Introduction
“Two Stories Wide” is a track from The Highwaymen’s second studio album, Highwayman 2, released in 1990. This country supergroup—comprising Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, and Kris Kristofferson—came together in the mid-1980s, blending their distinctive styles to create a unique musical collaboration. The song was penned by Willie Nelson, who contributed two original compositions to the album: “Two Stories Wide” and “Texas.”
Lyrically, “Two Stories Wide” conveys a message about the complexities of human relationships and the importance of understanding multiple perspectives. The chorus emphasizes the depth and breadth of life’s experiences, suggesting that life is “too deep to measure” and “two stories wide.”
The album Highwayman 2 was produced by Chips Moman, who had previously worked with the group on their debut album. Recording sessions took place at Moman’s Music Mill in Nashville, featuring contributions from renowned session musicians. While the album didn’t achieve the same commercial success as its predecessor, it reached number 4 on the country charts and remained there for 40 weeks.
“Two Stories Wide” stands out as a testament to The Highwaymen’s ability to blend their individual talents into a cohesive sound. Nelson’s songwriting, combined with the group’s harmonious delivery, offers listeners a reflective piece on life’s dualities and the importance of empathy in human connections.