Introduction
“American Remains” is a poignant country ballad recorded by the legendary country supergroup The Highwaymen for their 1990 album, “Highwayman 2.” Penned by Rivers Rutherford, the song weaves a tapestry of four historical figures whose stories intertwine with the American landscape.
The song begins with a shotgun rider for the “San Jacinto Line,” a fictional railroad that evokes images of the Wild West. His tale is followed by a card shark, a figure emblematic of the gambling culture that has long been a part of American life. Next comes a Midwest farmer, representing the backbone of the nation’s agricultural heritage. Finally, the song concludes with a Cherokee American Indian, acknowledging the indigenous people who were the original inhabitants of the land.
Unlike their earlier hit, “Highwayman,” which featured characters who were implied to be dead, “American Remains” focuses on the enduring legacy of these individuals. They are not mere ghosts of the past but rather living symbols of the American experience. The song’s lyrics emphasize their resilience and the indelible mark they have left on the country’s history.
“American Remains” is a powerful and evocative song that speaks to the heart of what it means to be American. It celebrates the diversity of the nation’s people and the richness of its history. The Highwaymen’s masterful performance, combined with Rutherford’s evocative lyrics, creates a timeless piece of Americana that continues to resonate with audiences today.