Billy The Kid
Tom Petty · Echo [1999]
Your friends had a laugh on me
Passed my name through the cantina
Yeah your face was hard to read
Something in your demeanor
Should of given you away
But I was desperate for a friend
I was getting used to making mistakes
Well I went down hard
Like Billy the Kid
Yeah, I went down hard
Yeah, but I got up again
I remember you my baby
I remember you so well
And your house out in the suburbs
You had your wishing well
They say be careful who you believe
Be careful who you trust
Did you smile when you pulled the trigger
That dropped me in the dust
Well, I went down hard
Like Billy the Kid
Yeah, I went down hard
Yeah, but I got up again
Well, you caught me in the bedroom
Cotton fever in a sweat
I was fighting for recovery
But I wasn't giving up yet
You offered no assistance
Yeah, you looked at me and you lied
Oh it really stunned me
When you went to the other side
I went down hard
Like Billy the Kid
Yeah, I went down hard
Oh, but I got up again
About Billy The Kid
Tom Petty's "Billy The Kid" stands as a standout track from his 1999 solo album *Echo*, showcasing his enduring ability to blend rock energy with narrative storytelling. The song captures the spirit of the outlaw legend through Petty's signature vocal delivery and melodic structure, reflecting themes of rebellion and the American frontier that have long defined his musical identity. Recorded during a period where Petty was exploring new sonic textures while maintaining his classic rock roots, the track exemplifies his skill in crafting anthems that resonate with listeners across generations. It serves as a testament to his capacity to reinterpret historical figures within a contemporary musical framework, ensuring the story of the Billy The Kid remains vivid and relevant. This recording further cements his legacy as a songwriter who could seamlessly transition between personal introspection and broader cultural commentary.