About the song
The Highwaymen: A Timeless Tribute in “The Last Cowboy Song”
For those who grew up with the twang of a country guitar and the allure of the open road, the name The Highwaymen is synonymous with authenticity and Americana. Composed of country music legends Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, and Kris Kristofferson, this supergroup redefined the genre with their harmonious blend of traditional country and outlaw sensibilities. Their 1990 live album, American Outlaws: Live at Nassau Coliseum, stands as a testament to their enduring legacy, and among its standout tracks is the poignant ballad, “The Last Cowboy Song”.
“The Last Cowboy Song” offers a nostalgic glimpse into a vanishing era, celebrating the rugged individualism and free spirit of the American cowboy. The song’s lyrics paint vivid images of solitary riders, vast landscapes, and the fading traditions of the Old West. The Highwaymen’s rich, weathered voices harmonize beautifully, conveying a sense of melancholy and longing. Their delivery is both heartfelt and understated, allowing the song’s themes to resonate deeply with listeners.
Musically, “The Last Cowboy Song” is a masterclass in country songwriting. The melody is both simple and evocative, with a classic country chord progression that provides a solid foundation for the lyrics. The instrumentation is sparse, featuring acoustic guitar, pedal steel, and subtle percussion, creating a spacious and atmospheric sound. The song’s arrangement is understated, allowing the vocals and lyrics to take center stage.
The live performance of “The Last Cowboy Song” on American Outlaws: Live at Nassau Coliseum captures the magic of the Highwaymen’s chemistry. The band members’ camaraderie is palpable, and their performances are filled with passion and energy. The audience’s enthusiastic response serves as a reminder of the enduring appeal of this iconic group.
In conclusion, “The Last Cowboy Song” is a timeless piece of country music that continues to resonate with listeners of all generations. The song’s themes of loss, nostalgia, and the enduring spirit of the American West are as relevant today as they were when it was first released. The Highwaymen’s masterful performance on American Outlaws: Live at Nassau Coliseum is a must-listen for fans of country music and anyone who appreciates the beauty of storytelling through song.
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Lyrics
This is the last cowboy song
The end of a hundred year Waltz
The voices sound sad as they’re singin’ along
Another piece of America’s lost
He rides the feed lots, clerks in the markets
On weekends sellin’ tobacco and beer
And his dreams of tomorrow, surrounded by fences
But he’ll dream tonight of when fences weren’t here
He blazed the trail with Lewis and Clark
And eyeball to eyeball, old Wyatt backed down
He stood shoulder to shoulder with Travis in Texas
And rode with the 7th when Custer went down
This is the last cowboy song
The end of a hundred year Waltz
The voices sound sad as they’re singin’ along
Another piece of America’s lost
Remington showed us how he looked on canvas
And Louis Lamour has told us his tale
Me and Johnny and Waylon and Kris sing about him
And wish to God, we could have ridden his trail
This is the last cowboy song
The end of a hundred year Waltz
The voices sound sad as they’re singin’ along
Another piece of America’s lost
This is the last cowboy song
The end of a hundred year Waltz
The voices sound sad as they’re singin’ along
Another piece of America’s lost
This is the last cowboy song
The end of a hundred year Waltz