My grandfather was a troubled man. An orphan, an alcoholic and was severely abused as a child. He was really strong and very smart. He became very successful and had two beautiful daughters one of whom was my mother. When he got everything he ever wanted he destroyed because he was scared someone would take it all away. He drank himself into oblivion in a bar he had built in his house. My mother and her sister forbid us from seeing him but when I grew up I was really drawn to him. We had a great relationship and I helped mend the fences. We were all there at his deathbed. My mother cried like I've never seen before and he had a soldiers burial in Arlington. This was his favorite song. R.I.P. Granpa I hope you know everyone loved you.
Nah bro, if it's good the younger generations pick up on it. I dont know how old you are but I'm almost 50 and a die hard metal head 🤘🏻 I grew up with my older family members playing this kind of stuff and I was just to angsty and full of youthful defiance to listen to "old people music." Now that I've lived long enough to experience life I get this music. It takes a long time for an acorn to grow into a mighty oak. I still love my head banger stuff but Waylon Willie, Johnny and the rest are right there next to them in my playlists, keeping company with all the great classic rockers from the 60s and 70s. Cream rises to the top. Dont fret you're leaving it in good hands. Thank you for keeping it alive, we found it because of cats like you. Take that with you and leave the music so we can pay it forward.
Townes said that he really couldn't take credit for writing this song because it came to him like a thunderbolt. He said he felt like this song was just passing through him and all he did was write it down. Typical of the humble man he was.
I tell you only believing God healed you your family I'm David Austin Simmons gold Beach Oregon neskia by Ophir hardtack ridge Pima messiah hi grandson I declare God healed you your family I suppose
Willie, Merle, and Towns all in one video. Three of the worlds greatest singer songwriters ever in the same video. Don't get any better. Miss you Towns and Merle. Hang in there Willie.
Oh my god.. I am going to cry face off when will goes..all these country superstars. Nobody will ever be able to come even close. Their stellar and have left an infinity of perfect. Check me out@ caron macisaac(youtubevideo)
What the hell? Why is this song so soul ripping? There are only a few songs that last through multiple generations, yet still educe nape hair goosebumps. May God bless Townes, Nelson and Haggard. American icons.
I was grateful to see Haggard play in my home town for the first, and sadly the last time. It was weird. “I’ll see you next year!” he said, but he died the next year instead. It was a great night. Modern country fans who were probably wondering what the fuss about were cohabitating a space with old country lovers who probably watched all these old crooners in their primes. Ten gallon hats eveywhere, with farmers and country people in their best clothes and then dufusses like me that love metal and hardcore, but grew up with this music, all watching in a 100-year old theater. Heck of a night. This should be a country song itself.
My dad loved this song also. He passed away in 2011. I first heard this one when I was 15 with my dad, which was odd considering I was a metalhead. I moved 150 miles away from him when I turned 18 so I didn't see him nearly as often but in a sense he lives on in these songs. Sorry for your loss
My momma was born in 43, she had a vinyl record cover with Willie in a suit and clean cut, I was born in 1980, she loved her some Willie clean and long haired ❤
Recently I sang this a Capella for the folks in the assisted living facility where I live myself. No one had ever heard of it before. I won our talent show as a result. Until this time no-one there knew I could sing! I made a few new Willy and Merle fans out of them😊
Finally someone who agrees with me. Modern country is trash but old country is amazing. A lot of people say they hate all country but old country is art. This is coming from a big rap fan, I genuinely love country
Townes Van Zandt wrote this incredible song and we should all be thankful that these two legends covered it so masterfully. Nice to see Townes get to be in the video.
Townes has gotten more appreciation over the years, but I think he's still massively underrated when you put him up against the famous country artists.
A classic! I am 64. When this came out I was way younger and not thinking of getting old. Life goes by so quickly and songs like this make me wish I was young again and could relive it all again. Don’t know why.
I turn 70 tomorrow and this song makes me realize I have wasted my life away, wish I could change my past, and sad that it's gonna be over soon. Peace and love is what it's all about y'all...
One of the great, beautiful desperado ballads of all time. From the tears he sheds for his mother in the opening stanza to the tragic ending, 'now he's growing old'-- it's a moving portrait, a metaphor for all of our lives, sung by two who have lived it.
@@BMauneyGearmaker in all honesty, I didn’t know until it was pointed out to me on another TH-cam page that plays the video. Might have been this one if you scroll far enough.
I'm from Austin and I've seen Willie a few times in my 50yrs. I was lucky my friend Gabriel Roads mom sang backup for Willie. I met Willie at that Christmas party. He was a kind gentleman. We even shared a bowl lol. Such a great memory.
The story goes Merle had fallen asleep during the recording session for this song when Willie woke him up around 4:00 AM to give him his part. Merle thought they should wait until the next session to give him time to learn it, fully expecting to have to redo it later if they tried it now so late into the session. He thought the lyrics Willie brought him were "a half a mile long" and no way he could get it right that quickly. But Willie pressed on and got Merle to record it right then. That's the only take they did and that's Merle's part you hear in this song.
I love Willie’s voice ….but when Merle’s voice comes in, my heart rises. I had the pleasure to see Merle in concert in Marietta, Georgia before he died. Checked a bucket-list box.
I got to see him in Branson, Missouri. I'll never forgive myself for going to buy souvenirs at break and being outside of the room when he sang Silver Wings...my favorite song of his hands down. He was gone before I had a chance for redemption.
Good for you my young friend. I am 35. I been listening to him since I was a pup. I now hold willie has my higher power. All men should believe in willie.
Same here. My dad used to play it for me and say "this song reminds me of us" One day I'll figure out what he meant. Rest easy pops till we meet again. Jim "IceMan" Puckett 1954-2020
This is an amazing song written by Townes Van Zandtz. Perfected by Willie and Merle. Love the part where Merle comes in. He was such an exceptional singer and musician. Such a rich voice.
As an old-time Texas cattle rancher, I never was a metalhead . . . till I heard the folk rock/Hunnu rock/heavy metal Mongolian band: The HU. They've toured Texas twice now (2019 and 2021), and their heartfelt ballads, Metallica-approved covers, and straight-up rock hold my full attention. As for the Hag, his last performance was given just a few miles down the road from me, at the Nutty Brown Cafe in 2015. Forever memorable. RIP, Merle Haggard.
Metal head here : Listen to the (specific) Townes Van Zandt - Rear View Mirror (live album) track #1 to hear the Greatest version (just 2 guitars and a fiddle). Love this one though.
Reminds me of my grandpa. We would listen to this on cassette tape of Willie Nelson called ‘half Nelson’. A tape of songs that Willie did with other singers. I am almost 43. Grandpa passed away when I was 16 and I still miss him everyday. It is amazing how one person can have such an impact in this world. When grandpa passed I lost my fishing partner. I don’t go camping anymore. Haven’t been to Montana or go on summer trips much like we use to. However, it is also because of grandpa that I never tried alcohol or drugs. He had his sobriety at the three year mark when I was born and maintained that until he passed away. He was straight up with me and lead me down the correct path. Miss you grandpa.
