About The Song
The Highwaymen and their rendition of “The Devil’s Right Hand”. Now, that’s a tune that resonates with a certain gravitas, doesn’t it? For those of us who’ve seen a few sunsets and appreciate a story well-told through song, this isn’t just another country track; it’s a narrative steeped in the complexities of human nature, delivered by a quartet of legends whose voices alone carry the weight of experience.
When you hear the name The Highwaymen, you’re immediately conjuring images of Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Kris Kristofferson, and Waylon Jennings – a Mount Rushmore of outlaw country, each a titan in his own right. Their collaboration was more than just a supergroup; it was a meeting of kindred spirits, artists who carved their own paths with a blend of rugged individualism and poetic sensibility. To hear them come together on a song like “The Devil’s Right Hand” is to witness a unique alchemy, where their distinct styles and iconic voices intertwine to create something truly special.
The song itself, penned by the masterful Steve Earle, is a stark and poignant tale. It’s not a celebratory anthem of rebellion, but rather a cautionary reflection on the consequences of violence and the seductive allure of power. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a young man, Billy, whose life takes a dark turn when he’s given a gun – the titular “devil’s right hand.” Earle’s songwriting is characteristically insightful, exploring the ripple effects of this single act, not just on Billy but on those around him. It’s a narrative that lingers, prompting contemplation on the choices we make and the paths we tread.
What makes The Highwaymen’s interpretation so compelling is the lived-in quality they bring to the story. Each member imbues the lyrics with a sense of understanding, perhaps drawing on their own experiences navigating the often-turbulent waters of life and fame. You can almost hear the wisdom and weariness in their voices as they recount Billy’s tragic trajectory. Cash’s deep baritone lends a somber authority, Nelson’s laid-back delivery adds a touch of world-weary observation, Kristofferson’s gravelly tone hints at the underlying pain, and Jennings’ distinctive voice provides a rugged authenticity.
The arrangement of “The Devil’s Right Hand” by The Highwaymen is also noteworthy. It’s uncluttered and direct, allowing the power of the narrative and the strength of their vocals to take center stage. The instrumentation, typically featuring acoustic guitars, harmonica, and understated percussion, creates a soundscape that feels both intimate and expansive. It’s the kind of arrangement that doesn’t distract from the story but rather enhances its emotional impact.
For listeners who appreciate music with substance, music that delves into the complexities of the human condition, “The Devil’s Right Hand” by The Highwaymen is a must-listen. It’s a reminder that country music, at its core, is often about storytelling, about holding a mirror up to society and exploring the triumphs and tragedies that shape our lives. This particular rendition, with the combined power of these four legendary artists, elevates the song to an almost mythical status. It’s a testament to their enduring artistry and a poignant reflection on the enduring themes of temptation, consequence, and the heavy burden of wielding power. It’s a song that stays with you long after the final notes fade, prompting reflection on the choices we make and the paths we choose to follow. The legacy of The Highwaymen is firmly cemented, and “The Devil’s Right Hand” stands as a powerful testament to their collective genius.
Video
Lyric
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
About the time, my daddy left to fight the big warI saw my first pistol in the general storeThe general store, when I was 13Thought it was the finest thing I ever had seenI asked if I could have one some day when I grew upMama dropped a dozen eggs, she really blew upShe really blew up, and I didn’t understandMama said, “The pistol is the devil’s right hand”The devil’s right hand, the devil’s right handMama said, “The pistol is the devil’s right hand”My very first pistol was a cap and ball ColtShoots like lightnin’ but it loads a mite slowIt loads a mite slow, and I soon found outIt can get you into trouble, but it can’t get you outSo then I went and bought myself a Colt 45Called a peacemaker, but I never knew whyI never knew why, I didn’t understandMama said, “The pistol is the devil’s right hand”The devil’s right hand, the devil’s right handMama said, “The pistol is the devil’s right handThe devil’s right hand, the devil’s right handMama said, “The pistol is the devil’s right hand”I got into a card game in a Cumberland townI caught a miner cheating, and I shot the dog downI shot the dog down, I watched the man fallHe never touched his holster, never had a chance to drawThe trial was in the morning, and they dragged me out of bedAsked me how I pleaded, “Not guilty”, I said“Not guilty”, I said, “You’ve got the wrong man”Nothing touched the trigger, but the devil’s right handThe devil’s right hand, the devil’s right handNothing touched the trigger, but the devil’s right handThe devil’s right hand, the devil’s right handNothing touched the trigger, but the devil’s right handMama said, “The pistol is the devil’s right hand”