Unveiling Marty Robbins’ Legendary “Big Iron”
Ever wandered through the dusty trails of classic country music, seeking a tune that encapsulates the essence of the wild west? Look no further, as we delve into the timeless masterpiece of Marty Robbins – “Big Iron.”
Unraveling the Melody
Recorded on April 7, 1959 and released on February 22, 1960, “Big Iron” is a legendary ballad penned by Marty Robbins himself. Produced by Don Law, it found its home in Robbins’ album “Gunfighter Ballads and Trail Songs,” released in September 1959. This iconic track swiftly ascended the charts, securing the number 5 spot on the Billboard Hot Country Singles and number 26 on US Billboard Hot 100, also Members of the Western Writers of America chose it as one of the Top 100 Western songs of all time.
The Heart of the Song
“Big Iron” narrates the tale of a mysterious stranger, the Arizona Ranger, on a quest to apprehend the notorious outlaw Texas Red. Set against the backdrop of the Arizona desert, the song paints a vivid picture of a high-noon showdown, where justice and fate collide.
The Man Behind the Mic
Marty Robbins, hailed as one of country music’s finest storytellers, boasted numerous chart-toppers throughout his career. With over 16 number one hits and a Grammy Award to his name, Robbins’ musical prowess transcended generations.
Decades after its release, “Big Iron” continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, showcasing the timeless allure of storytelling in country music. Its narrative depth and evocative melodies ensure its place in the annals of musical history.
In conclusion, Marty Robbins’ “Big Iron” stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of country music. Its captivating tale and soul-stirring melodies solidify its position as a cornerstone of the genre, captivating listeners with each strum of the guitar.
COUNTRYPEDIA
Marty Robbins – Big Iron Lyrics
To the town of Agua Fria rode a stranger one fine day
Hardly spoke to folks around him didn’t have too much to say
No one dared to ask his business no one dared to make a slip
For the stranger there among them had a big iron on his hip
Big iron on his hip
It was early in the morning when he rode into the town
He came riding from the south side slowly lookin’ all around
He’s an outlaw loose and running came the whisper from each lip
And he’s here to do some business with the big iron on his hip
Big iron on his hip
In this town there lived an outlaw by the name of Texas Red
Many men had tried to take him and that many men were dead
He was vicious and a killer though a youth of twenty four
And the notches on his pistol numbered one and nineteen more
One and nineteen more
Now the stranger started talking made it plain to folks around
Was an Arizona ranger wouldn’t be too long in town
He came here to take an outlaw back alive or maybe dead
And he said it didn’t matter he was after Texas Red
After Texas Red
Wasn’t long before the story was relayed to Texas Red
But the outlaw didn’t worry men that tried before were dead
Twenty men had tried to take him twenty men had made a slip
Twenty one would be the ranger with the big iron on his hip
Big iron on his hip
The morning passed so quickly it was time for them to meet
It was twenty past eleven when they walked out in the street
Folks were watching from the windows every-body held their breath
They knew this handsome ranger was about to meet his death
About to meet his death
There was forty feet between them when they stopped to make their play
And the swiftness of the ranger is still talked about today
Texas Red had not cleared leather fore a bullet fairly ripped
And the ranger’s aim was deadly with the big iron on his hip
Big iron on his hip
It was over in a moment and the folks had gathered round
There before them lay the body of the outlaw on the ground
Oh he might have went on living but he made one fatal slip
When he tried to match the ranger with the big iron on his hip
Big iron on his hip
Big iron Big iron
When he tried to match the ranger with the big iron on his hip
Big iron on his hip
GENIUS
