The Highwaymen – Big River

The Highwaymen: A Supergroup’s Ode to the Mississippi

The Highwaymen, a legendary supergroup comprised of country music icons Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, and Kris Kristofferson, have left an enduring mark on the genre.

Background

Their music, a blend of country, folk, and rock, has captivated audiences for decades. One of their most iconic songs, “Big River,” is a tribute to the mighty Mississippi River, a symbol of American history and culture.

Released in 1990 on their self-titled album, “Big River” is a powerful and evocative song that celebrates the river’s grandeur and its impact on American life.

The song’s sweeping melody, combined with the harmonious vocals of the four legendary artists, creates a cinematic and immersive listening experience.

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the river’s journey, from its source to its mouth, highlighting its significance as a cultural and economic force.

The Highwaymen’s collaboration was a unique and powerful force in country music. Their combined talents and shared passion for music resulted in a series of iconic albums and unforgettable performances.

“Big River” is a prime example of the group’s ability to create timeless music that transcends generations.

Video

Lyrics

🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤

I taught the weepin’ willow how to cry, cry, cry
And I showed the clouds how to cover up a clear, blue sky
And the tears that I cried for that woman are gonna flood you, big river
And I’m gonna sit right here until I die

I met her accidentally in St. Paul, Minnesota
And it tore me up every time I heard her drawl, southern drawl
Then I heard my dream went back downstream cavortin’ in Davenport
And I followed you, big river, when she called

Oh, she took me to St. Louis later on, down the river
A freighter said, “She’s been here but she’s gone, boy, she’s gone”
And I found her trail in Memphis, but she just walked up the block
She raised a few eyebrows, and went on down alone

Well, I pulled into Natchez, next day down the river
But there wasn’t much there to make the rounders stay very long
When I left, it was rainin’ so nobody saw me cry
Big river, why she doin’ me this way?

Now won’t you batter down by Baton Rouge? River Queen, roll it on
Take that woman on down to New Orleans, New Orleans
Go on, I’ve had enough, dump my blues down in the gulf
She loves you, big river, more than me

I taught the weepin’ willow how to cry, cry, cry
And I showed the clouds how to cover up a clear, blue sky
And the tears that I cried for that woman are gonna flood you, big river
And I’m gonna sit right here until I die