The Meaning Behind The Song: American Remains by The Highwaymen

Introduction

As a fan of country music, there are certain songs that resonate with you on a deeper level. One such song for me is “American Remains” by The Highwaymen. This powerful and thought-provoking song, released in 1990 as part of their album Highwayman II, tells the stories of four fictional yet very real individuals in America. Each verse gives us a glimpse into the struggles and triumphs these characters have faced in their lives.

Table of Contents

Exploring the Lyrics

The song starts with the first verse, introducing us to a “shotgun rider” for the San Jacinto line. This character represents the resilience and determination of the working class. Despite being shot in the chest by bandits, he declares that they will never get the best of better men like him. This verse highlights the indomitable spirit of those who face adversity head-on.

Moving on to the second verse, we meet a “river gambler” who makes a living dealing cards. This character’s clothes may be smooth and honest, but his heart is cold and hard. Despite facing a setback when he is thrown overboard for allegedly cheating, he proclaims that he will rise again. This verse highlights the theme of redemption and second chances.

The chorus brings all these characters together, reaffirming their status as heroes of the homeland. Their stories represent the many faces and names of America, and their memories live on in the minds of mortals and the verses penned by poets. The chorus gives us a sense of unity and resilience, as these characters refuse to be forgotten or left behind.

The third verse introduces us to a “mid-west farmer” who relies on the land for his livelihood. However, a lack of rainfall threatens his crops, and despite the bank man’s assurances, he knows that his fate lies in the hands of nature. This verse highlights the struggles faced by those dependent on the land, and the unyielding determination to persevere in the face of uncertainty.

Finally, the fourth verse brings us an “American Indian” from the Cherokee tribe. This character reflects on the cruelty and destruction brought upon their people by the arrival of the white man with their boats, trains, and factories. Despite their best efforts to beat down nature, it is made clear that they will never win. The verse emphasizes the connection between nature and humanity, and the consequences of trying to overpower it.

Additional Information

“American Remains” is part of The Highwaymen’s second album, Highwayman II, released on February 9, 1990. The song was produced by Chips Moman and written by Rivers Rutherford. Its lyrics beautifully capture the essence of the American spirit and the diverse stories of its people.

The four-part structure of the song not only works well for a supergroup like The Highwaymen but also mirrors their biggest hit, “Highwayman.” This structure allows each member to shine individually while harmonizing as a group, creating a powerful and cohesive sound.

In conclusion, “American Remains” by The Highwaymen is a song that goes beyond a mere musical composition. It embodies the struggles, resilience, and triumphs of different individuals in America. Its lyrics touch upon themes of determination, redemption, unity, and the unbreakable bond between humanity and nature. The song continues to captivate listeners, reminding us of the enduring spirit that resides within us all.

ncG1vNJzZminnJnBqrnEpqysoZNjsLC5jq2fnmWdmq6vtc2gZJudmJ67pXnToZxmq5%2BjtG6tzJ6popuRo3qzscyaoKerXZfGbsDHnmShoZedxKLFzJ6lZmpf