Introduction
“City of New Orleans,” performed by The Highwaymen, is a poignant and enduring American folk song originally written by Steve Goodman. Released by The Highwaymen in 1985 as part of their debut self-titled album, the song took on new life with their signature blend of powerful voices, which included country legends Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, and Kris Kristofferson. Their rendition added a layer of depth and camaraderie that only these iconic voices could achieve.
The song’s origins trace back to 1970 when Goodman wrote it, inspired by a train journey he took on the Illinois Central line’s City of New Orleans route. Goodman’s lyrics capture a vivid snapshot of the American landscape and the bittersweet essence of rail travel in a time when train journeys were slowly fading from the cultural landscape. In 1972, Arlo Guthrie popularized the song with his rendition, bringing Goodman’s reflective and soulful narrative to a broader audience.
The Highwaymen’s version, released more than a decade later, further cemented the song’s legacy. Their performance highlighted the melancholy yet hopeful tone, transforming the train journey into a metaphor for life’s passage and the American spirit itself. The group’s unique harmonies brought a richer, more seasoned perspective, as each member’s gravelly, seasoned voice contributed to the song’s emotional depth.
The song is more than a mere tribute to a train; it serves as a reflection on loss, change, and the fleeting nature of time, resonating with listeners across generations. The Highwaymen’s version of “City of New Orleans” remains a classic interpretation, capturing the nostalgia and longing present in Goodman’s original vision while elevating it with their own legendary artistry.