Introduction
“The Last Cowboy Song,” performed live by The Highwaymen at Nassau Coliseum in 1990, stands as a poignant tribute to the fading legacy of the American cowboy. Originally penned by Ed Bruce and Ron Peterson, the song was first recorded by Bruce in 1980, reaching No. 12 on the Billboard country chart. It was later reinterpreted by The Highwaymen—Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, Johnny Cash, and Kris Kristofferson—on their 1985 debut album, Highwayman .
The song delves into the transformation of the American West, reflecting on how modernization has overshadowed the once-vibrant cowboy culture. Through evocative lyrics, it references historical figures like Lewis and Clark, Wyatt Earp, and the 7th Cavalry, juxtaposing their legendary exploits with the contemporary reality of cowboys working in feedlots and markets . The chorus laments this shift: “This is the last cowboy song / The end of a hundred-year waltz / The voices sound sad as they’re singing along / Another piece of America’s lost” .
In their live performance, each member of The Highwaymen brings a unique vocal interpretation to the song. Nelson’s plaintive tone, Jennings’ gritty delivery, Kristofferson’s reflective voice, and Cash’s resonant spoken-word verse collectively underscore the song’s themes of loss and nostalgia . The arrangement is understated, featuring acoustic guitars and subtle instrumentation that allow the storytelling to take center stage.
“The Last Cowboy Song” serves not only as an elegy for a bygone era but also as a commentary on the broader cultural shifts in America. It invites listeners to reflect on the values and lifestyles that have been eclipsed by progress, preserving the memory of the cowboy as a symbol of resilience and independence.