About The Song
Riding the Rails with The Highwaymen: “City of New Orleans” (Live at Nassau Coliseum, 1990)
When country music legends Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, and Kris Kristofferson joined forces as The Highwaymen, they created a force unlike anything the genre had ever seen. Their 1990 live album, American Outlaws: Live at Nassau Coliseum, captures the raw energy and camaraderie of these four icons, and their rendition of “City of New Orleans” is a standout moment.
Originally written and performed by folk artist Steve Goodman in 1971, “City of New Orleans” is a poignant ballad that paints a vivid picture of a train journey from Chicago to New Orleans. The song’s lyrics are rich with imagery, evoking the sights, sounds, and emotions of life on the rails. The Highwaymen’s interpretation, however, infuses this classic with their own unique blend of country grit and soulful harmonies.
The performance opens with a gentle acoustic guitar intro, setting a nostalgic tone that transports listeners back to a bygone era of train travel. As the song progresses, the instrumentation builds, adding layers of fiddle, steel guitar, and drums, creating a dynamic backdrop for the powerful vocals. Each Highwayman takes a turn on lead vocals, their distinct voices blending seamlessly to create a tapestry of sound that is both powerful and moving.
What makes this version of “City of New Orleans” so special is the palpable chemistry between the four artists. Their shared love for the song and their mutual respect for one another shines through in every note. The performance is imbued with a sense of camaraderie and joy, as if the Highwaymen are inviting the audience to join them on this musical journey.
“City of New Orleans” is more than just a song; it’s a celebration of American folklore and the enduring spirit of the open road. The Highwaymen’s rendition captures the essence of this classic ballad, while adding their own unique flavor to create a truly unforgettable performance. Listening to this track, one can almost feel the rumble of the train beneath their feet and witness the passing landscapes through the window. It’s a testament to the power of music to transport us to another time and place, and a reminder of the enduring legacy of these four country music giants.
For fans of classic country music and anyone who appreciates the power of storytelling through song, The Highwaymen’s “City of New Orleans” is a must-listen. It’s a timeless performance that captures the magic of these four legendary artists and the enduring spirit of the American road.