Introduction
“The Twentieth Century Is Almost Over” by The Highwaymen is a haunting reflection on the passing of time and the changing world. Released in 1985, the song features the legendary voices of Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, and Kris Kristofferson, creating a powerful and evocative tribute to an era coming to a close.
The song begins with a slow, somber melody, setting the tone for the introspective lyrics. Cash’s deep, resonant voice narrates the passage of time, “The twentieth century is almost over, the twentieth century, oh, is almost over.” He speaks of the world’s changes, “We’ve been around and revolving doors all over this world,” acknowledging the challenges and triumphs of the past century.
Jennings’ voice takes over, describing the anxiety and uncertainty that accompanies the end of an era. He sings, “Everybody’s waiting for something to happen, I hope it don’t happen to you.” The fear of the unknown and the desire for stability are palpable in his words.
Nelson’s soulful voice adds a touch of melancholy to the song, as he reflects on the inevitability of time passing. He sings, “You know the judgment day is getting nearer, there it is in the rearview mirror.” This line highlights the sense of mortality that accompanies the end of a century.
Kristofferson’s voice concludes the song with a hopeful note, “If you duck down I could see a little clearer.” He suggests that by taking a step back and looking at the world from a different perspective, we can gain a greater understanding of the changes taking place.
The song’s arrangement is simple yet effective, with acoustic guitars and harmonicas providing a gentle backdrop to the powerful vocals. The harmonies between the four singers are seamless, creating a sense of unity and shared experience.
“The Twentieth Century Is Almost Over” is a timeless classic that speaks to the universal human experience of change and loss. The song’s lyrics are poignant and thought-provoking, while the music is both haunting and beautiful. It remains a powerful testament to the enduring power of music to capture the human spirit and reflect the complexities of the world around us.