About the song
Let’s take a ride through the melodic landscape of “City of New Orleans,” a timeless tune performed by The Highwaymen. Written by Steve Goodman, this song serves as a poignant tribute to the vibrant city of New Orleans and the iconic train journey that bears its name.
Originally released in 1971 on Goodman’s album “Steve Goodman,” “City of New Orleans” found new life when it was covered by the supergroup The Highwaymen in 1985 as part of their self-titled album. Comprised of country music legends Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, and Kris Kristofferson, The Highwaymen brought their collective talents to breathe new energy into Goodman’s heartfelt composition.
With its soulful harmonies and evocative lyrics, “City of New Orleans” swiftly captured the hearts of listeners, propelling it to the upper echelons of the music charts. It peaked at number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, solidifying its status as a beloved classic among country music enthusiasts.
The song paints a vivid picture of the train journey from Chicago to New Orleans, weaving tales of everyday people and their experiences along the way. From the rhythm of the wheels to the sights and sounds of the passing landscape, “City of New Orleans” captures the essence of travel and adventure, inviting listeners to join in on the journey.
Decades since its release, “City of New Orleans” remains a beloved favorite, cherished for its timeless appeal and heartfelt storytelling. With its blend of nostalgia, Americana, and musical prowess, this song stands as a testament to The Highwaymen’s enduring legacy and their ability to captivate audiences with their unrivaled talent.
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Lyrics
Ridin’ on the City of New Orleans
Illinois Central, Monday mornin’ rail
15 cars and 15 restless riders
Three conductors, 25 sacks of mail
All along the southbound odyssey the train pulls out of Kankakee
Rolls along past houses, farms & fields
Passin’ graves that have no name, freight yards full of old black men
And the graveyards of rusted automobiles
Good mornin’ America, how are you?
Don’t you know me? I’m your native son!
I’m the train they call the City of New Orleans
I’ll be gone 500 miles when the day is done
Dealin’ cards with the old men in the club car
Penny a point, ain’t no one keepin’ score
Pass the paper bag that holds the bottle
And feel the wheels grumblin’ neath the floor
And the sons of Pullman porters & the sons of engineers
Ride their fathers’ magic carpet made of steel
Mothers with their babes asleep, rockin’ to the gentle beat
And the rhythm of the rails is all they feel
Good mornin’ America, how are you?
Don’t you know me? I’m your native son!
I’m the train they call the City of New Orleans
I’ll be gone 500 miles when the day is done
Night time on the City of New Orleans
Changin’ cars in Memphis, Tennessee
Halfway home, we’ll be there by mornin’
Through the Mississippi darkness rollin’ down to the sea
But all the towns & people seem to fade into a bad dream
And the steel rail still ain’t heard the news
The conductor sings his song again
“The passengers will please refrain,
This train has got the disappearin’ railroad blues
Good mornin’ America, how are you?
Don’t you know me? I’m your native son!
I’m the train they call the City of New Orleans
I’ll be gone 500 miles when the day is done