Silver Ribbons
Waylon Jennings · Destiny's Child [Bear Family] [1999]
Travelin' down this lonesome railroad
Silver Ribbons with no ends
A million miles a crossties
Mark a million miles I've been.
I've picked peaches down in Georgia
Apples up in Maine
Pulled cotton out in Texas
Ridin' on the train.
I was just a lad of seventeen
My daddy turned me loose
Silver ribbons callin' me
Engine and caboose.
I can't recall my mother
She left when I was two
Brunetts, blondes and red heads
Were the only love I knew.
Don't ask me where I'm going
Don't ask me where I've been
Those silver ribbons will take me there
There and back again.
One more time back again
Travelin' to the tune of freight wheels
Is such a lonely sound
Hear that lonesome whistle blow
As leavin' another town.
I wish someone was waitin'
Somewhere to welcome me
Then those silver ribbons
Would see no more of me.
Don't ask me where I'm going
Don't ask me where I've been
Those silver ribbons will take me there
There and back again...
Silver Ribbons
Silver Ribbons stands as a testament to Waylon Jennings' enduring presence within the outlaw country movement. Recorded during a period of prolific output, the track captures the artist's signature baritone and his commitment to authentic storytelling. While often associated with his extensive catalog of hits, this recording highlights Jennings' ability to convey deep emotion through straightforward musical arrangements. The song reflects the broader themes of heartache and resilience that permeate his discography, showcasing his skill in crafting narratives that resonate with listeners across generations. As part of his substantial body of work, Silver Ribbons contributes to the rich tapestry of American country music, demonstrating why Jennings remains a pivotal figure in the genre's history.