Introduction
“The Border” is a song written by Rodney Crowell and Allen Shamblin and recorded by American country music artist Willie Nelson. It was released on May 31, 2024, as the first single from his 75th solo studio album of the same name.
The song tells the story of a border patrol guard who sees the harsh realities of life on the border between the United States and Mexico. The guard witnesses poverty, desperation, and violence, and he comes to understand the complexities of the situation. The song has been praised for its honest and unflinching portrayal of the border crisis.
Nelson’s version of the song is a powerful and moving performance. His weathered voice conveys the weight of the guard’s experiences, and his delivery is both compassionate and critical. The song is a reminder of the human cost of the border crisis, and it calls for a more humane and compassionate approach to immigration policy.