“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Some songs seem to encapsulate the entire essence of an era, a genre, or even a generation. “The Road Goes On Forever” by The Highwaymen is one such piece—a song that embodies the spirit of the Outlaw Country movement while celebrating the individual legacies of Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Kris Kristofferson, and Waylon Jennings. It’s more than just a track on an album; it’s a story, a celebration of freedom, and a tribute to the undying journey of country music.
About the Composition
- Title: The Road Goes On Forever
- Composer: Robert Earl Keen
- Premiere Date: 1995
- Album/Opus/Collection: The Road Goes on Forever (The Highwaymen Album)
- Genre: Country, Outlaw Country
Background
The Road Goes On Forever was originally written by Robert Earl Keen, a celebrated Texas singer-songwriter known for his knack for vivid storytelling. The song found new life when The Highwaymen—a supergroup comprising four of country music’s most iconic figures—brought it into their repertoire. The album of the same name was released in 1995, marking the group’s final project together. Keen’s tale of adventure, risk, and consequence perfectly fit the image and ethos of these legendary artists, whose own careers had often walked the line between rebellion and respectability.
The song’s narrative follows the story of two restless souls, Sonny and Sherry, navigating love, crime, and fate. Its vivid storytelling and outlaw themes resonated deeply with fans and perfectly complemented The Highwaymen’s individual personas. Though the album did not achieve massive commercial success, it solidified the group’s status as a powerful, albeit temporary, force in country music.
Musical Style
The musical style of The Road Goes On Forever is quintessential outlaw country, characterized by its raw, unpolished sound and straightforward instrumentation. The song primarily relies on traditional country elements—acoustic guitar, steel guitar, and steady drumming—that provide a steady backdrop to the story being told. What stands out, however, is the harmony of the four distinct voices, each bringing their unique timbre and personality to the piece. There’s an authenticity in the simplicity of the arrangement, allowing the narrative to take center stage and keeping listeners hooked until the very end.
Lyrics
The lyrics are a masterclass in narrative songwriting, beginning with the line, “Sherry was a waitress at the only joint in town.” It sets the stage for a cinematic tale of love and crime. The song’s protagonist, Sonny, is depicted as a reckless drifter who, along with Sherry, becomes entangled in a series of criminal escapades. The chorus, “The road goes on forever, and the party never ends,” is both a literal and metaphorical expression of the characters’ relentless pursuit of excitement, oblivious to the consequences that eventually catch up with them. The contrast between the upbeat musical tempo and the somber end to the story adds depth and irony to the piece.
Performance History
The Road Goes On Forever became a staple in The Highwaymen’s live performances, celebrated for its energy and storytelling. Each member of the group took turns leading different verses, adding layers of vocal texture to the song. Though it wasn’t a commercial hit, it was beloved by audiences who appreciated its narrative complexity and the way it showcased each artist’s strengths. Over the years, the song has been covered by multiple artists, further cementing its place in the outlaw country canon.
Cultural Impact
While the album itself didn’t achieve the same level of success as earlier Highwaymen projects, the song The Road Goes On Forever became an anthem for fans of the Outlaw Country genre. It encapsulated the spirit of the movement—unapologetically rebellious and deeply rooted in the traditions of storytelling. The song has since been featured in various media, reinforcing its cultural significance as a touchstone for those who value the authenticity and grit of country music.
Legacy
Today, The Road Goes On Forever stands as one of the definitive pieces of the Highwaymen’s catalog and a tribute to their lasting impact on country music. It represents not just the end of their collaboration, but a testament to the idea that the spirit of country music is eternal, always pushing boundaries and challenging norms. The song’s themes of love, crime, and the open road continue to resonate, making it a timeless piece that is still appreciated by new generations of fans.
Conclusion
There’s something special about The Road Goes On Forever. Perhaps it’s the way the song perfectly captures the ethos of Outlaw Country, or maybe it’s the unique blend of four legendary voices weaving together a single narrative. Whatever it is, this song remains a poignant reminder of the Highwaymen’s contribution to country music history. If you haven’t yet explored this track, it’s well worth the journey. Listen to it live to truly feel the power of their combined artistry—after all, the road really does go on forever.
Video
Lyrics
Sherry was a waitress
At the only joint in town
She had a reputation
As a girl who’d been around
Down main street after midnight
Brand new pack of cigs
A fresh one hanging from her lips
A beer between her legs
She’d ride down to the river
And meet with all her friends
The road goes on forever
And the party never ends
Sonny was a loner
Bolder than the rest
He was goin’ in the Navy
But he couldn’t pass the test
So he hung around town
He sold a little pot
The law caught wind of Sonny
One day he got caught
But he was back in business
When they set him free again
Sonny’s playin’ eight ball
At the joint where Sherry works
When some drunken out of towner
Put his hand up Sherry’s skirt
Sonny took his pool cue
Laid the drunk out on the floor
Stuffed a dollar in her tip jar
Walked on out the door
She’s runnin’ right behind him
Reachin’ for his hand
They jumped into his pick-u
Sonny jammed her down in gear
Sonny looked at Sherry
Said, “Let’s get out of here
The stars were high above them
The moon was in the east
The sun was setting on them
When they reached Miami Beach
They got a motel by the water
And a quart of Bombay Gin
They soon ran out of money
But Sonny knew a man
Who knew some Cuban refugees
Who dealt in contreband
Sonny met the Cuban
In a house just off the route
With a briefcase full of money
And a pistol in his boot
The cards were on the table
When the law came bustin’ in
The Cubans grabbed the goodies
And Sonny grabbed the jack
He broke the bathroom window
And climbed on out the back
Sherry drove the pick-up
Through the alley on the side
Where the lawman tackled Sonny
And was reading him his rights
She stepped out in the alley
With a single shot four-te
They left the lawman dyin’
They made their get away
Got back to the motel
Just before the break of day
Sonny gave her all the money
And he blew a little kiss
If they ask you how this happened
Say i forced you into this
She watched him as his tail lights
Disappeared around the bend
There’s main street after midnight
Just like it was before
Twenty-one months later
At the local grocery store
Sherry buys a paper
And a cold six pack of beer
The headlines read that Sonny
Is going to the chair
She pulls back onto main street
In her new Mercedes-Benz