Merle Haggard, Willie Nelson - Pancho and Lefty (Video)

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  • Опубликовано: 23 дек 2024

Комментарии • 8 тыс.

  • @cerconefamily2912
    @cerconefamily2912 Год назад +31

    My grandfather was a troubled man. An orphan, an alcoholic and was severely abused as a child. He was really strong and very smart. He became very successful and had two beautiful daughters one of whom was my mother. When he got everything he ever wanted he destroyed because he was scared someone would take it all away. He drank himself into oblivion in a bar he had built in his house. My mother and her sister forbid us from seeing him but when I grew up I was really drawn to him. We had a great relationship and I helped mend the fences. We were all there at his deathbed. My mother cried like I've never seen before and he had a soldiers burial in Arlington. This was his favorite song. R.I.P. Granpa I hope you know everyone loved you.

    • @philschuler9674
      @philschuler9674 Месяц назад +3

      Thats a beautiful and tragic story. God bless you and your Grandfather.

    • @samueldewey5528
      @samueldewey5528 9 дней назад

      My grandparents raised me n i never quite got to know my real dad n relate to this story R.I.P. GRAMPA love you much n miss ya

    • @KimCritchlow-cn3yf
      @KimCritchlow-cn3yf 2 дня назад

      Nice tribute

    • @thejoker2000
      @thejoker2000 День назад

      Grandpas are always the first to go before you know. Their feelings are eternal.

  • @Martin.Wilson
    @Martin.Wilson Год назад +295

    Townes said that he really couldn't take credit for writing this song because it came to him like a thunderbolt. He said he felt like this song was just passing through him and all he did was write it down. Typical of the humble man he was.

    • @Rosemary-rh7nt
      @Rosemary-rh7nt 8 месяцев назад +11

      That was the perfect explanation of this song......❤thank you......❤❤❤❤❤😊😊😊😊😊

    • @noeldeal8087
      @noeldeal8087 7 месяцев назад +5

      I seem to write poetry when I lose someone I love or when I'm really really hurt. Kinda just flows out...

    • @javanautski
      @javanautski 6 месяцев назад +10

      Perfect gifts come from above - just have to be humble enough to receive this

    • @PaEMT_FF9
      @PaEMT_FF9 5 месяцев назад +2

      💯%

    • @davidsimmons5936
      @davidsimmons5936 5 месяцев назад +1

      I tell you only believing God healed you your family I'm David Austin Simmons gold Beach Oregon neskia by Ophir hardtack ridge Pima messiah hi grandson I declare God healed you your family I suppose

  • @humbertohernandez3067
    @humbertohernandez3067 8 месяцев назад +206

    All these classics are fading away , just like I am . I guess that's the way it is . I'm glad to take them with me.

    • @lethalchase1065
      @lethalchase1065 8 месяцев назад +21

      19 from Oklahoma will play this song all my life

    • @annoyedbrox4851
      @annoyedbrox4851 8 месяцев назад +15

      ​@@lethalchase1065 16, from India of all places, I love this song, country music and the open air, these classics are timeless and won't go nowhere.

    • @travismiles5885
      @travismiles5885 8 месяцев назад +12

      Nah bro, if it's good the younger generations pick up on it. I dont know how old you are but I'm almost 50 and a die hard metal head 🤘🏻 I grew up with my older family members playing this kind of stuff and I was just to angsty and full of youthful defiance to listen to "old people music." Now that I've lived long enough to experience life I get this music. It takes a long time for an acorn to grow into a mighty oak. I still love my head banger stuff but Waylon Willie, Johnny and the rest are right there next to them in my playlists, keeping company with all the great classic rockers from the 60s and 70s. Cream rises to the top. Dont fret you're leaving it in good hands. Thank you for keeping it alive, we found it because of cats like you. Take that with you and leave the music so we can pay it forward.

    • @jbmusic4095
      @jbmusic4095 8 месяцев назад +8

      @@lethalchase1065 lets fucking go brother, forever. keep it real and honour our ancestors

    • @peytonledbetter6007
      @peytonledbetter6007 8 месяцев назад +2

      Making it my mission to instill these masterpieces in my kids when I have some. A piece of you will live on with that.

  • @jamesknutson8684
    @jamesknutson8684 Год назад +145

    One of my dad's favorite songs. I lost him two weeks ago. Listening to Willie's music, it's almost like he's here with me.

    • @christiewood1458
      @christiewood1458 Год назад +7

      So sorry for your loss; may his memory be a blessing. 💙💚🙏🏼💚💙

    • @tyler1671
      @tyler1671 Год назад +6

      Chin up... this pain never goes away

    • @Pietro7383
      @Pietro7383 Год назад +4

      You are fortune to have a dad who introduced you to music with deep messages!

    • @gabefields8012
      @gabefields8012 11 месяцев назад +2

      My dad loved this song also. He passed away in 2011. I first heard this one when I was 15 with my dad, which was odd considering I was a metalhead. I moved 150 miles away from him when I turned 18 so I didn't see him nearly as often but in a sense he lives on in these songs. Sorry for your loss

    • @stepinthyme1624
      @stepinthyme1624 10 месяцев назад +4

      I’m so sorry for your loss. I lost my Dad in 2020 and my Ex in 2022-the pain hurts, but the music helps.

  • @jimmycollette9209
    @jimmycollette9209 2 года назад +883

    Willie, Merle, and Towns all in one video. Three of the worlds greatest singer songwriters ever in the same video. Don't get any better. Miss you Towns and Merle. Hang in there Willie.

    • @charlesbrowngodhelpmeimiss4907
      @charlesbrowngodhelpmeimiss4907 2 года назад +11

      Page from my life

    • @regdavies5737
      @regdavies5737 Год назад +15

      This song was also recorded by Emmy Lou Harris, and it was her version that Willie Nelson first heard.

    • @clemep
      @clemep Год назад +38

      I think very few people know that Townes Van Zandt wrote this...

    • @reggiehall7612
      @reggiehall7612 Год назад +26

      Seems to me that Townes lived a hard life. I'm grateful he gave us this before he departed.

    • @caronmacisaac208
      @caronmacisaac208 Год назад +1

      Oh my god.. I am going to cry face off when will goes..all these country superstars. Nobody will ever be able to come even close. Their stellar and have left an infinity of perfect. Check me out@ caron macisaac(youtubevideo)

  • @gwenyffyr
    @gwenyffyr Год назад +274

    Recently I sang this a Capella for the folks in the assisted living facility where I live myself. No one had ever heard of it before. I won our talent show as a result. Until this time no-one there knew I could sing! I made a few new Willy and Merle fans out of them😊

  • @crz-impact3677
    @crz-impact3677 Год назад +331

    That tasty little lick after Merle’s delivery of “now he’s growing old” gives me goosebumps 100% of the time

    • @garryspowerpointpresentati6125
      @garryspowerpointpresentati6125 Год назад +4

      took me weeks to learn it

    • @mickeyphillips6603
      @mickeyphillips6603 Год назад +13

      “Say a few for Lefty too. He only did what he had to do.” Those lines always give me goosebumps.

    • @janetrevino8709
      @janetrevino8709 Год назад +4

      Brings me to tears..

    • @gracewomack4228
      @gracewomack4228 Год назад +12

      ...we are all getting old...those of us who are lucky enough...

