Introduction:
The Highwaymen, a country music supergroup formed in the late 1980s, brought together some of the genre’s most iconic voices: Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, and Kris Kristofferson. Their collaborative efforts yielded a unique sound, a blend of their individual styles that resonated with fans and critics alike. Their 1990 live album, American Outlaws: Live at Nassau Coliseum, captured the energy and camaraderie of their onstage performances, showcasing their exceptional talent and the enduring power of country music.
One of the standout tracks on the album is their rendition of “City of New Orleans”, a song originally written and recorded by Steve Goodman in 1971. The narrative ballad tells the story of a nameless narrator traveling by train from Chicago to New Orleans, encountering a colorful cast of characters along the way. Goodman’s poignant lyrics paint a vivid picture of the journey, weaving in themes of loneliness, resilience, and the allure of the open road.
While Goodman’s original version is a classic in its own right, The Highwaymen’s live performance injects a fresh energy into the song. Without altering the core melody or lyrics, the interplay between the four vocalists adds a new dimension. Their distinct timbres and phrasing add depth and texture to the story, each voice embodying a different aspect of the narrator’s experience.
It’s unclear who takes the lead vocals on the Nassau Coliseum recording. Some sources credit Willie Nelson, while others suggest it could be a shared lead between all four members. This ambiguity only adds to the song’s charm, highlighting the collaborative spirit of The Highwaymen and their ability to seamlessly blend their voices.
The live performance also benefits from the inclusion of the band’s tight instrumentation. The driving rhythm section propels the song forward, while the subtle touches of pedal steel guitar and acoustic piano add a layer of melancholic beauty. This interplay between the vocals and instrumentation creates a captivating soundscape that draws the listener into the heart of the narrative.
“City of New Orleans” (American Outlaws: Live at Nassau Coliseum, 1990) isn’t just a faithful cover; it’s a testament to the enduring power of songwriting and the magic that can be created when legendary artists come together. The Highwaymen’s rendition breathed new life into the classic track, solidifying its place as a beloved staple of American music.
Video:
Lyrics:
“City Of New Orleans”
(originally by Steve Goodman)Ridin’ on the City of New Orleans
Illinois Central, Monday mornin’ rail
15 cars and 15 restless riders
Three conductors, 25 sacks of mailAll along the southbound odyssey the train pulls out of Kankakee
Rolls along past houses, farms and fields
Passin’ graves that have no name, freight yards full of old black men
And the graveyards of rusted automobilesGood 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 doneDealin’ 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 floorAnd the sons of Pullman porters and 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 feelGood 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 doneNight time on the City of New Orleans
Changin’ cars in Memphis, Tennessee
Halfway home, we’ll be there by mornin’
Thru the Mississippi darkness rollin’ down to the seaBut 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