“Highwayman” is a country song written by Jimmy Webb and originally recorded by American country music artist Glen Campbell in 1977. The song was released as the second single from his album of the same name. It reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and number 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
The song is a beautiful and moving ballad about a highwayman who is on the run from the law. The lyrics tell the story of how he meets a woman and falls in love with her. He sings about how she helps him to see the beauty in the world and how she gives him hope for the future. The song is a reminder that love can be found in the most unexpected places.
“Highwayman” has been covered by many artists, including Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, and Kris Kristofferson. The Highwaymen’s version of the song was recorded live at Nassau Coliseum in 1990 and released on their album American Outlaws: Live at Nassau Coliseum, 1990. It is considered one of the definitive versions of the song.
Background and Recording
“Highwayman” was written by Jimmy Webb in 1976. Webb was inspired to write the song after reading a poem about a highwayman. He wanted to write a song that would capture the feeling of freedom and adventure.
The Highwaymen recorded their version of “Highwayman” in 1990. The song was produced by Don Was and recorded live at Nassau Coliseum in Uniondale, New York. It was released as the second single from their album American Outlaws: Live at Nassau Coliseum, 1990.
Personnel
- Johnny Cash – vocals
- Willie Nelson – vocals
- Waylon Jennings – vocals
- Kris Kristofferson – vocals
- Don Was – producer
Legacy
“Highwayman” is a classic country ballad that has stood the test of time. It is a song about love, hope, and the power of the human spirit. The song has been covered by many artists and has been featured in several films and television shows.
In 2004, “Highwayman” was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame. The song was recognized for its “cultural, historical, or aesthetic significance.”
“Highwayman” is a beautiful and moving song that continues to touch the hearts of listeners. It is a reminder that love can be found in the most unexpected places and that hope can always be found, even in the darkest of times.
Other notable covers
- Johnny Cash (1980)
- Willie Nelson (1985)
- Waylon Jennings (1986)
- Kris Kristofferson (1987)
- Alan Jackson (1992)
- George Strait (1993)
- Brad Paisley (2004)
- Martina McBride (2005)
- Tim McGraw (2006)
- Kenny Chesney (2007)
- Luke Bryan (2008)
- Blake Shelton (2009)
- Florida Georgia Line (2010)
In popular culture
“Highwayman” has been featured in several films and television shows, including:
- Thelma and Louise (1991)
- The Shawshank Redemption (1994)
- O Brother, Where Art Thou? (2000)
- The Notebook (2004)
- Grey’s Anatomy (2005)
- The Office (2006)
- How I Met Your Mother (2007)
- Glee (2009)
- Nashville (2012)
- The Voice (2013)
- American Idol (2014)
Critical reception
“Highwayman” has been praised by critics for its beautiful melody, heartfelt lyrics, and the Highwaymen’s sincere vocals. The song has been called a “classic country ballad,” a “timeless love song,” and a “moving testament to the power of love.”