Charlie81980-Your grandfather sounds like a very GOOD man and I am betting that you are a good solid man yourself. Like you, I have been blessed to have some incredible influences in and upon my life. Most of them are gone now but I like to think that somewhere in some way they are still watching me. It helps me sometimes to do the next right thing and every now and then to make better decisions than I might without the love and respect I have for those who showed me the way. I hope there are people in your life who are just coming up and can benefit from your examples and experiences just as you did with your grandfather. Thank you for sharing your story brother.
Charlie81980-Your grandfather sounds like a very GOOD man and I am betting that you are a good solid man yourself. Like you, I have been blessed to have some incredible influences in and upon my life. Most of them are gone now but I like to think that somewhere in some way they are still watching me. It helps me sometimes to do the next right thing and every now and then to make better decisions than I might without the love and respect I have for those who showed me the way. I hope there are people in your life who are just coming up and can benefit from your examples and experiences.
The song tells the story of two outlaw characters, Pancho and Lefty. Pancho is portrayed as a Mexican bandit, while Lefty is his American accomplice. The lyrics depict the betrayal of Pancho by Lefty, who turns him in for a reward. The song explores themes of friendship, betrayal, loyalty, and the harsh realities of life on the run.
People used to say the song was about Pancho Villa life story?.... There "Might" be some Similarities; Pancho Villa did have Americans fighting in his Army. He was betrayed by those who were close to him or (set-up in the ambush in Parral, Chihuahua México) My 2- grandfather's on both sides, lived in that part of Mexico, Durango where Pancho Villa was from and lived in his, hacienda during that time period. My Dad was 2- yrs. old when Pancho Villa was killed, and during the Mexican Revolution there was certainly lots of; killing, betrayals, friendship and loyalty around? It must have been Crazy Not Knowing Who to Trust or Not!!!
@@paulruiz4518the Mexican revolution was the real “Wild West” the u.s just copied the culture and made it into cowboy western movies. Anglos from Texas aren’t aware that they copied the cowboy culture from Mexican vaqueros/mexican cowboys. Anglos migrated to Texas,Mexico as pilgrims.
When you see Willie and Merle sitting at the table with the Townes the next table over, it zooms in close on willie and his head his looking in Townes direction singing to him.
We renovated a house back in 1999. Two Hispanics helped us out. Their names were Pancho and Juan; Juan was left handed and our 72 year old Master Carpenter delighted in calling them Pancho & Lefty.
My 2 yr old wants me to play this song for him before bed almost every night...he sings along. Music lovers young and old will continue appreciate these guys.
My 21 yr old GRANDSON Used to call it "NANA'S SONG!!".We played it over and over from Dallas to Oklahoma!! He would say, "PLAY NANA'S SONG!"HE STILL REMEMBERS IT AND ALWAYS WILL!! "SOOO ADORABLE!"
One of my favorite songs....Willie and Mr. Haggard....when Music was Music....and you sat and listened to every word....and looked off in the distance....and imagined .....you were there....Indeed.
She'll never be able to listen to it without crying after that.. lost my sister in 2015, she died in Ohio due to a car wreck but we are born and raised in West Virginia and the last song that they played at her funeral was John Denver ~ Country Roads Take Me Home. It's burned into my memory thinking about that song and looking at the back of the hearse on the way to her grave site 😢 still can't listen to it without crying.
@@zeeketteteJohn Denver songs hols a special place in my heart as well. My sister and I rode our horses and sing together. Julie passed away in 2000 of brain tumor. I am 59 left with beautiful memories. Hello from Washington state.
Only two highwaymen left. I cannot begin to the you how much Willie will be missed here in Central Texas. He does a whole lot for a lot of people behind the scenes that nobody ever hears about. The man is a National Treasure
For those who may not know, Townes Van Zandt wrote this song, and you see him throughout this video. ( in the last scene, he’s the man wearing a yellow shirt and playing a guitar). Why this is on a page for Merle is puzzling, since he sang only one verse out of the entire song. Van Zandt was considered to be the best song writer in Texas at the time. The song is about Poncho Villa, and it is said he had a friend whose name translated into Lefty. Van Zandt considered this song to be his most enduring and well known song. It’s been recorded by several artists, but the Willie Nelson/Merle Haggard version is the most well known and hit the top of the charts. It’s a great song I hope those new to country music will take note of. It’s classic in many ways.
It’s likely on Merles page because he is/was a country music legend and he did in fact sing on this song. Townes Van Zandt got all the credit due him with the writing credits and very hefty royalty checks. Taking nothing away from any of the three music legends, but all 3 deserve credit and accolades.
Not the only Great Van Zandt song to be performed by someone else and they linked to that artist instead of him, I call it Nashville disease because tons of great songwriters come up with classics that are wrote for big name artists, of course in Country Music, its just known as Tuesday.
I remember moving to Stockholm by myself at age 21 for my bachelor's degree. It was wintertime, and I often took walks in the dark evening in the woods and by the lake next to my apartment building. I always played this song, sang along softly as I walked the path and thought of my home and family in the Netherlands. Every time I play this song now that I am back in my country, I think of the beautiful time I had in Sweden. It brings tears to my eyes.
This is real country music. Real country music tells a story or a lifestyle. it’s not this whistling Pop music that you hear on the radio today, that is not country music. This is real true country music and you can tell by the emotion in the song.
I agree. I, for one, hate country music. That’s a bit of a disturbance, due to my location of living, but I do generally love this song. It’s a story, something memorable, something that makes sense. Not some garbage about Applebee’s.
@@mmartin7483 and nothing about beer or a truck or hunting it is now sadly about Whitetails and trucks and beer . Country music used to be a art form where they showed the south had poets too know every song goes like I get my truck and I’m ready shot to a buck And I get my deer and I’m ready to drink some beer . It’s like country rap know about the same things back in the day before the 90s country was about story’s and the root meanings of the song were not country in lyrics but wholesome now country music try’s to make songs about the country if you know what I mean
Who else rode with their dad, windows down dirt roads no destination, just Waylon, Willie, Hank jr, Johnny cash on the radio? Times I’d give my soul to go back to because I didn’t appreciate them as much as I do now
Shane, with me it was my 2 uncles in an old pick-up truck with the windows down and I could barely see over the dash up on my knees back in the 60's and early 70's. 3 on the tree and the world was my oyster...RIP Randy and Donny. You are missed. Thanks for the memories. Cheers!
Yep, me and my dad and his best friend out on gravel roads in the country in a 327 powered square body Chev. Throw in lots of George Jones too. Having to listen to the trash on today's country stations makes me really appreciate these classics.
Miss those times as well. Dad loved the music and I grew up on it. Lost my Dad September 3rd 2020 and my oldest dog on September 2nd 2020. Been working the riots since May 2020 in Portland. It's been a shit year. Savor every moment. Appreciate the small things because they pass so quickly. God, watch over us.
