About the song
The Highwaymen’s rendition of “American Remains” is a poignant and thought-provoking piece of music. Released in 1990 on their acclaimed album “The Road Goes On Forever”, the song features the combined talents of Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, and Kris Kristofferson.
Originally written by Randy Newman and first recorded by him in 1974, “American Remains” is a somber reflection on the impact of American history on its people. The song paints a vivid picture of the struggles and hardships faced by individuals throughout American history, highlighting themes of loss, resilience, and the enduring spirit of the American people.
The Highwaymen’s version of the song adds a layer of depth and emotional weight. Their harmonies and individual vocal styles blend seamlessly to convey the song’s poignant message. While “American Remains” may not have achieved significant chart success, it remains a standout track on “The Road Goes On Forever.” The album itself was well-received, showcasing The Highwaymen’s exceptional ability to reinterpret classic and contemporary songs with their distinctive sound.
The song’s thoughtful lyrics and the group’s powerful delivery have earned it a cherished place among fans of The Highwaymen and those who appreciate country music’s storytelling tradition. While “American Remains” did not win specific awards, its inclusion in The Highwaymen’s repertoire is a testament to their artistry and their commitment to addressing meaningful themes through their music.
For those who appreciate the depth of classic country music and the extraordinary talent of The Highwaymen, “American Remains” is a must-listen. It exemplifies their skill in bringing new life to poignant narratives and highlights their profound respect for the stories that shape American history.
Video
Lyrics
I am a shotgun rider for the San Jacinto line
The desert is my brother, my skin is cracked and dry
I was ridin’ on a folk coach and everything was fine
‘Til we took a shorter road to save some time
The bandits only fired once, they shot me in the chest
They may have wounded me but they’ll never get the best
Of better men ’cause I’ll ride again
I am a river gambler, I make a livin’ dealin’ cards
My clothes are smooth and honest, my heart is cold and hard
I was shufflin’ for some delta boys on a boat for New Orleans
I was the greatest shark they’d ever seen
But the captain bumped a sandbar and an ace fell from my sleeve
They threw me overboard as I swore I didn’t cheat
But I could swim and I’ll ride again
We are heroes of the homeland, American remains
We live in many faces and answer many names
We will not be forgotten, we won’t be left behind
Our memories live on in mortal minds
And poets pens, we’ll ride again
I am a midwest farmer, I make a livin’ off the land
I ride a John Deere tractor, I’m a liberated man
But the rain, it hasn’t fallen
Since the middle of July
And if it don’t come soon, my crops will die
The bankman says he likes me, but there’s nothin’ he can do
He tells me that he’s comin’, but the clouds are comin’ too
He ain’t my friend and I’ll ride again
I am an American Indian, my tribe is Cherokee
My forefathers loved this land, they left it here for me
But the white man came with boats and trains and dirty factories
Poisoned my existence with his deeds
Nature is our mother, we are sucklings at her breast
And he who tries to beat her down will lose her to the rest
They’ll never win, I’ll ride again
We are heroes of the homeland, American remains
We live in many faces and answer many names
We will not be forgotten, we won’t be left behind
Our memories live on in mortal minds
And poets pens, we’ll ride again