    • @mattmatt6572
      @mattmatt6572 Год назад +4

      Get old or die trying... my grandfather always told me getting old ain't for sissies.

  • @edwardsjohnpaul
    @edwardsjohnpaul 10 месяцев назад +239

    Willie Nelson was 48 yrs old, and Merle Haggard was 44, in 1981. Wow. It's like Willie got old fast, and has stayed old forever.

    • @gtfochimba
      @gtfochimba 10 месяцев назад +16

      Right?! He looked AT LEAST 70 here lol

    • @Truerealism747
      @Truerealism747 10 месяцев назад +7

      ​@@gtfochimbastrange and amazing how he hasn't that must since then in reality

    • @christienelson1437
      @christienelson1437 10 месяцев назад +14

      But still young at heart.💕💕🙏

    • @heathermilligan393
      @heathermilligan393 9 месяцев назад +6

      My momma was born in 43, she had a vinyl record cover with Willie in a suit and clean cut, I was born in 1980, she loved her some Willie clean and long haired ❤

    • @lucas_almeida10
      @lucas_almeida10 8 месяцев назад +1

      People looked older by that time

  • @randybrewer2019
    @randybrewer2019 Год назад +141

    What the hell? Why is this song so soul ripping? There are only a few songs that last through multiple generations, yet still educe nape hair goosebumps. May God bless Townes, Nelson and Haggard. American icons.

    • @theleap2946
      @theleap2946 6 месяцев назад +3

      I was grateful to see Haggard play in my home town for the first, and sadly the last time. It was weird. “I’ll see you next year!” he said, but he died the next year instead. It was a great night. Modern country fans who were probably wondering what the fuss about were cohabitating a space with old country lovers who probably watched all these old crooners in their primes. Ten gallon hats eveywhere, with farmers and country people in their best clothes and then dufusses like me that love metal and hardcore, but grew up with this music, all watching in a 100-year old theater. Heck of a night. This should be a country song itself.

    • @johnstack4316
      @johnstack4316 4 месяца назад

      It was sad to see Townes vansandt who actually wrote the song do a cameo appearance.

  • @kp7502
    @kp7502 8 месяцев назад +25

    The song tells the story of two outlaw characters, Pancho and Lefty. Pancho is portrayed as a Mexican bandit, while Lefty is his American accomplice. The lyrics depict the betrayal of Pancho by Lefty, who turns him in for a reward. The song explores themes of friendship, betrayal, loyalty, and the harsh realities of life on the run.

    • @paulruiz4518
      @paulruiz4518 7 месяцев назад +3

      People used to say the song was about Pancho Villa life story?.... There "Might" be some Similarities; Pancho Villa did have Americans fighting in his Army. He was betrayed by those who were close to him or (set-up in the ambush in Parral, Chihuahua México) My 2- grandfather's on both sides, lived in that part of Mexico, Durango where Pancho Villa was from and lived in his, hacienda during that time period.
      My Dad was 2- yrs. old when Pancho Villa was killed, and during the Mexican Revolution there was certainly lots of; killing, betrayals, friendship and loyalty around? It must have been Crazy Not Knowing Who to Trust or Not!!!

    • @gwyngriffiths3669
      @gwyngriffiths3669 7 месяцев назад +5

      @@paulruiz4518 The writer of the song Townes Van Zandt specifically said the song was NOT about Pancho Villa

    • @paulruiz4518
      @paulruiz4518 7 месяцев назад +1

      @gwyngriffiths3669 that's correct? But I said "Similarities" Not the same?

    • @azul_6.5-cf7dm
      @azul_6.5-cf7dm 6 месяцев назад +4

      @@paulruiz4518the Mexican revolution was the real “Wild West” the u.s just copied the culture and made it into cowboy western movies. Anglos from Texas aren’t aware that they copied the cowboy culture from Mexican vaqueros/mexican cowboys. Anglos migrated to Texas,Mexico as pilgrims.

    • @paulruiz4518
      @paulruiz4518 6 месяцев назад

      ​@azul_6.5-cf7dm That's Absolutely True!!.....

  • @mikeivey6504
    @mikeivey6504 2 года назад +257

    Townes Van Zandt wrote this incredible song and we should all be thankful that these two legends covered it so masterfully. Nice to see Townes get to be in the video.

    • @gar949
      @gar949 2 года назад +7

      yes it is

    • @Tsuma_Vento
      @Tsuma_Vento 2 года назад +19

      Townes has gotten more appreciation over the years, but I think he's still massively underrated when you put him up against the famous country artists.

    • @Kontomanikos1964
      @Kontomanikos1964 Год назад +3

      He is appearing in the video many times

    • @jasonmcgarity971
      @jasonmcgarity971 Год назад +2

      Townes at 1.01 in

    • @DrawFlush
      @DrawFlush Год назад +1

      Exactly! Credit needs to go to Van Zandt. Although this is a nice version, nothing compares ruclips.net/video/zprRZ2wFQD4/видео.html

  • @rickhensley5963
    @rickhensley5963 9 месяцев назад +286

    Now this song is real C&W music. Not the half-baked twangy bill shit of today.

    • @charliewhite9777
      @charliewhite9777 5 месяцев назад

      Check out Daryll Mc Call " the weeds outlived the roses " ( 1976)

    • @JamesBond-ym2gv
      @JamesBond-ym2gv 5 месяцев назад

      Your absolutely right 💯💪🤠

    • @iwantmynametobeaslongaspos7194
      @iwantmynametobeaslongaspos7194 5 месяцев назад +12

      Finally someone who agrees with me. Modern country is trash but old country is amazing. A lot of people say they hate all country but old country is art. This is coming from a big rap fan, I genuinely love country

    • @JimmyGelhaar
      @JimmyGelhaar 5 месяцев назад

      Preach it!!

    • @toddbob55
      @toddbob55 4 месяца назад +5

      agreed ... january 1st of 2000 country music died

  • @Joe-bg7is
    @Joe-bg7is Год назад +83

    We all live and we all die

    • @RodWilliams-y9b
      @RodWilliams-y9b 5 месяцев назад +1

      Sad but true!!!!😢

    • @charlesbrowngodhelpmeimiss4907
      @charlesbrowngodhelpmeimiss4907 2 месяца назад

      True my friend

    • @StevenAdams-zj8tx
      @StevenAdams-zj8tx Месяц назад

      Yea but left sold out Pancho for the reward money they were friends great betrayal

    • @Disent0101
      @Disent0101 Месяц назад +1

      AND GRASS IS GREEN, MEANWHILE WATER IS WET!

    • @halfson9261
      @halfson9261 Месяц назад +1

      When I die, I'm going to be whisked across the universe to settle down and meet my soul mate

  • @minniesmomma6374
    @minniesmomma6374 Год назад +62

    A classic!
    I am 64. When this came out I was way younger and not thinking of getting old.
    Life goes by so quickly and songs like this make me wish I was young again and could relive it all again. Don’t know why.

    • @greglewis1146
      @greglewis1146 Год назад +4

      10,4

    • @Michael65429
      @Michael65429 Год назад +7

      I turn 70 tomorrow and this song makes me realize I have wasted my life away, wish I could change my past, and sad that it's gonna be over soon. Peace and love is what it's all about y'all...

