Desperados Waiting For A Train - The Highwaymen
"Desperados Waiting For A Train" is a classic country song performed by the supergroup The Highwaymen, consisting of Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, and Kris Kristofferson. The track was written by legendary singer-songwriter Guy Clark and was first released in 1975. The song tells the story of a young boy who forms a close bond with an older man, referred to as "the old man" or "the old man down the road." The boy looks up to the older man, who teaches him life lessons and imparts wisdom. As the boy grows into a man, he becomes a "desperado" himself, following in the footsteps of his mentor. The composition of the song features a melodic blend of acoustic guitars, harmonicas, and the distinct vocals of each member of The Highwaymen. The storytelling lyrics and haunting melody create a sense of nostalgia and longing, capturing the bittersweet relationship between the boy and the old man. One notable fact about the song is that it has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Jerry Jeff Walker, Nanci Griffith, and The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. "Desperados Waiting For A Train" has become a classic in the country music genre, showcasing the songwriting prowess of Guy Clark and the vocal talents of The Highwaymen.
The Highwaymen
The Highwaymen were a country music supergroup formed in 1985, consisting of four legendary artists: Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, and Kris Kristofferson. Each member of the group had already achieved significant success as solo artists before coming together to form The Highwaymen. Johnny Cash, known as the "Man in Black," was a pioneering figure in country music, blending elements of rock and roll into his sound. Waylon Jennings was a key figure in the outlaw country movement, known for his gritty vocals and rebellious attitude. Willie Nelson was a prolific songwriter and performer, known for hits like "On the Road Again" and "Always on My Mind." Kris Kristofferson was a highly respected songwriter, known for his introspective and poetic lyrics. The Highwaymen released three albums together, with their self-titled debut album reaching platinum status. Their music combined elements of country, rock, and folk, creating a unique sound that resonated with audiences around the world. Hits like "Highwayman" and "Silver Stallion" showcased the group's distinctive harmonies and storytelling abilities. The Highwaymen were not only successful in terms of record sales and chart success but also had a significant impact on the country music genre as a whole. They paved the way for a new generation of artists who would blend traditional country with elements of rock and folk, helping to expand the boundaries of the genre. Individually, each member of The Highwaymen left an indelible mark on the music industry, but together, they created something truly special. Their music continues to inspire and influence artists to this day, proving that the power of collaboration and camaraderie can lead to timeless and iconic music. The Highwaymen will always be remembered as one of the greatest supergroups in country music history.