Introduction
Growing up, my family would often gather around the living room on Sunday afternoons, listening to the timeless sounds of country music legends. Among the many songs that filled our home, one track, in particular, stood out for its hauntingly beautiful narrative and powerful message—”American Remains” by The Highwaymen. This song not only captivated my young mind but also instilled a deep respect for the stories of resilience and perseverance it conveyed. Today, “American Remains” remains one of those pieces that, every time I hear it, brings back memories of those cherished moments and reminds me of the enduring spirit it represents.
About The Composition
- Title: American Remains
- Composer: The Highwaymen (Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, and Kris Kristofferson)
- Premiere Date: 1990
- Album/Opus/Collection: Highwayman 2
- Genre: Country, Outlaw Country
Background
“American Remains” is one of the standout tracks from the album Highwayman 2, released in 1990 by the supergroup The Highwaymen. The group, consisting of four of country music’s most legendary figures—Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, and Kris Kristofferson—came together to create music that not only entertained but also told stories of American life, hardship, and the resilience of the human spirit. The song “American Remains” is a vivid narrative that explores the lives of various American archetypes, each embodying a facet of the nation’s character.
The track was penned by Rivers Rutherford and released as a single from the album. Although it didn’t achieve significant commercial success on the charts, it has since become a beloved anthem for those who appreciate its rich storytelling and the iconic voices that brought it to life.
Musical Style
“American Remains” features a classic country sound, deeply rooted in the outlaw country genre that The Highwaymen helped to popularize. The instrumentation is straightforward yet powerful, with acoustic guitars, harmonica, and a steady rhythm section that perfectly complements the song’s narrative. Each member of The Highwaymen takes a turn at the lead, their distinctive voices adding depth and emotion to the characters they portray. The song’s structure, with its alternating verses and a unifying chorus, creates a sense of continuity, reinforcing the idea that these diverse characters are all part of the same American fabric.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “American Remains” paint a vivid picture of four different American characters: a drifter, a farmer, a soldier, and a worker. Each verse tells the story of one of these figures, highlighting their struggles, their pride, and their place in the broader narrative of American life. The chorus, which unites these disparate lives, speaks to the enduring nature of the American spirit—”I am a man of the land, I am an American remains.” The themes of perseverance, identity, and legacy are woven throughout the song, making it a poignant reflection on what it means to be a part of this vast, diverse nation.
Performance History
While “American Remains” may not have topped the charts, it has held a special place in the hearts of country music fans and has been performed by The Highwaymen during their tours. The group’s live performances of the song were always powerful, with each member’s unique style bringing a new dimension to the characters they embodied in the lyrics. Over time, the song has become a cult favorite among fans of The Highwaymen, appreciated for its storytelling and the way it captures the essence of American life.
Cultural Impact
“American Remains” is more than just a song; it’s a narrative that resonates with the experiences of many Americans. The characters in the song represent the backbone of the country, and their stories are universal in their depiction of struggle and resilience. The song has been used in various contexts to evoke a sense of pride and reflection, particularly in discussions about American identity and the experiences of everyday people. It stands as a testament to the power of storytelling in music and its ability to capture the spirit of a nation.
Legacy
Though it might not be the most commercially successful song by The Highwaymen, “American Remains” has left a lasting legacy. It continues to be appreciated by those who value its deep storytelling and the way it honors the American experience. The song’s relevance has not waned, and it remains a powerful reminder of the enduring spirit that characterizes the American identity. As long as there are stories to be told about the lives of ordinary people, “American Remains” will continue to resonate with new generations of listeners.
Conclusion
“American Remains” is a piece that goes beyond its musical composition; it’s a reflection of the human spirit and the resilience of a nation. Whether you’re a long-time fan of The Highwaymen or someone discovering their music for the first time, this song offers a profound insight into the lives of those who make up the fabric of America. I encourage you to listen to this track, perhaps with the same reverence that filled my childhood home, and let the stories within it remind you of the strength and perseverance that define us all. For an unforgettable experience, seek out the live performances by The Highwaymen, where the song truly comes to life
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