    • @timmarkham1728
      @timmarkham1728 Год назад

      I agree

    • @runyourrace2finish910
      @runyourrace2finish910 Год назад +1

      I’m right there with you brother. We are here then we are gone.

    • @k4door789
      @k4door789 8 месяцев назад

      Me too makes me cry ..

  • @dmreynolds3971
    @dmreynolds3971 3 года назад +349

    I love Willie’s voice ….but when Merle’s voice comes in, my heart rises. I had the pleasure to see Merle in concert in Marietta, Georgia before he died. Checked a bucket-list box.

    • @jeremybilbee9451
      @jeremybilbee9451 3 года назад +6

      I got to see him in Branson, Missouri. I'll never forgive myself for going to buy souvenirs at break and being outside of the room when he sang Silver Wings...my favorite song of his hands down. He was gone before I had a chance for redemption.

    • @chiefwork1790
      @chiefwork1790 2 года назад +7

      Yep willie’s voice is pretty underrated

    • @chiefwork1790
      @chiefwork1790 2 года назад +4

      Are you a big fan of his?

    • @yuvettealbright9441
      @yuvettealbright9441 2 года назад +4

      This is the best ever

    • @docasbroadway9049
      @docasbroadway9049 2 года назад +2

      I also love the way he sings and it gives me memories to the good old days anway how are you doing?

  • @Butchsiek
    @Butchsiek Год назад +53

    Hard to imagine, Willie has been in Music for 83 years..
    67 Professionally .
    First song he wrote at the age of 7.

  • @redstateforever
    @redstateforever 3 года назад +77

    Love Willie, but when The Hag starts in...damn. That voice is smooth as silk, there’ll never be another. The working man’s poet.

    • @thepianist7084
      @thepianist7084 2 года назад +3

      I've thought that for years. That entry of Merle is just....

    • @amerigodiehl7426
      @amerigodiehl7426 3 месяца назад +1

      I honestly think it's the best part of an already amazing song,

    • @bazthehandyman
      @bazthehandyman 7 дней назад

      Absolutely

  • @m.g.n4898
    @m.g.n4898 Год назад +39

    Ah, Townes Van Zandt - what an amazing writer! Always goosebumps.

  • @randyjohnson2936
    @randyjohnson2936 Год назад +35

    One of the best ever written" thank you you boys ❤

  • @SJ-ni6iy
    @SJ-ni6iy Год назад +20

    Seeing Townes in the background is my favorite part of the video. A beautifully written song, made even better by the legends singing it.❤

  • @brushylake4606
    @brushylake4606 7 месяцев назад +38

    Poncho needs your prayers, it's true...but save a few for Lefty too.
    Heartbreaking.

  • @acemulligan7010
    @acemulligan7010 3 года назад +671

    Heavy metal maniac here.
    THIS SONG IS A MASTERPIECE!
    Every once in a while, I come here, set it to loop, and let it play.
    Today is one of those days.

    • @KartKrasher
      @KartKrasher 3 года назад +30

      Listen to the original by townes van zandt

    • @shanesantana54
      @shanesantana54 3 года назад +21

      I'm with you brother! I'm still old school metal with Pantera, Metallica, Slayer and Motorhead.

    • @ChollaRanch
      @ChollaRanch 3 года назад +15

      As an old-time Texas cattle rancher, I never was a metalhead . . . till I heard the folk rock/Hunnu rock/heavy metal Mongolian band: The HU. They've toured Texas twice now (2019 and 2021), and their heartfelt ballads, Metallica-approved covers, and straight-up rock hold my full attention. As for the Hag, his last performance was given just a few miles down the road from me, at the Nutty Brown Cafe in 2015. Forever memorable. RIP, Merle Haggard.

    • @Eclectic999
      @Eclectic999 3 года назад +4

      🤘

    • @mazrio128
      @mazrio128 3 года назад +6

      Metal head here : Listen to the (specific) Townes Van Zandt - Rear View Mirror (live album) track #1 to hear the Greatest version (just 2 guitars and a fiddle). Love this one though.

  • @jerimiahhamby4790
    @jerimiahhamby4790 6 месяцев назад +159

    I love the gave the writer of this song a cameo in this video.
    RIP Townes Van Sandt. Writing legend

    • @BMauneyGearmaker
      @BMauneyGearmaker 6 месяцев назад +9

      I noticed that as well. All these years and today I noticed this.

    • @jerimiahhamby4790
      @jerimiahhamby4790 6 месяцев назад +2

      @@BMauneyGearmaker in all honesty, I didn’t know until it was pointed out to me on another RUclips page that plays the video. Might have been this one if you scroll far enough.

    • @davidcook7528
      @davidcook7528 6 месяцев назад +3

      Listen to Snowing on Raton...another great by TVS.

    • @Calebevansmusic
      @Calebevansmusic 6 месяцев назад

      I just noticed that.

    • @alexanderdeppa8044
      @alexanderdeppa8044 5 месяцев назад +7

      Can honestly credit Townes for getting me through my worst bouts of depression in my younger years. If I have a son I want to name them after him.

  • @shaneellis9519
    @shaneellis9519 Год назад +3

    I'm from Austin and I've seen Willie a few times in my 50yrs. I was lucky my friend Gabriel Roads mom sang backup for Willie. I met Willie at that Christmas party. He was a kind gentleman. We even shared a bowl lol. Such a great memory.

  • @BeefbrothHD3L
    @BeefbrothHD3L 4 года назад +764

    Im 19 and just started listening to Willie Nelson, Merle, the highway men etc. And it's the best music ive ever heard

    • @mattblake9936
      @mattblake9936 4 года назад +13

      me too man

    • @susandufour8749
      @susandufour8749 4 года назад +24

      Oh, i may need to adopt you as a musical grandson!

    • @BeefbrothHD3L
      @BeefbrothHD3L 4 года назад +8

      @@susandufour8749 bettt

    • @heyjack3184
      @heyjack3184 4 года назад +19

      Keep listening to old country my friend, it gets better. It will help you in life. May God bless you in your adventures in life.

    • @UTCUTR
      @UTCUTR 4 года назад +16

      Good for you my young friend. I am 35. I been listening to him since I was a pup. I now hold willie has my higher power. All men should believe in willie.

  • @jrad1593
    @jrad1593 3 года назад +276

    My 2 yr old wants me to play this song for him before bed almost every night...he sings along. Music lovers young and old will continue appreciate these guys.

    • @klaire1058
      @klaire1058 3 года назад +4

      He’ll remember it for life

    • @dianachester8106
      @dianachester8106 3 года назад +8

      My 21 yr old GRANDSON Used to call it "NANA'S SONG!!".We played it over and over from Dallas to Oklahoma!! He would say, "PLAY NANA'S SONG!"HE STILL REMEMBERS IT AND ALWAYS WILL!! "SOOO ADORABLE!"

    • @ldaick2358
      @ldaick2358 2 года назад +3

      An old soul✌️🥺

    • @douglasanderson542
      @douglasanderson542 2 года назад +5

      Keep your eye on that boy he’s going places fast🤠

    • @IshDaFishPickleball
      @IshDaFishPickleball 2 года назад +3

      thats the people we need these days, and forget about life for awhile

  • @Mongo1940
    @Mongo1940 5 лет назад +1550

    Rest In Peace Townes Van Zant who wrote this classic. He's in this video in several scenes.
    Great song writer.