Probably my favorite Country singer. Merle Haggard had a unique voice that wasn't mistaken for anybody else. He was able to put words to music maybe better than anyone before and since him. Hell, I remember him from Hee Haw, when the family would all sit and watch on Saturday nights and I always tried to mimic his voice. I didn't always agree with his political views, but that isn't why I admired him. I admired him for what he could put into a song, his underrated ability on the guitar and what he brought to country music. I remember his impressions of Marty Robbins, Hank Snow and Johnny Cash. Nobody could do them better, not even them. He will be missed and nobody will ever replace him. I'm glad I lived in the era where I got to listen to and watch him.
This reminds me of ole pap he could play all this stuff and bring a tear to your eye. Couldn't read a lick of music, one of those old timers that played by ear, God I miss you dad.
During the 1980's (my trucker years out of Pasadena Tx) Willie's music kept me going for untold miles and smiles. Always wanted to a have a few minutes chat with Willie . . . just because he seems like such a nice guy. Thanks for everything Merle and Willie, it's been a great ride.
@@7layeroscillator807 I can confirm both of these nicknames for Pasadena Tx 👍My birthplace. Parents learned to 2 step at Gilley's. Grew up over the ship channel in Cloverleaf.
Nobody, nobody, could put the feel of country western music like Willie and Merle . I like Townes special way of picking this song and it’s beautiful too. Willie and Merle beat everyone. I have my version. But I can’t come close to any of these three. Thank you for the awesome video!
This song has always been one of my favorites. I absolutely LOVE the fact that Townes Van Zandt is in the video. First he was a Federale then the guitar player in the cafe. Well done. I also heard that Willie’s daughter produced it.
Holy Moley, I can't stay away from this song. So here goes another thought... I always thought that the introductory verse "Livin' on the road, my friend, was gonna keep you free and clean..." Was about Pancho. Now I think maybe it was Pancho singing to Lefty, and Lefty's hope of a new life. Maybe even Pancho's dying words. So cool to ponder what the poem could be... Buenas noches, amigos! :)
Reminds me of meeting my mom for the first time in '10, I was a young 43 old , whew knew I moved back to my dream in ... '12,bye '16 she passed from cancer , I lost nine family members , 2013-2020,lost my mind , I found God slowly putting myself back together ,living righteously with kindredship and compassion for others , I pray twice as much for the trespassers, and God is good to me
This gets better as the decades march inexorably forward. A classic by one of the men in the video, the legendary Townes Van Zandt. Is the haunting melancholy getting more haunting ? I'm just imagining things as I get older, maybe.
I lost my Dad last year, a few days after he had passed I had a dream about him. We were at a concert and this song was playing. He held my hand and smiled. My Dad was a huge country fan, this song means everything.
Sorry for your loss. I lost my dad in 2011 and I remember being 15 and listening to this song with him and loving it. At the time I was a metalhead BUT great music is great music, this is a masterpiece.
possibilites of events when the round up restaurant is the memory of where they did not serve panchos maybe the worst countable number of seconds in life
Brilliant song written by Townes Van Zandt. One song that I will never get tired of listening to. No matter what version. Merle & Willie, Emmylou Harris, Hoyt Axton or Townes himself of course.
This is one of my favorite songs ever and when Merle sings it is the sound of an angel singing. I wish his voice were in the song even more. It's just a fabulous song.
"Whose gonna fill their shoes"? Nobody, ever in this new generation...I'm 80 years old and been hearing these two for many many years. May you RIP Merle..... Gone but never forgotten 💔
It really is something special when Merle's part comes in. After a few versus of Willie being ahead of the beat and his high pitched voice, Merle comes in and it's like a warm drink of tea and honey......hard to explain but it is almost a relief
Funny Merle was so drunk he had to be woke up to sing his part and didn't even remember doing it the next day. Love Merle but without Willie this song would not have been made.
Imagine a convertible driving through the desert on a cool night with a million stars in the sky and this song pumping out of the stereo. WOW! Such a great song!
The cameos of Townes Van Zandt - as a bemused Federale, as a guy with a guitar in the restaurant - were a great addition. The man was a real poet, and this song is real poetry. Willie is Willie and could always spot something for the ages. Merle was for the ages, and it's interesting to watch him looking at the gravesite with something like regret, then coughing in Cleveland. Now, why anyone would flee to Cleveland is a different matter. Merle often ended up in places where he'd look around and wonder "what in the hell am I doing here?"
This song reminds me of my dear father. I can remember him rocking me to sleep as a small child to this song. He just passed in 2020 from covid at the age of 84. He was the most honest, dignified man I've ever known and this song makes me feel like he's still here with me.
They had 98% of the album complete, they just needed a title song and Townes Van Zant wrote this and Willie was like Thats IT! He goes slamming at Merle's bus door saying they had the title song hence why Merle only ends up in just a sliver of the song.
My boyfriend at the time 7 years ago loved this song we still kept i touch and i lioked after him when he was dying he passes away last year love this dong so much xx
I'm soo sorry for your loss, but as my grandmother always said.. "Absent from the body is present with the lord." I've always loved and believed that notion . And I still do 💐🌹🪻🪷
Just about my favourite country song. The mystery and melancholy get me everytime. Merle is dynamite. Wish he'd sung in a poetic vein like this more often. RIP.
I had a small A-frame cabin in the interior of Alaska. No tv, cable internet etc...I did have AM radio. I would record it when I was out hunting and trapping. I came back one night and replayed it and thats how I found this song. Back then it grabbed my attention, and I almost wore out the fibers of the cassette. Now it take me back to a wilder time in my life and I thought I was moving up, and I did...now I am going back. The cabin is a rental just north of Denali nat'l park. It's off the market in 2023.
This song really takes me back 25 years. I was working at a Top 40 Country AM radio station as a DJ. I was required to play the current hits twice an hour and that got so monotonous. But twice an hour we could play our personal choice that was considered an "oldie" and this song was always my choice. The Highwaymen was another huge favorite of mine. Country music has morphed into something I don't recognize. But this...thus was true "Outlaw Country"! I really miss those days.
Country sounded like country all the way until the mid 90s when you started hearing the more polished and cut studio tracks they tried to pass as "country". Everytime i hear these classics i get transported to a beautiful desert landscape at sundown while riding a horse. Traditional country drumming styles straight up capture the sound of being out there just ridin' around, at least to me of course. Midland's song "fourteen gears"(not the studio album version) is a perfect example of what i mean. I feel like a trucker when i hear that song lol
Even though I know it's coming, it gives me goosebumps every single time I hear Merle bring it home. I don't know exactly what it is, but it deeply affects a lot of people the same way.
Reminds me of my grandpa. Heard this song in his truck one day going to work with him. Old farm boy from Oklahoma. He stood for America and a Patriot. I'll always love this one.
My grandfather was a troubled man. An orphan, an alcoholic and was severely abused as a child. He was really strong and very smart. He became very successful and had two beautiful daughters one of whom was my mother. When he got everything he ever wanted he destroyed because he was scared someone would take it all away. He drank himself into oblivion in a bar he had built in his house. My mother and her sister forbid us from seeing him but when I grew up I was really drawn to him. We had a great relationship and I helped mend the fences. We were all there at his deathbed. My mother cried like I've never seen before and he had a soldiers burial in Arlington. This was his favorite song. R.I.P. Granpa I hope you know everyone loved you.
