Cactus Texas
Waylon Jennings · Right for the Time [Justice] [1996]
Do you remember Cactus Texas
Nothing but a wide place in the road
Eighteen wheelers never go there
Main Street's just too narrow for the load.
A little town of honest people
Some we haven't seen for quite awhile
I was young and restless
And we both were full of dreams and running wild.
We left our old hometown and family
Barely had a nickel to our name
We were out to win the world
Not once looking back or losing aim.
We hit the big town and the big time
Not a lot of effort in the deal
But in the bargain we lost touch with one another
And old feelings that were real.
--- Instrumental ---
In a big house up on easy street
Where too much never seems to be enough
We're not the same two people far away
From all the days when the times were rough.
Including you and I
Is separated by a wall
It's not something we can talk about
In fact we seldom even talk at all.
--- Instrumental ---
I don't think we realize
How or why we ever came this far
Let's go back to Cactus Texas
Maybe once we're there we'll find out where we are...
About Cactus Texas
"Cactus Texas" stands as a defining track in Waylon Jennings' career, capturing the rugged spirit of the outlaw country movement with its distinctive blend of twang and steel guitar. Released on the album *Right for the Time [Justice] [1996]*, the song reflects Jennings' signature style, characterized by his gravelly vocals and a sound that prioritized authenticity over polished production. This recording exemplifies the genre's emphasis on storytelling and the individual artist's voice, resonating deeply within the broader landscape of 1970s and 1980s country music. The track serves as a testament to Jennings' ability to craft anthems that celebrated the American West while maintaining a personal connection with his audience. Its enduring popularity highlights the song's role in cementing Jennings' legacy as a pivotal figure in the genre. By focusing on the musical arrangement and the emotional weight of the performance, the song remains a crucial addition to the catalog of classic country recordings, offering listeners a glimpse into the era's musical landscape and the artist's unique contribution to it.