    • @ericloveday3647
      @ericloveday3647 5 лет назад +58

      You got that right. He was Texas Bob Dylan

    • @ericloveday3647
      @ericloveday3647 5 лет назад +54

      Obviously Willie and Merle had great respect for him

    • @randyelliott9152
      @randyelliott9152 5 лет назад +60

      They should have put Townes name with the other credits at the top of the page.R.I.P.Townes and Merle.We still got Willie

    • @diannmabus5114
      @diannmabus5114 5 лет назад +33

      But even better than Dylan.

    • @eclecticmusica
      @eclecticmusica 5 лет назад +20

      @@ericloveday3647 He was America's Bob Dylan. Dylan will tell you that.

  • @MarlaHoneycutt
    @MarlaHoneycutt 10 месяцев назад +69

    I play this song all the time my mom was my best friend and loving mom. She just passed away at 91 . I miss her so much
    Thanks for this song.❤

    • @SNBoomer4ever
      @SNBoomer4ever 10 месяцев назад +5


      91 is a long-lived life. I hope you find comfort in that and take care of yourself. Your mom is resting well.

    • @danlogan5657
      @danlogan5657 9 месяцев назад +4

      sorry for your loss

    • @MarlaHoneycutt
      @MarlaHoneycutt 9 месяцев назад +3

      @@danlogan5657 Thank youGod bless you.

  • @Johnnysthunder
    @Johnnysthunder 3 года назад +215

    Never forget Townes Van Zandt, the genius that wrote this epic, epic song...

    • @jimoliver535
      @jimoliver535 3 года назад +16

      ...and he's in this vid. :-D

    • @alicelovell3905
      @alicelovell3905 3 года назад +1

      What a Genius Song writer!

    • @JJX921
      @JJX921 3 года назад +3

      Yes Sir. He wrote the best ballad in Country Music History.

    • @brucebehner4142
      @brucebehner4142 3 года назад +1

      @@Jeffbambam no

    • @kobebarka8633
      @kobebarka8633 3 года назад +6

      When you see Willie and Merle sitting at the table with the Townes the next table over, it zooms in close on willie and his head his looking in Townes direction singing to him.

  • @charlie81980
    @charlie81980 Год назад +84

    Reminds me of my grandpa. We would listen to this on cassette tape of Willie Nelson called ‘half Nelson’. A tape of songs that Willie did with other singers. I am almost 43. Grandpa passed away when I was 16 and I still miss him everyday. It is amazing how one person can have such an impact in this world. When grandpa passed I lost my fishing partner. I don’t go camping anymore. Haven’t been to Montana or go on summer trips much like we use to. However, it is also because of grandpa that I never tried alcohol or drugs. He had his sobriety at the three year mark when I was born and maintained that until he passed away. He was straight up with me and lead me down the correct path. Miss you grandpa.

    • @kristalxleigh07
      @kristalxleigh07 Год назад +2

      I still have my grandmother's Willie Nelson cassette tape. Takes me back in time to the backseat of her car listening to good ole Willie.

    • @gabefields8012
      @gabefields8012 11 месяцев назад +2

      Sorry for your loss.. thank God for solid parents/grandparents. There is not enough of them anymore

    • @playinem121
      @playinem121 10 месяцев назад +2

      Charlie81980-Your grandfather sounds like a very GOOD man and I am betting that you are a good solid man yourself. Like you, I have been blessed to have some incredible influences in and upon my life. Most of them are gone now but I like to think that somewhere in some way they are still watching me. It helps me sometimes to do the next right thing and every now and then to make better decisions than I might without the love and respect I have for those who showed me the way. I hope there are people in your life who are just coming up and can benefit from your examples and experiences just as you did with your grandfather. Thank you for sharing your story brother.

    • @playinem121
      @playinem121 10 месяцев назад

      Charlie81980-Your grandfather sounds like a very GOOD man and I am betting that you are a good solid man yourself. Like you, I have been blessed to have some incredible influences in and upon my life. Most of them are gone now but I like to think that somewhere in some way they are still watching me. It helps me sometimes to do the next right thing and every now and then to make better decisions than I might without the love and respect I have for those who showed me the way. I hope there are people in your life who are just coming up and can benefit from your examples and experiences.

    • @johnslaughter3806
      @johnslaughter3806 10 месяцев назад +1

      God bless Grandpa

  • @donnharris3223
    @donnharris3223 Год назад +40

    One of the great, beautiful desperado ballads of all time. From the tears he sheds for his mother in the opening stanza to the tragic ending, 'now he's growing old'-- it's a moving portrait, a metaphor for all of our lives, sung by two who have lived it.

    • @alanmcneill2407
      @alanmcneill2407 7 месяцев назад

      Very, very well said. I hope you write other things.

  • @Clothahump1
    @Clothahump1 3 месяца назад +1

    Most folks may not know this. At 1:00, the man in the close-up is Townes Van Zandt, who wrote this song. He appears in a couple of other shots, and is the guy playing the guitar at the end.

  • @KyleStansfeld-zi6gc
    @KyleStansfeld-zi6gc 5 месяцев назад +13

    This is an amazing song written by Townes Van Zandtz. Perfected by Willie and Merle. Love the part where Merle comes in. He was such an exceptional singer and musician. Such a rich voice.

  • @Flashback50s
    @Flashback50s 4 года назад +205

    It is great to see Townes Van Zandt in several of the scenes as a different person each time.

    • @luketdrifter2100
      @luketdrifter2100 4 года назад +6

      First time I noticed him in the video. Agreed, very great to see

    • @papajohnloki
      @papajohnloki 4 года назад +3

      @@luketdrifter2100 yeah

    • @bigsky1970
      @bigsky1970 4 года назад +6

      Yep, he wrote this song.

  • @steveschecter3710
    @steveschecter3710 Год назад +75

    I told my daughter that this is the last song I wish to hear at my funeral. If she messes it up, I'll haunt her for life.

    • @escaped1534
      @escaped1534 6 месяцев назад +3

      ... escaped a few Federales (like me, see name!), huh?!

    • @zeekettete
      @zeekettete 6 месяцев назад +5

      She'll never be able to listen to it without crying after that.. lost my sister in 2015, she died in Ohio due to a car wreck but we are born and raised in West Virginia and the last song that they played at her funeral was John Denver ~ Country Roads Take Me Home. It's burned into my memory thinking about that song and looking at the back of the hearse on the way to her grave site 😢 still can't listen to it without crying.

    • @poundsofpressurebmx5019
      @poundsofpressurebmx5019 6 месяцев назад +2

      Out of kindness suppose .❤

    • @Rockyson065
      @Rockyson065 4 месяца назад +4

      ​@@zeeketteteJohn Denver songs hols a special place in my heart as well. My sister and I rode our horses and sing together. Julie passed away in 2000 of brain tumor. I am 59 left with beautiful memories. Hello from Washington state.

    • @iggykarpov
      @iggykarpov 3 месяца назад

      ​@@Rockyson065God bless!

  • @Denise-jw6mb
    @Denise-jw6mb 27 дней назад +1

    One of my favorite songs....Willie and Mr. Haggard....when Music was Music....and you sat and listened to every word....and looked off in the distance....and imagined .....you were there....Indeed.

  • @lisanowlin6123
    @lisanowlin6123 2 года назад +217

    Lord I love this song so much. Listening to the guitar twang and Willie's voice, Merle's too, brings tears to my eyes every time I hear it.