Thats a beautiful and tragic story. God bless you and your Grandfather.
My grandparents raised me n i never quite got to know my real dad n relate to this story R.I.P. GRAMPA love you much n miss ya
Nice tribute
They should have made a western movie out of this when the song was popular
Hey, that's a good idea. Maybe doing so now would reignite the song's popularity.
Still popular …
literally did..... its called pancho and lefty. i have it on vhs
DRRRRR
Absolutely!
All these classics are fading away , just like I am . I guess that's the way it is . I'm glad to take them with me.
19 from Oklahoma will play this song all my life
@@lethalchase1065 16, from India of all places, I love this song, country music and the open air, these classics are timeless and won't go nowhere.
Nah bro, if it's good the younger generations pick up on it. I dont know how old you are but I'm almost 50 and a die hard metal head 🤘🏻 I grew up with my older family members playing this kind of stuff and I was just to angsty and full of youthful defiance to listen to "old people music." Now that I've lived long enough to experience life I get this music. It takes a long time for an acorn to grow into a mighty oak. I still love my head banger stuff but Waylon Willie, Johnny and the rest are right there next to them in my playlists, keeping company with all the great classic rockers from the 60s and 70s. Cream rises to the top. Dont fret you're leaving it in good hands. Thank you for keeping it alive, we found it because of cats like you. Take that with you and leave the music so we can pay it forward.
@@lethalchase1065 lets fucking go brother, forever. keep it real and honour our ancestors
Making it my mission to instill these masterpieces in my kids when I have some. A piece of you will live on with that.
Townes said that he really couldn't take credit for writing this song because it came to him like a thunderbolt. He said he felt like this song was just passing through him and all he did was write it down. Typical of the humble man he was.
That was the perfect explanation of this song......❤thank you......❤❤❤❤❤😊😊😊😊😊
I seem to write poetry when I lose someone I love or when I'm really really hurt. Kinda just flows out...
Perfect gifts come from above - just have to be humble enough to receive this
💯%
I tell you only believing God healed you your family I'm David Austin Simmons gold Beach Oregon neskia by Ophir hardtack ridge Pima messiah hi grandson I declare God healed you your family I suppose
Willie, Merle, and Towns all in one video. Three of the worlds greatest singer songwriters ever in the same video. Don't get any better. Miss you Towns and Merle. Hang in there Willie.
Page from my life
This song was also recorded by Emmy Lou Harris, and it was her version that Willie Nelson first heard.
I think very few people know that Townes Van Zandt wrote this...
Seems to me that Townes lived a hard life. I'm grateful he gave us this before he departed.
Oh my god.. I am going to cry face off when will goes..all these country superstars. Nobody will ever be able to come even close. Their stellar and have left an infinity of perfect. Check me out@ caron macisaac(youtubevideo)
That tasty little lick after Merle’s delivery of “now he’s growing old” gives me goosebumps 100% of the time
took me weeks to learn it
“Say a few for Lefty too. He only did what he had to do.” Those lines always give me goosebumps.
Brings me to tears..
...we are all getting old...those of us who are lucky enough...
Get old or die trying... my grandfather always told me getting old ain't for sissies.
What the hell? Why is this song so soul ripping? There are only a few songs that last through multiple generations, yet still educe nape hair goosebumps. May God bless Townes, Nelson and Haggard. American icons.
I was grateful to see Haggard play in my home town for the first, and sadly the last time. It was weird. “I’ll see you next year!” he said, but he died the next year instead. It was a great night. Modern country fans who were probably wondering what the fuss about were cohabitating a space with old country lovers who probably watched all these old crooners in their primes. Ten gallon hats eveywhere, with farmers and country people in their best clothes and then dufusses like me that love metal and hardcore, but grew up with this music, all watching in a 100-year old theater. Heck of a night. This should be a country song itself.
It was sad to see Townes vansandt who actually wrote the song do a cameo appearance.
One of my dad's favorite songs. I lost him two weeks ago. Listening to Willie's music, it's almost like he's here with me.
So sorry for your loss; may his memory be a blessing. 💙💚🙏🏼💚💙
Chin up... this pain never goes away
You are fortune to have a dad who introduced you to music with deep messages!
My dad loved this song also. He passed away in 2011. I first heard this one when I was 15 with my dad, which was odd considering I was a metalhead. I moved 150 miles away from him when I turned 18 so I didn't see him nearly as often but in a sense he lives on in these songs. Sorry for your loss
I’m so sorry for your loss. I lost my Dad in 2020 and my Ex in 2022-the pain hurts, but the music helps.
We all live and we all die
Sad but true!!!!😢
True my friend
Yea but left sold out Pancho for the reward money they were friends great betrayal
AND GRASS IS GREEN, MEANWHILE WATER IS WET!
When I die, I'm going to be whisked across the universe to settle down and meet my soul mate
Willie Nelson was 48 yrs old, and Merle Haggard was 44, in 1981. Wow. It's like Willie got old fast, and has stayed old forever.
Right?! He looked AT LEAST 70 here lol
@@gtfochimbastrange and amazing how he hasn't that must since then in reality
But still young at heart.💕💕🙏
My momma was born in 43, she had a vinyl record cover with Willie in a suit and clean cut, I was born in 1980, she loved her some Willie clean and long haired ❤
People looked older by that time
Recently I sang this a Capella for the folks in the assisted living facility where I live myself. No one had ever heard of it before. I won our talent show as a result. Until this time no-one there knew I could sing! I made a few new Willy and Merle fans out of them😊
Awesome
You mean Townes Van Zant fans!
@@dvrn86 he has a cameo in here. Cool
Most impressive! You Rock!!!!!!!!!! Greetings from Thailand
🇮🇱😀🇮🇱
Now this song is real C&W music. Not the half-baked twangy bill shit of today.
Check out Daryll Mc Call " the weeds outlived the roses " ( 1976)
Your absolutely right 💯💪🤠
Finally someone who agrees with me. Modern country is trash but old country is amazing. A lot of people say they hate all country but old country is art. This is coming from a big rap fan, I genuinely love country
Preach it!!
agreed ... january 1st of 2000 country music died
Townes Van Zandt wrote this incredible song and we should all be thankful that these two legends covered it so masterfully. Nice to see Townes get to be in the video.
yes it is
Townes has gotten more appreciation over the years, but I think he's still massively underrated when you put him up against the famous country artists.
He is appearing in the video many times
Townes at 1.01 in
Exactly! Credit needs to go to Van Zandt. Although this is a nice version, nothing compares th-cam.com/video/zprRZ2wFQD4/w-d-xo.html
A classic!
I am 64. When this came out I was way younger and not thinking of getting old.
Life goes by so quickly and songs like this make me wish I was young again and could relive it all again. Don’t know why.
10,4
I turn 70 tomorrow and this song makes me realize I have wasted my life away, wish I could change my past, and sad that it's gonna be over soon. Peace and love is what it's all about y'all...
I agree
I’m right there with you brother. We are here then we are gone.
Me too makes me cry ..
