El Paso
Roy Drusky · All American Country (Spectrum) [1986]
Out in the west Texas town of El Paso
I fell in love with a Mexican girl
Night time would find me in Rosa's Cantina
The music would play and Felina would whirl.
One night a wild young cowboy came in
Wild as the west Texas wind
Dancin' and darin' a drink he was sharing
With wicked Felina the girl that I love.
So in anger I challenged his right for the love of this maiden
Down went his hand for the gun that he wore
My challenege was answered in less than a heartbeat
The handsome young stranger lay dead on the floor.
Just for a moment I stood there in silence
shocked by the foul evil deed I had done
Many thoughts race through my mind as I stood there
I had but one chance and that was to run.
I saddled up and away I did go
Riding alone in the dark
Maybe tomorrow a bullet may find me
Tonight nothin's worse than this pain in my heart.
And at last here I am on the hill overlooking El Paso
I can see Rosa's Cantina below
My love is strong and it pushes me onward
Down off the hill to Felina I go.
Off to my right I see five mounted cowboys
Off to my left ride a dozen or more
Shouting and shooting I can't let them catch me
I have to make it to Rosa's back door.
I see the white puff of smoke from the rifle
I feel the bullet go deep in my chest
From out of nowhere Felina has found me
Kissing my cheek as she kneels by my side
Cradled by two loving arms that I'll die for
One little kiss and Felina goodbye...
El Paso - Roy Drusky
Roy Drusky's 'El Paso' stands as a defining recording of the Nashville Sound era, blending smooth vocal delivery with polished orchestration to create a timeless country classic. Released on the 'All American Country (Spectrum) [1986]' album, this track exemplifies Drusky's signature style, characterized by his rich baritone and sophisticated arrangements that bridged traditional folk with modern pop sensibilities. The song became a staple of his discography, reflecting the genre's evolution in the late 1960s and beyond. Its enduring appeal lies in its melodic structure and the way it captures the romanticized imagery of the American West without relying on overtly rustic instrumentation. As a key part of Drusky's catalog, the recording remains a touchstone for listeners exploring the golden age of country music, showcasing how artists like Drusky helped shape the polished, radio-friendly sound that defined the industry for decades.