About the song
Marty Robbins’ “Big Iron”: A Western Ballad Classic
Marty Robbins was a master of the western ballad, and “Big Iron” is perhaps his most iconic song. Released in 1959, this classic tale of a showdown in a small western town has captivated audiences for generations.
The song, “Big Iron”, tells the story of a quick-draw artist who faces off against a ruthless outlaw. Set against the backdrop of the Wild West, the lyrics paint a vivid picture of a lawless frontier town. The song’s narrative is straightforward yet compelling, with a clear-cut conflict between good and evil.
Musically, “Big Iron” is a quintessential western ballad. The driving rhythm and twangy guitar create a sense of tension and excitement, while the pedal steel guitar adds a touch of melancholy. The song’s arrangement is simple yet effective, allowing the lyrics and vocals to take center stage.
Robbins’ performance is nothing short of captivating. His deep, resonant voice and dramatic delivery bring the characters and setting to life. The way he builds suspense throughout the song, culminating in the climactic showdown, is a testament to his storytelling abilities.
“Big Iron” has endured as a classic for several reasons. First, the song’s universal themes of good versus evil and the struggle for justice resonate with audiences of all ages. Second, the music is both exciting and memorable, making it a perfect choice for those who enjoy a good western story. And finally, Robbins’ performance is simply unforgettable, making him one of the most iconic figures in country music history.
Beyond its musical merits, “Big Iron” also holds historical significance. It helped to popularize the western genre and inspired countless other artists to write songs about the Old West. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to the timeless appeal of a good western story.
If you’re a fan of classic country music or simply appreciate a well-told tale, then you’ll love “Big Iron”. It’s a timeless piece of music that continues to be enjoyed by fans of all ages.
Video
Lyrics
To the town of Agua Fria rode a stranger one fine dayHardly spoke to folks around him, didn’t have too much to sayNo one dared to ask his business, no one dared to make a slipFor the stranger there among them had a big iron on his hipBig iron on his hipIt was early in the morning when he rode into the townHe came riding from the south side slowly lookin’ all aroundHe’s an outlaw loose and running, came the whisper from each lipAnd he’s here to do some business with the big iron on his hipBig iron on his hipIn this town there lived an outlaw by the name of Texas RedMany men had tried to take him and that many men were deadHe was vicious and a killer though a youth of 24And the notches on his pistol numbered one and 19 moreOne and 19 moreNow the stranger started talking, made it plain to folks aroundWas an Arizona ranger, wouldn’t be too long in townHe came here to take an outlaw back alive or maybe deadAnd he said it didn’t matter he was after Texas RedAfter Texas RedWasn’t long before the story was relayed to Texas RedBut the outlaw didn’t worry men that tried before were dead20 men had tried to take him, 20 men had made a slip21 would be the ranger with the big iron on his hipBig iron on his hipThe morning passed so quickly, it was time for them to meetIt was 20 past 11 when they walked out in the streetFolks were watching from the windows, everybody held their breathThey knew this handsome ranger was about to meet his deathAbout to meet his deathThere was 40 feet between them when they stopped to make their playAnd the swiftness of the ranger is still talked about todayTexas Red had not cleared leather ‘fore a bullet fairly rippedAnd the ranger’s aim was deadly with the big iron on his hipBig iron on his hipIt was over in a moment and the folks had gathered roundThere before them lay the body of the outlaw on the groundOh, he might have went on living but he made one fatal slipWhen he tried to match the ranger with the big iron on his hipBig iron on his hipBig iron, big ironWhen he tried to match the ranger with the big iron on his hipBig iron on his hip