The Highwaymen – Trouble Man

About The Song

The Highwaymen tackling “Trouble Man”. Now, there’s a song that feels particularly suited to the collective persona of Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Kris Kristofferson, and Waylon Jennings, wouldn’t you agree? For those of us who’ve followed their individual journeys and appreciated their rebellious spirits, this track resonates deeply with the outlaw image they so often embodied. It’s a song that seems to speak directly to the heart of what The Highwaymen represented: a band of seasoned individuals who lived life on their own terms.

When you hear the title “Trouble Man,” it immediately evokes a certain kind of character – someone who’s seen a bit of the rough and tumble, who might have a checkered past but also possesses a certain undeniable charm and resilience. This song, written by the immensely talented Jerry Reed, fits that description perfectly, and The Highwaymen deliver it with a knowing wink and a world-weary understanding that only they could truly convey.

Their rendition of “Trouble Man” isn’t just a performance; it’s an affirmation of their shared identity as outsiders, as artists who weren’t afraid to walk a different path. Each of their voices, so distinct and yet so complementary, adds a layer of authenticity to the narrative. You can almost imagine them sitting around a campfire, each taking a turn to recount their own brushes with trouble, their own experiences of navigating the complexities of life and fame.

Cash’s deep baritone lends a gravitas to the idea of being a “Trouble Man,” suggesting a weight of experience and perhaps a hint of regret mixed with defiance. Nelson’s laid-back delivery adds a touch of philosophical acceptance, as if trouble is just another part of the journey. Kristofferson’s slightly raspy voice brings a raw honesty, hinting at the personal struggles that might lead someone to be labeled a “Trouble Man.” And Jennings’ signature twang injects that unmistakable outlaw swagger, the sense of someone who’s never quite fit the mold and doesn’t intend to start now.

The lyrics of “Trouble Man” are straightforward yet evocative. They paint a picture of a man who’s been through the wringer, who might have caused a bit of chaos along the way, but who ultimately possesses a good heart. It’s a celebration of the flawed individual, the one who doesn’t always play by the rules but who remains true to himself. In the context of The Highwaymen, these lyrics take on an added layer of meaning, reflecting their own rebellious streaks and their enduring appeal to those who appreciate authenticity and independence.

The musical arrangement of “Trouble Man” by The Highwaymen is typically uncluttered, allowing the focus to remain on the vocals and the storytelling. You might hear acoustic guitars, a subtle bassline, and perhaps some understated percussion, all working together to create a sound that feels both intimate and slightly rough around the edges – perfectly mirroring the subject matter of the song. The fiddle or harmonica might make an appearance, adding that classic country flavor that is so integral to The Highwaymen’s sound.

For those who appreciate music with a bit of grit and a whole lot of heart, “Trouble Man” by The Highwaymen is a quintessential track. It’s a celebration of the outsider, the individual who might not always be perfect but who possesses a certain undeniable charisma and resilience. It’s a song that feels lived-in, delivered by four men who certainly knew a thing or two about being “Trouble Men” themselves. It’s a testament to their enduring appeal and their ability to connect with listeners who appreciate honesty and authenticity in their music. This rendition of “Trouble Man” is more than just a song; it’s a statement of identity, a badge of honor worn by four legends who carved their own paths in the world of music.

Video

Lyric

🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤

I was so ugly the doctor slapped my momma when I was born
Then he took out his pocket knife and cut off my horns
He said: Lady if you ain’t already picked out a name
Go ahead on and call him Trouble Man

He’s gonna be wild
I’m giving you warning
He’s gotta have room
Keep an eye on him

I grew up with long and lean and hungry looks
I learned you can’t go nowhere when you go by the book
People all around me earthbound, I learned how to fly
Upside, downside, outside, sailing on by

Out of my reach
Out of my hands
Out of control
Trouble Man

I’ve been so far in all directions as you can get
I ain’t never had enough of anything yet
I have women that tore me apart without any reason
I say: Baby I don’t get mad I just get even

I don’t explain
If you don’t understand
I’m my own man
Trouble Man
Trouble Man