About the song
*”The Highwayman, a timeless ballad by the country music supergroup The Highwaymen, is more than just a song; it’s a journey through love, loss, and the enduring power of memory. Released in 1985, this iconic track brought together four legendary country music stars – Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, and Kris Kristofferson – to create a masterpiece that has resonated with audiences for generations.
The song tells a poignant tale of a love that transcends time and death. Through the haunting harmonies and evocative lyrics, The Highwayman paints a vivid picture of a man who is willing to sacrifice everything for the woman he loves. The recurring imagery of a highwayman and a lady in red adds a layer of mystery and romance to the narrative.
One of the most striking aspects of The Highwayman is its ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia. The song’s melancholic tone and references to bygone eras transport listeners to a simpler time. The combined vocal talents of Cash, Jennings, Nelson, and Kristofferson create a rich and textured sound that is both comforting and haunting.
Beyond its romantic themes, The Highwayman also explores deeper philosophical questions about life, death, and the nature of love. The song’s haunting refrain, “I’ll be a highwayman coming from the sea,” suggests that the narrator’s spirit will continue to wander the earth in search of his lost love.
The Highwayman is a testament to the enduring power of country music. Its timeless message of love, loss, and redemption has made it a beloved classic that continues to inspire new generations of listeners. Whether you’re a longtime fan of country music or simply appreciate a well-crafted song, The Highwayman is a must-listen.”*
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Lyrics
I was a highwayman
Along the coach roads, I did ride
With sword and pistol by my side
Many a young maid lost her baubles to my trade
Many a soldier shed his lifeblood on my blade
The bastards hung me in the spring of twenty-five
But I am still alive
I was a sailor
I was borne upon the tide
And with the sea, I did abide
I sailed a schooner round the Horn to Mexico
I went aloft and furled the mainsail in a blow
And when the yards broke off they said that I got killed
But I am living still
I was a dam builder
Across the river deep and wide
Where steel and water did collide
A place called Boulder on the wild Colorado
I slipped and fell into the wet concrete below
They buried me in that great tomb that knows no sound
But I am still around
I’ll always be around and around and around and around and around and around
I fly a starship
Across the Universe divide
And when I reach the other side
I’ll find a place to rest my spirit if I can
Perhaps I may become a highwayman again
Or I may simply be a single drop of rain
But I will remain
I’ll be back again and again and again and again and again and again