    • @bryonmollica
      @bryonmollica 2 года назад +4

      I'm crying now

    • @robertpuckett4346
      @robertpuckett4346 Год назад +6

      Same here. My dad used to play it for me and say "this song reminds me of us"
      One day I'll figure out what he meant.
      Rest easy pops till we meet again. Jim "IceMan" Puckett 1954-2020

    • @nickdarling9666
      @nickdarling9666 Год назад +1

      @@robertpuckett4346who are you?

    • @robertpuckett4346
      @robertpuckett4346 Год назад +2

      @@nickdarling9666 son of a motorcycle enthusiast and Harley rider, "The Iceman"

    • @superpoacher6711
      @superpoacher6711 Год назад

      I don't even know why I'm crying😂😂😂

  • @delldunn7590
    @delldunn7590 8 месяцев назад +47

    They should have made a western movie out of this when the song was popular

  • @bryanlilly8876
    @bryanlilly8876 Год назад +41

    This video just takes you somewhere. Willie, And Merle. I love Willie, But when Merle kicks in, It gives me goose bumps. 🙂

    • @drakehonest2
      @drakehonest2 Год назад

      Hello how are you doing today?

    • @maxxxy79
      @maxxxy79 10 месяцев назад +1

      These two are at a minimum show what real country music is… the musics now a days isn’t rea country

  • @swiftmatic
    @swiftmatic 2 дня назад +1

    Now, THAT'S real Country ❤

  • @Insignificatos
    @Insignificatos 3 года назад +12

    God this is Beautiful. Special, beyond special. Meaningful, beyond meaningful. Townes you found it.

  • @davidgorka4315
    @davidgorka4315 5 лет назад +2219

    Anyone else get chills down their spine when Mearle starts singing halfway through?

    • @bullferguson5668
      @bullferguson5668 5 лет назад +24

      I am poncho

    • @crunchie83
      @crunchie83 5 лет назад +108

      The story goes Merle had fallen asleep during the recording session for this song when Willie woke him up around 4:00 AM to give him his part. Merle thought they should wait until the next session to give him time to learn it, fully expecting to have to redo it later if they tried it now so late into the session. He thought the lyrics Willie brought him were "a half a mile long" and no way he could get it right that quickly. But Willie pressed on and got Merle to record it right then. That's the only take they did and that's Merle's part you hear in this song.

    • @yourfriendalejo
      @yourfriendalejo 5 лет назад +47

      Yep! Loved his voice after hearing his first line. I think that’s what a good country voice sounds like.

    • @caramelmonster4082
      @caramelmonster4082 5 лет назад +9

      💜

    • @yosofunnybunny4623
      @yosofunnybunny4623 5 лет назад +27

      Yes I'm just now becoming a merle fan

  • @jomorgannz
    @jomorgannz 2 года назад +13

    This song is an earworm for me at the moment

    • @Thc14Me
      @Thc14Me 2 года назад +1

      You are not alone.

    • @Thc14Me
      @Thc14Me 2 года назад

      And it's still there. At least I'll know the words if I ever try to sing this karaoke when drunk.......again.

  • @Morrisneuro83
    @Morrisneuro83 10 месяцев назад +6

    Merle made this song….epic and the best ever! We love you Merle

  • @bobs58cruiser
    @bobs58cruiser 5 месяцев назад +75

    Two of the greatest EVER

    • @tshafi5030
      @tshafi5030 4 месяца назад +1

      Oh yeah! Oh Hell yeah!!!

    • @strangelove47
      @strangelove47 4 месяца назад +2

      Three of the greatest ever.

  • @rayward3630
    @rayward3630 5 лет назад +12

    Probably my favorite Country singer. Merle Haggard had a unique voice that wasn't mistaken for anybody else. He was able to put words to music maybe better than anyone before and since him. Hell, I remember him from Hee Haw, when the family would all sit and watch on Saturday nights and I always tried to mimic his voice. I didn't always agree with his political views, but that isn't why I admired him. I admired him for what he could put into a song, his underrated ability on the guitar and what he brought to country music. I remember his impressions of Marty Robbins, Hank Snow and Johnny Cash. Nobody could do them better, not even them. He will be missed and nobody will ever replace him. I'm glad I lived in the era where I got to listen to and watch him.

  • @only_james
    @only_james 4 года назад +17

    I remember moving to Stockholm by myself at age 21 for my bachelor's degree. It was wintertime, and I often took walks in the dark evening in the woods and by the lake next to my apartment building. I always played this song, sang along softly as I walked the path and thought of my home and family in the Netherlands. Every time I play this song now that I am back in my country, I think of the beautiful time I had in Sweden. It brings tears to my eyes.

  • @dianefiske-foy4717
    @dianefiske-foy4717 Год назад +86

    There are only a few songs that give me goosebumps. This is one of them. Love the song and Willie and Merle 👏🏻❤️‼️

  • @betsyboneshaker2204
    @betsyboneshaker2204 2 года назад +181

    Oh my, they both sing like angels on this song. They really nailed it. Thank you, Townes.

    • @JamesSmith-wf1pd
      @JamesSmith-wf1pd 2 года назад

      I Guess you're a country MUSIC lover?

    • @jonsebastian4823
      @jonsebastian4823 2 года назад +5

      Hi Betsy, Willie and Merle do a great job on Pancho but I can't get enough of Emmylou's version kills me every time. Stay safe girl

    • @JamesSmith-wf1pd
      @JamesSmith-wf1pd 2 года назад

      @@jonsebastian4823 oh really?

    • @wickedvivid75
      @wickedvivid75 2 года назад +2

      Townes was beautiful and so are Haggard and Nelson.

    • @anelladambrosio2513
      @anelladambrosio2513 2 года назад

      @George Dave ciao George!come stai?🙋🥰😍😊😘

  • @machtschnell7452
    @machtschnell7452 2 года назад +22

    The cameos by Townes are a nice touch, but definitely listen to his solo version. Absolutely killer.

    • @0228christian
      @0228christian 2 года назад +3

      The original is the far superior version... which is really saying something when this version is so good.

  • @TheLotusWeAre
    @TheLotusWeAre 9 месяцев назад +1

    Reminds me of meeting my mom for the first time in '10, I was a young 43 old , whew knew I moved back to my dream in ... '12,bye '16 she passed from cancer , I lost nine family members , 2013-2020,lost my mind , I found God slowly putting myself back together ,living righteously with kindredship and compassion for others , I pray twice as much for the trespassers, and God is good to me

  • @dvrn86
    @dvrn86 Год назад +74

    Merle's voice is like pulling on a warm jacket on a cold day.

  • @AuntieMHere
    @AuntieMHere 3 года назад +18

    Holy Moley, I can't stay away from this song. So here goes another thought... I always thought that the introductory verse "Livin' on the road, my friend, was gonna keep you free and clean..." Was about Pancho. Now I think maybe it was Pancho singing to Lefty, and Lefty's hope of a new life. Maybe even Pancho's dying words. So cool to ponder what the poem could be... Buenas noches, amigos! :)

  • @Candoit2
    @Candoit2 4 года назад +12

    "Whose gonna fill their shoes"? Nobody, ever in this new generation...I'm 80 years old and been hearing these two for many many years. May you RIP Merle..... Gone but never forgotten 💔

    • @willielam2189
      @willielam2189 2 года назад +2

      Im 74 and you are absolutely right!

