved song that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages.
Video
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