Seeing Townes in the background is my favorite part of the video. A beautifully written song, made even better by the legends singing it.❤
Poncho needs your prayers, it's true...but save a few for Lefty too.
Heartbreaking.
This kind of music has saved me during this pandemic. Whoever reads this.....I hope you are safe and well. This too shall pass.
I'm here brother. Semper Fi!
👍👍👍👍
@@wbrobinson1 wp
And I advere to this day; The best song ever written. Thank you,
Towns van Zant for sharing your genius.
@@wbrobinson1 I got your back, devil!
One of the great, beautiful desperado ballads of all time. From the tears he sheds for his mother in the opening stanza to the tragic ending, 'now he's growing old'-- it's a moving portrait, a metaphor for all of our lives, sung by two who have lived it.
Very, very well said. I hope you write other things.
Hard to imagine, Willie has been in Music for 83 years..
67 Professionally .
First song he wrote at the age of 7.
Merle
Ah, Townes Van Zandt - what an amazing writer! Always goosebumps.
Rest In Peace Townes Van Zant who wrote this classic. He's in this video in several scenes.
Great song writer.
You got that right. He was Texas Bob Dylan
Obviously Willie and Merle had great respect for him
They should have put Townes name with the other credits at the top of the page.R.I.P.Townes and Merle.We still got Willie
But even better than Dylan.
@@ericloveday3647 He was America's Bob Dylan. Dylan will tell you that.
Love Willie, but when The Hag starts in...damn. That voice is smooth as silk, there’ll never be another. The working man’s poet.
I've thought that for years. That entry of Merle is just....
I honestly think it's the best part of an already amazing song,
Absolutely
I love the gave the writer of this song a cameo in this video.
RIP Townes Van Sandt. Writing legend
I noticed that as well. All these years and today I noticed this.
@@BMauneyGearmaker in all honesty, I didn’t know until it was pointed out to me on another TH-cam page that plays the video. Might have been this one if you scroll far enough.
Listen to Snowing on Raton...another great by TVS.
I just noticed that.
Can honestly credit Townes for getting me through my worst bouts of depression in my younger years. If I have a son I want to name them after him.
I'm from Austin and I've seen Willie a few times in my 50yrs. I was lucky my friend Gabriel Roads mom sang backup for Willie. I met Willie at that Christmas party. He was a kind gentleman. We even shared a bowl lol. Such a great memory.
Hello how are you doing today
Anyone else get chills down their spine when Mearle starts singing halfway through?
I am poncho
The story goes Merle had fallen asleep during the recording session for this song when Willie woke him up around 4:00 AM to give him his part. Merle thought they should wait until the next session to give him time to learn it, fully expecting to have to redo it later if they tried it now so late into the session. He thought the lyrics Willie brought him were "a half a mile long" and no way he could get it right that quickly. But Willie pressed on and got Merle to record it right then. That's the only take they did and that's Merle's part you hear in this song.
Yep! Loved his voice after hearing his first line. I think that’s what a good country voice sounds like.
💜
Yes I'm just now becoming a merle fan
Merle's voice is like pulling on a warm jacket on a cold day.
I love Willie’s voice ….but when Merle’s voice comes in, my heart rises. I had the pleasure to see Merle in concert in Marietta, Georgia before he died. Checked a bucket-list box.
I got to see him in Branson, Missouri. I'll never forgive myself for going to buy souvenirs at break and being outside of the room when he sang Silver Wings...my favorite song of his hands down. He was gone before I had a chance for redemption.
Yep willie’s voice is pretty underrated
Are you a big fan of his?
This is the best ever
I also love the way he sings and it gives me memories to the good old days anway how are you doing?
Songs that tell an entire story, with the music video to provide the visual. Those days are long gone.
Sadly
No they aren't.
@@frankducett9 Well I don't see any videos with a story anymore, so if you do you are lucky
Best EVER!!!
Sad but true my friend and they are not coming back sadly 😢
Im 19 and just started listening to Willie Nelson, Merle, the highway men etc. And it's the best music ive ever heard
me too man
Oh, i may need to adopt you as a musical grandson!
@@susandufour8749 bettt
Keep listening to old country my friend, it gets better. It will help you in life. May God bless you in your adventures in life.
Good for you my young friend. I am 35. I been listening to him since I was a pup. I now hold willie has my higher power. All men should believe in willie.
Lord I love this song so much. Listening to the guitar twang and Willie's voice, Merle's too, brings tears to my eyes every time I hear it.
I'm crying now
Same here. My dad used to play it for me and say "this song reminds me of us"
One day I'll figure out what he meant.
Rest easy pops till we meet again. Jim "IceMan" Puckett 1954-2020
@@robertpuckett4346who are you?
@@nickdarling9666 son of a motorcycle enthusiast and Harley rider, "The Iceman"
I don't even know why I'm crying😂😂😂
One of the best ever written" thank you you boys ❤
This is an amazing song written by Townes Van Zandtz. Perfected by Willie and Merle. Love the part where Merle comes in. He was such an exceptional singer and musician. Such a rich voice.
It is great to see Townes Van Zandt in several of the scenes as a different person each time.
First time I noticed him in the video. Agreed, very great to see
@@luketdrifter2100 yeah
Yep, he wrote this song.
Debatably one of the most iconic songs of true country music.
No.
It's not debatable.
My dad in a nutshell. I miss you dad. I hope you're surrounded by your dogs and heaven has good fishing.
Hello,how are you doing?
👍🏻
Les animaux sont interdits au ciel.
I'm on my way I'll meet you at the old fishing hole. Rick
Me too brother, I'm hoping for peace for you and your dad.
Two of the greatest EVER
Oh yeah! Oh Hell yeah!!!
Three of the greatest ever.
The legends are dying off and their sure as hell not being replaced.
Check out hellbound glory..
Unfortunately Charley Pride has gone to the other side today.
so true
sturgill simpson, tyler childers, colter wall, jason isbell are doing their best!
@@jonahmenikoff1997 In my opinion, they do not replace Merle Haggard, Johnny Cash, George Jones, Waylon Jennings etc...
Heavy metal maniac here.
THIS SONG IS A MASTERPIECE!
Every once in a while, I come here, set it to loop, and let it play.
Today is one of those days.
Listen to the original by townes van zandt
I'm with you brother! I'm still old school metal with Pantera, Metallica, Slayer and Motorhead.
As an old-time Texas cattle rancher, I never was a metalhead . . . till I heard the folk rock/Hunnu rock/heavy metal Mongolian band: The HU. They've toured Texas twice now (2019 and 2021), and their heartfelt ballads, Metallica-approved covers, and straight-up rock hold my full attention. As for the Hag, his last performance was given just a few miles down the road from me, at the Nutty Brown Cafe in 2015. Forever memorable. RIP, Merle Haggard.
🤘
Metal head here : Listen to the (specific) Townes Van Zandt - Rear View Mirror (live album) track #1 to hear the Greatest version (just 2 guitars and a fiddle). Love this one though.
