It Is What It Is - The Highwaymen
"It Is What It Is" is a track by the supergroup The Highwaymen, consisting of country music legends Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, and Kris Kristofferson. The song was released in 1995 on their album "The Road Goes On Forever." The theme of the song revolves around accepting things as they are and not dwelling on the past. The lyrics reflect a sense of resignation and understanding that sometimes in life, you have to accept situations for what they are and move on. The song has a reflective and melancholic tone, with each member of the group taking turns singing verses. Musically, "It Is What It Is" features a simple yet powerful arrangement, with acoustic guitars and the distinctive voices of each member blending together seamlessly. The harmonies are tight and the instrumentation is understated, allowing the poignant lyrics to take center stage. One notable fact about the song is that it was one of the last recordings made by The Highwaymen before Johnny Cash's passing in 2003. The track serves as a poignant reminder of the incredible talent and camaraderie of these four iconic musicians. Overall, "It Is What It Is" is a beautiful and introspective song that showcases the incredible chemistry and talent of The Highwaymen. It's a fitting addition to their discography and a testament to their enduring legacy in the world of country music.
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.