  • @mariegaunt1278
    @mariegaunt1278 8 месяцев назад +23

    My boyfriend at the time 7 years ago loved this song we still kept i touch and i lioked after him when he was dying he passes away last year love this dong so much xx

    • @JimmyRaeGarlandJimniRàeJ
      @JimmyRaeGarlandJimniRàeJ 6 месяцев назад +2

      I'm soo sorry for your loss, but as my grandmother always said..
      "Absent from the body is present with the lord."
      I've always loved and believed that notion . And I still do 💐🌹🪻🪷

    • @Eclectic999
      @Eclectic999 5 месяцев назад +1

      I’m sorry for your loss.

  • @tracyannhoward7557
    @tracyannhoward7557 2 года назад +38

    I lost my Dad last year, a few days after he had passed I had a dream about him. We were at a concert and this song was playing. He held my hand and smiled. My Dad was a huge country fan, this song means everything.

    • @tracyannhoward7557
      @tracyannhoward7557 2 года назад +1

      @Greg Normal yes, very much so.

    • @chrisdavis3652
      @chrisdavis3652 2 года назад

      🙏

    • @gabefields8012
      @gabefields8012 11 месяцев назад

      Sorry for your loss. I lost my dad in 2011 and I remember being 15 and listening to this song with him and loving it. At the time I was a metalhead BUT great music is great music, this is a masterpiece.

    • @javanautski
      @javanautski 6 месяцев назад +1

      😢 miss my dad too sometimes

    • @ricklong3260
      @ricklong3260 5 месяцев назад +1

      I lost my dad in 97' Miss him dearly.... your dad wanted you to know he was with you ❤

  • @shanewoods1980
    @shanewoods1980 4 года назад +210

    Who else rode with their dad, windows down dirt roads no destination, just Waylon, Willie, Hank jr, Johnny cash on the radio? Times I’d give my soul to go back to because I didn’t appreciate them as much as I do now

    • @themersh4064
      @themersh4064 4 года назад +8

      Shane, with me it was my 2 uncles in an old pick-up truck with the windows down and I could barely see over the dash up on my knees back in the 60's and early 70's. 3 on the tree and the world was my oyster...RIP Randy and Donny. You are missed. Thanks for the memories. Cheers!

    • @danhansen4855
      @danhansen4855 4 года назад +5

      Yep, me and my dad and his best friend out on gravel roads in the country in a 327 powered square body Chev. Throw in lots of George Jones too. Having to listen to the trash on today's country stations makes me really appreciate these classics.

    • @wallacesykes8130
      @wallacesykes8130 4 года назад +4

      I sure did I miss my dad& the good olday's

    • @duke6961
      @duke6961 4 года назад +8

      Miss those times as well. Dad loved the music and I grew up on it. Lost my Dad September 3rd 2020 and my oldest dog on September 2nd 2020. Been working the riots since May 2020 in Portland. It's been a shit year. Savor every moment. Appreciate the small things because they pass so quickly. God, watch over us.

    • @waynetincup5877
      @waynetincup5877 4 года назад +2

      And marty mostly. My dad's favorite. Mine too

  • @bradleymartin4896
    @bradleymartin4896 7 месяцев назад +17

    The cameos of Townes Van Zandt - as a bemused Federale, as a guy with a guitar in the restaurant - were a great addition. The man was a real poet, and this song is real poetry. Willie is Willie and could always spot something for the ages. Merle was for the ages, and it's interesting to watch him looking at the gravesite with something like regret, then coughing in Cleveland. Now, why anyone would flee to Cleveland is a different matter. Merle often ended up in places where he'd look around and wonder "what in the hell am I doing here?"

    • @jamesmarol2031
      @jamesmarol2031 6 месяцев назад +1

      Yeah he sure did, like San Quentin!

  • @Rockyson065
    @Rockyson065 4 месяца назад +1

    As kids my sister and i would ride our horese all day singing Willy Nelson and Meryl Haggard songs. Brings back beautiful memories. I am now 59 and my sis passed away back in 2000 at the age of 38. Happy trails, sis. Until were together again.

  • @TheSubygirl
    @TheSubygirl 3 года назад +121

    My dad in a nutshell. I miss you dad. I hope you're surrounded by your dogs and heaven has good fishing.

    • @jackmorgan5687
      @jackmorgan5687 3 года назад +1

      Hello,how are you doing?

    • @AP-nx6xo
      @AP-nx6xo 2 года назад +2

      👍🏻

    • @plarddaniel5137
      @plarddaniel5137 Год назад

      Les animaux sont interdits au ciel.

    • @ricklong3260
      @ricklong3260 8 месяцев назад +1

      I'm on my way I'll meet you at the old fishing hole. Rick

    • @deleriom
      @deleriom 5 месяцев назад +3

      Me too brother, I'm hoping for peace for you and your dad.

  • @stevenpdxedu
    @stevenpdxedu 3 года назад +31

    During the 1980's (my trucker years out of Pasadena Tx) Willie's music kept me going for untold miles and smiles. Always wanted to a have a few minutes chat with Willie . . . just because he seems like such a nice guy. Thanks for everything Merle and Willie, it's been a great ride.

    • @7layeroscillator807
      @7layeroscillator807 3 года назад +1

      pasa get down dena
      or in my neighborhood, stinkadena

    • @Karbide3084
      @Karbide3084 3 года назад +1

      @@7layeroscillator807 I can confirm both of these nicknames for Pasadena Tx 👍My birthplace. Parents learned to 2 step at Gilley's. Grew up over the ship channel in Cloverleaf.

    • @docasbroadway9049
      @docasbroadway9049 2 года назад

      it makes me remember alot

    • @jameshurst5378
      @jameshurst5378 2 года назад

      Hello Steven, how are you doing today it’s nice to meet you here 😊

  • @randomritchie
    @randomritchie 6 месяцев назад +80

    Debatably one of the most iconic songs of true country music.

  • @whowahska
    @whowahska Год назад +3

    Townes Van Zandt in a cameo? So cool. Merle has a uniquely deep and rich voice. Willie is the Pride and Joy of TX. Great songwriting Great singing.

    • @mickeyphillips6603
      @mickeyphillips6603 Год назад +1

      I’m glad that Townes appears in the video. It’s nice that he was included.

  • @bionicman6969
    @bionicman6969 3 года назад +15

    This reminds me of ole pap he could play all this stuff and bring a tear to your eye. Couldn't read a lick of music, one of those old timers that played by ear, God I miss you dad.

  • @brt-jn7kg
    @brt-jn7kg 5 лет назад +53

    Only two highwaymen left. I cannot begin to the you how much Willie will be missed here in Central Texas. He does a whole lot for a lot of people behind the scenes that nobody ever hears about. The man is a National Treasure

  • @Peanutgames2013
    @Peanutgames2013 5 месяцев назад +135

    Songs that tell an entire story, with the music video to provide the visual. Those days are long gone.

    • @arkynative667
      @arkynative667 4 месяца назад +1

      Sadly

    • @frankducett9
      @frankducett9 4 месяца назад +1

      No they aren't.