Reminds me of my grandpa. We would listen to this on cassette tape of Willie Nelson called ‘half Nelson’. A tape of songs that Willie did with other singers. I am almost 43. Grandpa passed away when I was 16 and I still miss him everyday. It is amazing how one person can have such an impact in this world. When grandpa passed I lost my fishing partner. I don’t go camping anymore. Haven’t been to Montana or go on summer trips much like we use to. However, it is also because of grandpa that I never tried alcohol or drugs. He had his sobriety at the three year mark when I was born and maintained that until he passed away. He was straight up with me and lead me down the correct path. Miss you grandpa.
I still have my grandmother's Willie Nelson cassette tape. Takes me back in time to the backseat of her car listening to good ole Willie.
Sorry for your loss.. thank God for solid parents/grandparents. There is not enough of them anymore
Charlie81980-Your grandfather sounds like a very GOOD man and I am betting that you are a good solid man yourself. Like you, I have been blessed to have some incredible influences in and upon my life. Most of them are gone now but I like to think that somewhere in some way they are still watching me. It helps me sometimes to do the next right thing and every now and then to make better decisions than I might without the love and respect I have for those who showed me the way. I hope there are people in your life who are just coming up and can benefit from your examples and experiences just as you did with your grandfather. Thank you for sharing your story brother.
Charlie81980-Your grandfather sounds like a very GOOD man and I am betting that you are a good solid man yourself. Like you, I have been blessed to have some incredible influences in and upon my life. Most of them are gone now but I like to think that somewhere in some way they are still watching me. It helps me sometimes to do the next right thing and every now and then to make better decisions than I might without the love and respect I have for those who showed me the way. I hope there are people in your life who are just coming up and can benefit from your examples and experiences.
God bless Grandpa
The song tells the story of two outlaw characters, Pancho and Lefty. Pancho is portrayed as a Mexican bandit, while Lefty is his American accomplice. The lyrics depict the betrayal of Pancho by Lefty, who turns him in for a reward. The song explores themes of friendship, betrayal, loyalty, and the harsh realities of life on the run.
People used to say the song was about Pancho Villa life story?.... There "Might" be some Similarities; Pancho Villa did have Americans fighting in his Army. He was betrayed by those who were close to him or (set-up in the ambush in Parral, Chihuahua México) My 2- grandfather's on both sides, lived in that part of Mexico, Durango where Pancho Villa was from and lived in his, hacienda during that time period.
My Dad was 2- yrs. old when Pancho Villa was killed, and during the Mexican Revolution there was certainly lots of; killing, betrayals, friendship and loyalty around? It must have been Crazy Not Knowing Who to Trust or Not!!!
@@paulruiz4518 The writer of the song Townes Van Zandt specifically said the song was NOT about Pancho Villa
@gwyngriffiths3669 that's correct? But I said "Similarities" Not the same?
@@paulruiz4518the Mexican revolution was the real “Wild West” the u.s just copied the culture and made it into cowboy western movies. Anglos from Texas aren’t aware that they copied the cowboy culture from Mexican vaqueros/mexican cowboys. Anglos migrated to Texas,Mexico as pilgrims.
@azul_6.5-cf7dm That's Absolutely True!!.....
Never forget Townes Van Zandt, the genius that wrote this epic, epic song...
...and he's in this vid. :-D
What a Genius Song writer!
Yes Sir. He wrote the best ballad in Country Music History.
@@Jeffbambam no
When you see Willie and Merle sitting at the table with the Townes the next table over, it zooms in close on willie and his head his looking in Townes direction singing to him.
We renovated a house back in 1999. Two Hispanics helped us out. Their names were Pancho and Juan; Juan was left handed and our 72 year old Master Carpenter delighted in calling them Pancho & Lefty.
Well I want to believe they just disappeared . Like all the other so said bad guys. If so….
Racist.
Don't be a Hater.. the world has to much of that
It was not racist at all. They thought it was great.
Not racist at all !!! It’s just like a beautiful coincidence!!! It’s happened to me !!!!
My 2 yr old wants me to play this song for him before bed almost every night...he sings along. Music lovers young and old will continue appreciate these guys.
He’ll remember it for life
My 21 yr old GRANDSON Used to call it "NANA'S SONG!!".We played it over and over from Dallas to Oklahoma!! He would say, "PLAY NANA'S SONG!"HE STILL REMEMBERS IT AND ALWAYS WILL!! "SOOO ADORABLE!"
An old soul✌️🥺
Keep your eye on that boy he’s going places fast🤠
thats the people we need these days, and forget about life for awhile
One of my favorite songs....Willie and Mr. Haggard....when Music was Music....and you sat and listened to every word....and looked off in the distance....and imagined .....you were there....Indeed.
God this is Beautiful. Special, beyond special. Meaningful, beyond meaningful. Townes you found it.
This song is an earworm for me at the moment
You are not alone.
And it's still there. At least I'll know the words if I ever try to sing this karaoke when drunk.......again.
I told my daughter that this is the last song I wish to hear at my funeral. If she messes it up, I'll haunt her for life.
... escaped a few Federales (like me, see name!), huh?!
She'll never be able to listen to it without crying after that.. lost my sister in 2015, she died in Ohio due to a car wreck but we are born and raised in West Virginia and the last song that they played at her funeral was John Denver ~ Country Roads Take Me Home. It's burned into my memory thinking about that song and looking at the back of the hearse on the way to her grave site 😢 still can't listen to it without crying.
Out of kindness suppose .❤
@@zeeketteteJohn Denver songs hols a special place in my heart as well. My sister and I rode our horses and sing together. Julie passed away in 2000 of brain tumor. I am 59 left with beautiful memories. Hello from Washington state.
@@Rockyson065God bless!
This video just takes you somewhere. Willie, And Merle. I love Willie, But when Merle kicks in, It gives me goose bumps. 🙂
Hello how are you doing today?
These two are at a minimum show what real country music is… the musics now a days isn’t rea country
Only two highwaymen left. I cannot begin to the you how much Willie will be missed here in Central Texas. He does a whole lot for a lot of people behind the scenes that nobody ever hears about. The man is a National Treasure
For those who may not know, Townes Van Zandt wrote this song, and you see him throughout this video. ( in the last scene, he’s the man wearing a yellow shirt and playing a guitar). Why this is on a page for Merle is puzzling, since he sang only one verse out of the entire song. Van Zandt was considered to be the best song writer in Texas at the time. The song is about Poncho Villa, and it is said he had a friend whose name translated into Lefty. Van Zandt considered this song to be his most enduring and well known song. It’s been recorded by several artists, but the Willie Nelson/Merle Haggard version is the most well known and hit the top of the charts. It’s a great song I hope those new to country music will take note of. It’s classic in many ways.
It’s likely on Merles page because he is/was a country music legend and he did in fact sing on this song. Townes Van Zandt got all the credit due him with the writing credits and very hefty royalty checks. Taking nothing away from any of the three music legends, but all 3 deserve credit and accolades.
Actually Townes said, "I didn't write this song." He said it came through him, and he tried for years to find out what it was about.
Only ‘Q’ can answer
yeah I love how it just goes without being acknowledged
Not the only Great Van Zandt song to be performed by someone else and they linked to that artist instead of him, I call it Nashville disease because tons of great songwriters come up with classics that are wrote for big name artists, of course in Country Music, its just known as Tuesday.
