Jerry Jeff Walker, ‘Desperados Waiting for a Train’

About The Song

“Desperados Waiting for a Train” is a song written by Guy Clark and originally recorded by Jerry Jeff Walker for his 1973 album Viva Terlingua. The song has since been covered by many other artists, including Bob Dylan, The Highwaymen, and Nanci Griffith.

The song is a narrative about a group of outlaws who are on the run from the law. They are tired, hungry, and desperate, and they are waiting for a train that will take them to Mexico. The song is full of vivid imagery and symbolism, and it paints a stark picture of the outlaw life.

The song’s lyrics are simple but effective. They tell the story of the outlaws’ journey in a straightforward way, and they capture the sense of desperation and hopelessness that the outlaws are feeling. The song’s melody is also simple, but it is haunting and memorable.

Jerry Jeff Walker was a singer-songwriter who was known for his outlaw country music. He was a major figure in the Texas country music scene, and he helped to popularize the outlaw country genre. Walker’s music was often characterized by its rebellious spirit and its honest lyrics.

“Desperados Waiting for a Train” is one of Jerry Jeff Walker’s most famous songs. It is a classic outlaw country song that has been covered by many other artists. The song is a powerful and moving ballad about the outlaw life, and it is a testament to Jerry Jeff Walker’s songwriting skills.

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