    • @Peanutgames2013
      @Peanutgames2013 4 месяца назад +2

      @@frankducett9 Well I don't see any videos with a story anymore, so if you do you are lucky

    • @tshafi5030
      @tshafi5030 4 месяца назад

      Best EVER!!!

    • @nathanreed9643
      @nathanreed9643 4 месяца назад +1

      Sad but true my friend and they are not coming back sadly 😢

  • @veritas41photo
    @veritas41photo 5 месяцев назад +1

    Willie sings it so well... Heartbreaking! I tear up every time. "They only let him slip away... Out of kindness I suppose."

    • @damienneems4925
      @damienneems4925 4 месяца назад

      Out of kind the size of gold it's when he stopped paying they finally got him

  • @mmchenry
    @mmchenry 5 лет назад +15

    Love the fact that Townes allowed himself to be in the video , This is truly the best version with Willie and Merle . Just hoping Townes was happy with it all .

  • @kimwilson4140
    @kimwilson4140 4 года назад +1536

    For those who may not know, Townes Van Zandt wrote this song, and you see him throughout this video. ( in the last scene, he’s the man wearing a yellow shirt and playing a guitar). Why this is on a page for Merle is puzzling, since he sang only one verse out of the entire song. Van Zandt was considered to be the best song writer in Texas at the time. The song is about Poncho Villa, and it is said he had a friend whose name translated into Lefty. Van Zandt considered this song to be his most enduring and well known song. It’s been recorded by several artists, but the Willie Nelson/Merle Haggard version is the most well known and hit the top of the charts. It’s a great song I hope those new to country music will take note of. It’s classic in many ways.

    • @laykaljos
      @laykaljos 4 года назад +92

      It’s likely on Merles page because he is/was a country music legend and he did in fact sing on this song. Townes Van Zandt got all the credit due him with the writing credits and very hefty royalty checks. Taking nothing away from any of the three music legends, but all 3 deserve credit and accolades.

    • @harrya9479
      @harrya9479 4 года назад +47

      Actually Townes said, "I didn't write this song." He said it came through him, and he tried for years to find out what it was about.

    • @jimsimonitch7614
      @jimsimonitch7614 4 года назад +11

      Only ‘Q’ can answer

    • @jimmysteinbeck3391
      @jimmysteinbeck3391 4 года назад +4

      yeah I love how it just goes without being acknowledged

    • @_TheMikeSmith
      @_TheMikeSmith 3 года назад +16

      Not the only Great Van Zandt song to be performed by someone else and they linked to that artist instead of him, I call it Nashville disease because tons of great songwriters come up with classics that are wrote for big name artists, of course in Country Music, its just known as Tuesday.

  • @DavidB45Mustard
    @DavidB45Mustard 5 лет назад +24

    Brilliant song written by Townes Van Zandt. One song that I will never get tired of listening to. No matter what version. Merle & Willie, Emmylou Harris, Hoyt Axton or Townes himself of course.

  • @rperez2608
    @rperez2608 Год назад +17

    This is one of my favorite songs ever and when Merle sings it is the sound of an angel singing. I wish his voice were in the song even more. It's just a fabulous song.

  • @justdynee
    @justdynee 3 года назад +26

    This gets better as the decades march inexorably forward. A classic by one of the men in the video, the legendary Townes Van Zandt. Is the haunting melancholy getting more haunting ? I'm just imagining things as I get older, maybe.

  • @cinnamongirl7877
    @cinnamongirl7877 4 года назад +5857

    This kind of music has saved me during this pandemic. Whoever reads this.....I hope you are safe and well. This too shall pass.

    • @wbrobinson1
      @wbrobinson1 4 года назад +106

      I'm here brother. Semper Fi!

    • @citytaxi1082
      @citytaxi1082 4 года назад +25

      👍👍👍👍

    • @calvinsharp3346
      @calvinsharp3346 4 года назад +15

      @@wbrobinson1 wp

    • @stanleyweingart6361
      @stanleyweingart6361 4 года назад +73

      And I advere to this day; The best song ever written. Thank you,
      Towns van Zant for sharing your genius.

    • @stanleyweingart6361
      @stanleyweingart6361 4 года назад +13

      @@wbrobinson1 I got your back, devil!

  • @AntoineMaloney
    @AntoineMaloney 2 года назад +57

    Someone's already pointed out that much tribute must go to Townes Van Zandt who wrote this great song - and I've never heard a bad version of it; this is a great one with these two, and great also to see Van Zandt appearing among the Federalés, and playing guitar in the café at the end.

    • @terryallard1918
      @terryallard1918 2 года назад +7

      Townes was another great gone much too soon.

  • @karenbertin1854
    @karenbertin1854 4 месяца назад +3

    we are from Canada, but my son loves cowboys. He loves animals. Anyway, he found this song on one of his games. I told him I loved it too. He loves the game with the old wild west and the horses. Thank you for bringing him back to nature. ps. love your music and all the old greats. I am old but was glad to see Clint Easteads name in the game too.

    • @ClaireGrimes_11
      @ClaireGrimes_11 3 месяца назад

      Thank you for being an amazing fan
      I decided to take out some free time and put smiles on the faces of my fans by going through and checking out on my fans, showing love and appreciation and also get to communicate with my fans better through discussions hence my private chat account.

  • @darkeagle5836
    @darkeagle5836 4 года назад +2209

    The legends are dying off and their sure as hell not being replaced.

    • @jeslerish
      @jeslerish 4 года назад +10

      Check out hellbound glory..

    • @BIGBLOCK5022006
      @BIGBLOCK5022006 4 года назад +50

      Unfortunately Charley Pride has gone to the other side today.

    • @rogermullen6825
      @rogermullen6825 4 года назад +18

      so true

    • @jonahmenikoff1997
      @jonahmenikoff1997 4 года назад +61

      sturgill simpson, tyler childers, colter wall, jason isbell are doing their best!

    • @darkeagle5836
      @darkeagle5836 4 года назад +83

      @@jonahmenikoff1997 In my opinion, they do not replace Merle Haggard, Johnny Cash, George Jones, Waylon Jennings etc...

  • @m.r.jarrell3725
    @m.r.jarrell3725 3 года назад +10

    Both Merle and Willie are my favourites, but this song by them cemented Townes Van Zandt legend as a songwriter. I never tire of this one!

    • @m.r.jarrell3725
      @m.r.jarrell3725 2 года назад +2

      @Jeff Yoder Willie didn't write Panch and Lefty. Townes Van Zant wrote it.

  • @williamthomas7534
    @williamthomas7534 3 года назад +47

    This song has always been one of my favorites. I absolutely LOVE the fact that Townes Van Zandt is in the video. First he was a Federale then the guitar player in the cafe. Well done. I also heard that Willie’s daughter produced it.

    • @thatkidthatkid2075
      @thatkidthatkid2075 2 года назад

      Beautiful I love this well done ❤

    • @mlafeverphd
      @mlafeverphd 2 года назад +1

      Right on about Townes Van Zandt - had to do a double take the first time I saw it.

  • @BobbyGarcia-ov2zt
    @BobbyGarcia-ov2zt 8 месяцев назад +3

    Merle, willy, Waylon Jennings, George jones, a few of the many singers that made country what it is today

  • @themotofixery
    @themotofixery Год назад +16

    This song reminds me of my dear father. I can remember him rocking me to sleep as a small child to this song. He just passed in 2020 from covid at the age of 84. He was the most honest, dignified man I've ever known and this song makes me feel like he's still here with me.