I play this song all the time my mom was my best friend and loving mom. She just passed away at 91 . I miss her so much
Thanks for this song.❤
❤
91 is a long-lived life. I hope you find comfort in that and take care of yourself. Your mom is resting well.
sorry for your loss
@@danlogan5657 Thank youGod bless you.
Merle made this song….epic and the best ever! We love you Merle
I remember moving to Stockholm by myself at age 21 for my bachelor's degree. It was wintertime, and I often took walks in the dark evening in the woods and by the lake next to my apartment building. I always played this song, sang along softly as I walked the path and thought of my home and family in the Netherlands. Every time I play this song now that I am back in my country, I think of the beautiful time I had in Sweden. It brings tears to my eyes.
This is real country music. Real country music tells a story or a lifestyle. it’s not this whistling Pop music that you hear on the radio today, that is not country music. This is real true country music and you can tell by the emotion in the song.
I agree 100% with you. No screaming no swearing and they didn't need to be half naked to make a Hit!
Mainstream country died when Bush left office
amen! bro country sucks!!!
I agree. I, for one, hate country music. That’s a bit of a disturbance, due to my location of living, but I do generally love this song. It’s a story, something memorable, something that makes sense. Not some garbage about Applebee’s.
@@mmartin7483 and nothing about beer or a truck or hunting it is now sadly about Whitetails and trucks and beer . Country music used to be a art form where they showed the south had poets too know every song goes like I get my truck and I’m ready shot to a buck
And I get my deer and I’m ready to drink some beer . It’s like country rap know about the same things back in the day before the 90s country was about story’s and the root meanings of the song were not country in lyrics but wholesome now country music try’s to make songs about the country if you know what I mean
Honestly, how many times can one listen to this masterpiece and not get tired of it? Still counting.........
Same
Set on endless repeat friend and fade into it.
Disobedient Nomed it is a very nice song
For ever
@Disobedient Nomed q
There are only a few songs that give me goosebumps. This is one of them. Love the song and Willie and Merle 👏🏻❤️‼️
Totally agree
Look up Jae Mason!! He was good as well!!
@@shanemason7163 … Thanks. I’ll check him out.
Red knecks privilege
Who else rode with their dad, windows down dirt roads no destination, just Waylon, Willie, Hank jr, Johnny cash on the radio? Times I’d give my soul to go back to because I didn’t appreciate them as much as I do now
Shane, with me it was my 2 uncles in an old pick-up truck with the windows down and I could barely see over the dash up on my knees back in the 60's and early 70's. 3 on the tree and the world was my oyster...RIP Randy and Donny. You are missed. Thanks for the memories. Cheers!
Yep, me and my dad and his best friend out on gravel roads in the country in a 327 powered square body Chev. Throw in lots of George Jones too. Having to listen to the trash on today's country stations makes me really appreciate these classics.
I sure did I miss my dad& the good olday's
Miss those times as well. Dad loved the music and I grew up on it. Lost my Dad September 3rd 2020 and my oldest dog on September 2nd 2020. Been working the riots since May 2020 in Portland. It's been a shit year. Savor every moment. Appreciate the small things because they pass so quickly. God, watch over us.
And marty mostly. My dad's favorite. Mine too
Probably my favorite Country singer. Merle Haggard had a unique voice that wasn't mistaken for anybody else. He was able to put words to music maybe better than anyone before and since him. Hell, I remember him from Hee Haw, when the family would all sit and watch on Saturday nights and I always tried to mimic his voice. I didn't always agree with his political views, but that isn't why I admired him. I admired him for what he could put into a song, his underrated ability on the guitar and what he brought to country music. I remember his impressions of Marty Robbins, Hank Snow and Johnny Cash. Nobody could do them better, not even them. He will be missed and nobody will ever replace him. I'm glad I lived in the era where I got to listen to and watch him.
Oh my, they both sing like angels on this song. They really nailed it. Thank you, Townes.
I Guess you're a country MUSIC lover?
Hi Betsy, Willie and Merle do a great job on Pancho but I can't get enough of Emmylou's version kills me every time. Stay safe girl
@@jonsebastian4823 oh really?
Townes was beautiful and so are Haggard and Nelson.
@George Dave ciao George!come stai?🙋🥰😍😊😘
There will never be Country music this good again.. All the Great ones have passed on or will soon be there. Damn I miss those good days of Country..
oh yes grew up in nashville in the 40's
What was that like? Very interesting ❤@@williameidson7289
This reminds me of ole pap he could play all this stuff and bring a tear to your eye. Couldn't read a lick of music, one of those old timers that played by ear, God I miss you dad.
During the 1980's (my trucker years out of Pasadena Tx) Willie's music kept me going for untold miles and smiles. Always wanted to a have a few minutes chat with Willie . . . just because he seems like such a nice guy. Thanks for everything Merle and Willie, it's been a great ride.
pasa get down dena
or in my neighborhood, stinkadena
@@7layeroscillator807 I can confirm both of these nicknames for Pasadena Tx 👍My birthplace. Parents learned to 2 step at Gilley's. Grew up over the ship channel in Cloverleaf.
it makes me remember alot
Hello Steven, how are you doing today it’s nice to meet you here 😊
Nobody, nobody, could put the feel of country western music like Willie and Merle . I like Townes special way of picking this song and it’s beautiful too. Willie and Merle beat everyone. I have my version. But I can’t come close to any of these three. Thank you for the awesome video!
This song has always been one of my favorites. I absolutely LOVE the fact that Townes Van Zandt is in the video. First he was a Federale then the guitar player in the cafe. Well done. I also heard that Willie’s daughter produced it.
Beautiful I love this well done ❤
Right on about Townes Van Zandt - had to do a double take the first time I saw it.
This is my all time favorite song. I’ve often told my family that I want it played at my funeral.
I'm make Shore we play wap for you
Same here
Holy Moley, I can't stay away from this song. So here goes another thought... I always thought that the introductory verse "Livin' on the road, my friend, was gonna keep you free and clean..." Was about Pancho. Now I think maybe it was Pancho singing to Lefty, and Lefty's hope of a new life. Maybe even Pancho's dying words. So cool to ponder what the poem could be... Buenas noches, amigos! :)
Reminds me of meeting my mom for the first time in '10, I was a young 43 old , whew knew I moved back to my dream in ... '12,bye '16 she passed from cancer , I lost nine family members , 2013-2020,lost my mind , I found God slowly putting myself back together ,living righteously with kindredship and compassion for others , I pray twice as much for the trespassers, and God is good to me
Possibly one of the best songs of all time. Lyrics, vocals, and producing, spot on!
This gets better as the decades march inexorably forward. A classic by one of the men in the video, the legendary Townes Van Zandt. Is the haunting melancholy getting more haunting ? I'm just imagining things as I get older, maybe.
I lost my Dad last year, a few days after he had passed I had a dream about him. We were at a concert and this song was playing. He held my hand and smiled. My Dad was a huge country fan, this song means everything.
@Greg Normal yes, very much so.
