Introduction
In 1990, a group of legendary country music artists known as The Highwaymen released a powerful ballad titled “Big River.” The song tells the story of a man who leaves his home in the South and travels down the Mississippi River, hoping to find a better life. Along the way, he encounters a series of hardships and setbacks, but he never gives up on his dream.
The Highwaymen were formed in 1985 by Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, and Kris Kristofferson. They quickly became one of the most popular country music groups of the 1980s, releasing a string of hit albums and singles. “Big River” was one of their most successful songs, reaching the top 10 on the country charts.
The song was written by Kristofferson, who drew on his own personal experiences for inspiration. He had grown up in Texas and had spent much of his life traveling around the country. He knew the Mississippi River well, and he had seen firsthand the hardships that people faced in the South.
“Big River” is a moving and evocative song that captures the spirit of the American dream. It is a story of hope, perseverance, and the power of music to bring people together.