Big River

The Highwaymen · Other Songs - The Highwaymen

I taught the weeping willow how to cry,cry,cry

And I showed the clouds how to cover up a clear blue sky.

And the tears that I cried for that woman are gonna flood you big river.

Then I'm gonna sit right here until I die.



I met her accidently in st. paul {minnesota}.

And it tore me up every time heard her drawl, southern drawl.

Then I heard my dream was back down stream cavortin in Davinport,

And I followed you big river when she called.



Then you took me to St. Louis later on down the river.

A freighter said she's been here but she's boy she's gone.

I found her trail in memphis, but she just walked up the block.

She raised a few eyebrows and then she went on down alone.



well I pulled in to natches next day down the river

but the warden was there to make the round to stay very long

when I left it was raining, so nobody

saw me crawl

Big river why you doing me this way



Now, won't you batter down by baton rouge, river queen, roll it on.

Take that woman on down to New Orleans, New orleans.

Go i've had enough; dump my blues down in the gulf.

She loves you, Big River, moren than me.



I taught the weeping willow how to cry, cry,cry

I showed the clouds how to cover up a clear blue sky.

And the tears that I cried for that woman are gonna flood you Big River

Then I'm gonna sit right here until I die.



Thanks to mike o.

Big River - The Highwaymen

The Highwaymen's 1976 recording of 'Big River' stands as a defining moment in outlaw country history, blending the band's signature blend of rock and western themes with a hauntingly beautiful melody. Originally written by Merle Travis, the song was reimagined here with a driving rhythm and a vocal performance that captured the weary spirit of the American West. Released following the tragic death of Merle Haggard, the track became an anthem for the genre, reflecting on themes of migration and the enduring pull of the frontier. Its enduring popularity stems from its ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia and resilience, cementing The Highwaymen's legacy as the custodians of outlaw country music.