🙏
Sorry for your loss. I lost my dad in 2011 and I remember being 15 and listening to this song with him and loving it. At the time I was a metalhead BUT great music is great music, this is a masterpiece.
😢 miss my dad too sometimes
I lost my dad in 97' Miss him dearly.... your dad wanted you to know he was with you ❤
possibilites of events when the round up restaurant is the memory of where they did not serve panchos maybe the worst countable number of seconds in life
Hello how are you doing 😊
Brilliant song written by Townes Van Zandt. One song that I will never get tired of listening to. No matter what version. Merle & Willie, Emmylou Harris, Hoyt Axton or Townes himself of course.
respect to willie and merle for including townes in the video
Totally agree!
Yes. The author of the song. Cool
Respect to townes for including them you mean
Thank you.
@@phillipgeorge4278 true ;D
The cameos by Townes are a nice touch, but definitely listen to his solo version. Absolutely killer.
The original is the far superior version... which is really saying something when this version is so good.
This is one of my favorite songs ever and when Merle sings it is the sound of an angel singing. I wish his voice were in the song even more. It's just a fabulous song.
I'll Forever love this song.
R.I.P. Merle...
So will I my grandfather's favorite song he's been gone for 12 years now and I still listen to it
Antonio Ferreira Neto
Ok thanks
Antonio Ferreira Neto RIP Merle!!!!
And Townes..
I will too.
That mournful tone in Willie's voice always gives me chills
"Whose gonna fill their shoes"? Nobody, ever in this new generation...I'm 80 years old and been hearing these two for many many years. May you RIP Merle..... Gone but never forgotten 💔
Im 74 and you are absolutely right!
Say a prayer for Lefty... RIP Merle.
It really is something special when Merle's part comes in. After a few versus of Willie being ahead of the beat and his high pitched voice, Merle comes in and it's like a warm drink of tea and honey......hard to explain but it is almost a relief
Funny Merle was so drunk he had to be woke up to sing his part and didn't even remember doing it the next day. Love Merle but without Willie this song would not have been made.
Willie's voice is his guitar, and his guitar is his voice. I think his vocal style is gentle, endearing, and always souful!
Imagine a convertible driving through the desert on a cool night with a million stars in the sky and this song pumping out of the stereo. WOW! Such a great song!
I like the way you think.
Epic.Comment. Ever!
The cameos of Townes Van Zandt - as a bemused Federale, as a guy with a guitar in the restaurant - were a great addition. The man was a real poet, and this song is real poetry. Willie is Willie and could always spot something for the ages. Merle was for the ages, and it's interesting to watch him looking at the gravesite with something like regret, then coughing in Cleveland. Now, why anyone would flee to Cleveland is a different matter. Merle often ended up in places where he'd look around and wonder "what in the hell am I doing here?"
Yeah he sure did, like San Quentin!
Great Song & Awesome Video.
Hello, how are you doing today, I hope you are having a wonderful day?
This song reminds me of my dear father. I can remember him rocking me to sleep as a small child to this song. He just passed in 2020 from covid at the age of 84. He was the most honest, dignified man I've ever known and this song makes me feel like he's still here with me.
When Merle starts singing it's as crisp as a brand new $100 bill.
They had 98% of the album complete, they just needed a title song and Townes Van Zant wrote this and Willie was like Thats IT! He goes slamming at Merle's bus door saying they had the title song hence why Merle only ends up in just a sliver of the song.
Who’s gonna fill their shoes?
😢
I was out law when outlaw wasn't cool 😢
No one 😥
No one ever!
No one. Couldn't fit in their boots anyway! 💚👍🏽🎶🎸😪
My boyfriend at the time 7 years ago loved this song we still kept i touch and i lioked after him when he was dying he passes away last year love this dong so much xx
I'm soo sorry for your loss, but as my grandmother always said..
"Absent from the body is present with the lord."
I've always loved and believed that notion . And I still do 💐🌹🪻🪷
I’m sorry for your loss.
Both Merle and Willie are my favourites, but this song by them cemented Townes Van Zandt legend as a songwriter. I never tire of this one!
@Jeff Yoder Willie didn't write Panch and Lefty. Townes Van Zant wrote it.
Songs like this made me love country music.
This is my favorite Willie Nelson/Merle Haggard song ever! I never get tired of listening to it! Great song and chorus!
Mrpackers2012 mine too.. such a great song😢
Just about my favourite country song. The mystery and melancholy get me everytime. Merle is dynamite. Wish he'd sung in a poetic vein like this more often. RIP.
I had a small A-frame cabin in the interior of Alaska. No tv, cable internet etc...I did have AM radio. I would record it when I was out hunting and trapping. I came back one night and replayed it and thats how I found this song. Back then it grabbed my attention, and I almost wore out the fibers of the cassette. Now it take me back to a wilder time in my life and I thought I was moving up, and I did...now I am going back. The cabin is a rental just north of Denali nat'l park. It's off the market in 2023.
Hi Joel
@@emilyjudith 👋
@@emilyjudith all your comments are 'HI [male name]. That's not sketch. Definitely not a bot.
@@joelwerre trying to make friends with the people I share same music with, is that such a bad thing?
@@emilyjudith Hi Emily. I like your style.
This song really takes me back 25 years. I was working at a Top 40 Country AM radio station as a DJ. I was required to play the current hits twice an hour and that got so monotonous. But twice an hour we could play our personal choice that was considered an "oldie" and this song was always my choice. The Highwaymen was another huge favorite of mine. Country music has morphed into something I don't recognize. But this...thus was true "Outlaw Country"! I really miss those days.
Country sounded like country all the way until the mid 90s when you started hearing the more polished and cut studio tracks they tried to pass as "country". Everytime i hear these classics i get transported to a beautiful desert landscape at sundown while riding a horse. Traditional country drumming styles straight up capture the sound of being out there just ridin' around, at least to me of course. Midland's song "fourteen gears"(not the studio album version) is a perfect example of what i mean. I feel like a trucker when i hear that song lol
I get chills when Merle comes in toward the end.
Know what you mean...🎼🤥
A song that never gets old
Me too! Every time since I was a little girl 35 yrs ago.
Yes! Merle.. He can just nail stuff like no-one else. 03:50 ! :>)
Even though I know it's coming, it gives me goosebumps every single time I hear Merle bring it home. I don't know exactly what it is, but it deeply affects a lot of people the same way.
Merle Haggard’s voice in this song is as smooth as I’ve ever heard. Pure beauty
My mom loved this song. RIP Dolores, cheers to you! xoxo
Hello Amy
18 wheels, good music, and a good road; that's all I ever asked for. The simple life. I was blessed 44 years. Amen.
Reminds me of my grandpa. Heard this song in his truck one day going to work with him. Old farm boy from Oklahoma. He stood for America and a Patriot. I'll always love this one.
This song is so beautiful and haunting. Willie and Merle are amazing.
Excellent comment
@4Q2 smith What a song. How sad. How beautiful. Thank you for suggesting it. TVZ wrote songs made of lightning and tears.
Absolutely beautiful and amazing, Hi how are you doing?
God Bless Merle Haggard. You are missed!