About the song
The Highwaymen and Their Signature Song “Highwayman”
The Highwaymen were a country supergroup consisting of four legendary singers: Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, and Kris Kristofferson. They came together in 1985 to record an album of outlaw country songs, and their collaboration became one of the most successful country music projects of all time.
One of the standout tracks on their debut album was “Highwayman,” a haunting ballad written by Jimmy Webb. The song tells the story of a 19th century highwayman who is hanged for his crimes. As he awaits his execution, he reflects on his life and the choices he has made.
The song’s lyrics are rich in imagery and symbolism, and the melody is both beautiful and haunting. The Highwaymen’s vocals are perfectly suited to the material, and they deliver the song with a passion and conviction that is both moving and unforgettable.
“Highwayman” is a classic country song that has stood the test of time. It is a powerful story of love, loss, and redemption, and it is a testament to the enduring legacy of The Highwaymen.
Some interesting facts about the song:
- The song was originally written for the 1971 film “The Last of the Cowboys,” but it was not used in the film.
- Jimmy Webb has said that he was inspired to write the song after reading about the life of English highwayman John “Jack” Rann.
- The song has been covered by many artists, including Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, Kris Kristofferson, Alan Jackson, and Bob Dylan.
- The song was used in the 2007 film “The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford.”
If you are a fan of country music, or if you simply enjoy a good story, then I highly recommend listening to “Highwayman” by The Highwaymen. It is a classic song that is sure to leave a lasting impression.