  • @lgr8280
    @lgr8280 4 года назад +1583

    Honestly, how many times can one listen to this masterpiece and not get tired of it? Still counting.........

  • @alvinwoods639
    @alvinwoods639 2 года назад +32

    There will never be Country music this good again.. All the Great ones have passed on or will soon be there. Damn I miss those good days of Country..

    • @williameidson7289
      @williameidson7289 2 месяца назад +1

      oh yes grew up in nashville in the 40's

    • @chrissummers6545
      @chrissummers6545 Месяц назад

      What was that like? Very interesting ❤​@@williameidson7289

  • @CowGirlKat8691
    @CowGirlKat8691 Год назад +1

    Written by Townes Van Zant a great story teller! Townes is the man with the guitar singing this song!

  • @crabsackmccringle1687
    @crabsackmccringle1687 4 года назад +12

    Merle Haggard’s voice in this song is as smooth as I’ve ever heard. Pure beauty

  • @johnnybobblalock6729
    @johnnybobblalock6729 Год назад +23

    Spring 1983. I was a student at Texas A&M. Took my girlfriend at the time to a movie. This was before CMT and Nashville Network was not playing videos. The theatre played this before the movie began. I was blown away. Don't even remember what the feature was, but I wanted to see Pancho and Lefty again.

  • @oigloriousoi
    @oigloriousoi 5 лет назад +15

    It really is something special when Merle's part comes in. After a few versus of Willie being ahead of the beat and his high pitched voice, Merle comes in and it's like a warm drink of tea and honey......hard to explain but it is almost a relief

    • @lokithejokester599
      @lokithejokester599 5 лет назад +3

      Funny Merle was so drunk he had to be woke up to sing his part and didn't even remember doing it the next day. Love Merle but without Willie this song would not have been made.

    • @betsyboneshaker2204
      @betsyboneshaker2204 Год назад

      Willie's voice is his guitar, and his guitar is his voice. I think his vocal style is gentle, endearing, and always souful!

  • @alightthatnevergoesout
    @alightthatnevergoesout Год назад +1

    Has there even been a greater artist at harmonising with another singer than Willie? Merle, Waylon, Cash, Kristofferson, Strait, Ray Charles, Dolly Parton, his son Lukas, even Snoop Dogg! He sounds amazing with everyone. Give him his flowers whilst he’s still here.

  • @amyjo6153
    @amyjo6153 2 года назад +21

    My mom loved this song. RIP Dolores, cheers to you! xoxo

  • @staylofordo7111
    @staylofordo7111 Год назад +22

    Nobody, nobody, could put the feel of country western music like Willie and Merle . I like Townes special way of picking this song and it’s beautiful too. Willie and Merle beat everyone. I have my version. But I can’t come close to any of these three. Thank you for the awesome video!

  • @rustyjrust873
    @rustyjrust873 4 года назад +15

    18 wheels, good music, and a good road; that's all I ever asked for. The simple life. I was blessed 44 years. Amen.

  • @bradyray4063
    @bradyray4063 Год назад +62

    This is my all time favorite song. I’ve often told my family that I want it played at my funeral.

  • @simonseymour8879
    @simonseymour8879 2 года назад +12

    I've loved this song since childhood, now I'm 39 and still can't get enough of it. It was on a duet compilation album called half nelson and it's the first song on the album. My nana bought it on cassette tape and 6 year old me kept taking a loan of it. I'm pleased to own the fab album on vinyl and cd now 😎

  • @raymondclifton1238
    @raymondclifton1238 2 года назад +51

    Possibly one of the best songs of all time. Lyrics, vocals, and producing, spot on!

  • @MomDeb
    @MomDeb Год назад +2

    Oh my gosh! I can’t believe i just now caught Townes van Zandt and others from his troupe in this video. Been one of my favorites for years. Just shows me what I miss when not really paying attention! Now I love it even more.

  • @annabanana7084
    @annabanana7084 2 года назад +69

    This song reminds me of my mom. She passed two years ago from a brain tumor and I was her nurse. When she passed I got her dressed for the funeral home to come take her....this and Seven Spanish Angels was her favorite. I will always cherish that time I had with her in the quiet just listening to her favorite songs.

    • @steveflowers01
      @steveflowers01 Год назад +4

      You're a good girl honey. I wish to hold you and pull your hurt away. Music is much more than silly entertainment. Its a thread to our souls.

    • @EddyArnold-xl7rn
      @EddyArnold-xl7rn Год назад

      Thanks 😊 so much for the love and support you have showed me for years now…Are you one of my great fans out there ?
      So sorry about that 😢

    • @debramardrus9251
      @debramardrus9251 Год назад

      I can relate o had the same thing happen to my mom. And I was her nurse and I miss her everyday. It hurts as my son took his life my first born. I have no family near me bit I do have 3 other children that kept me alive during my sorrow that I do feel everyday. Hes with the lord and that's my only comfort. Country music us my grounding place and I saw the highwaymen at the Coliseum and it was the best concert I've ever seen. I hold on to their music as I adore them all. Miss Johnny and meredith and keep listening everyday to them . The best... 🤩❤😇

    • @debramardrus9251
      @debramardrus9251 Год назад

      I suffered the same fate of my mom with a brain tumor and she was such an incredible woman. I also took care of her through the years I she was I'll. My son also committed suicide and he was my first born. Point being is my other 3 children needed me and I am only comforted in knowing hes with the lord at peace. I saw the highwaymen in concert and must say it was the best concert I've ever been to. I play their music everyday and all if their music as separate artist's. Cant go a day without my country music. They call me a redneck and I sat thank you very much. May all of their fans keep them alive in their incredible music I play each day. Live the artists together and separate. Great music to keep me grounded in my life.

    • @lesleyowen7654
      @lesleyowen7654 Год назад

      @@EddyArnold-xl7rn for all your music we love you but also for your horse rescues and pure soul
      God bless you Willie ❤

  • @jamesbaggett7223
    @jamesbaggett7223 4 года назад +46

    That mournful tone in Willie's voice always gives me chills

  • @infoscholar5221
    @infoscholar5221 2 года назад +32

    I'm an old head banger/punk rocker, later turned Academician. But I think this is one of the greatest music videos ever made. Masterpiece. Thank you, Townes. 4:08 That's Townes.

    • @easygoing2479
      @easygoing2479 Год назад +1

      I agree 100% with you; not only is the music amazing, but the video itself is a gold-star winner. Every bit of it flows so well with the lyrics. When compared to most videos, this one seems _Kubrick-esque._ The fact that Townes Van Zandt makes not a token cameo appearance, but is featured repeatedly in the backstory is wonderful.

  • @azhunt0996
    @azhunt0996 2 месяца назад

    Reminds me of my grandpa. Heard this song in his truck one day going to work with him. Old farm boy from Oklahoma. He stood for America and a Patriot. I'll always love this one.

  • @kenknight4560
    @kenknight4560 Месяц назад +19

    Say a prayer for Lefty... RIP Merle.

  • @nicolem2113
    @nicolem2113 3 года назад +12

    This song reminds me of my dad and his older brother who died young. Brothers, heartaches, life, loyalty, hearts tuned numb with age leaving one behind, a life robbed and missed. It brings me to tears every time. We don't forget you Uncle Pat♡