“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
“Big Iron” is a classic country and western song performed by the iconic American musician Marty Robbins. Released in 1959, the song quickly became one of Robbins’ most popular hits, showcasing his storytelling prowess and distinctive vocal style. The narrative-driven lyrics and memorable melody have cemented “Big Iron” as a staple in the genre, resonating with audiences across generations. The song tells the tale of an Arizona ranger and his confrontation with an outlaw, creating a vivid picture of the Wild West.
Marty Robbins was known for his ability to weave compelling stories through song, and “Big Iron” is no exception. The song’s success contributed to Robbins’ reputation as a master of the Western ballad, and it remains a beloved piece of his musical legacy.
About The Composition
- Title: Big Iron
- Composer: Marty Robbins
- Premiere Date: 1959
- Album/Opus/Collection: Gunfighter Ballads and Trail Songs
- Genre: Country, Western
Background
“Big Iron” was part of Marty Robbins’ album “Gunfighter Ballads and Trail Songs,” which was released in 1959. The song captures the essence of Western folklore, drawing on themes of bravery, justice, and the untamed frontier. Robbins’ inspiration for the song likely stemmed from his love of the American West and its rich tradition of storytelling.
The album itself was a critical and commercial success, with “Big Iron” standing out as a highlight. Its vivid narrative and Robbins’ engaging delivery drew listeners into the world of the Old West, making it a memorable entry in the musician’s extensive catalog.
Musical Style
“Big Iron” features a classic Western musical style characterized by its steady rhythm and twangy guitar accompaniment. The arrangement is simple yet effective, allowing Robbins’ voice and the story to take center stage. The song’s melody is catchy and easy to follow, reinforcing its enduring appeal.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrical themes of “Big Iron” focus on a tale of justice and heroism. The song narrates the encounter between a fearless ranger and a notorious outlaw, highlighting themes of courage and the triumph of good over evil. Through its storytelling, the song paints a vivid picture of Western adventure and law enforcement.
Performance History
“Big Iron” has been performed by numerous artists over the years, each bringing their unique interpretation to the classic song. While Marty Robbins’ original version remains the most iconic, the song has been covered by artists across various genres, demonstrating its versatility and widespread appeal.
Cultural Impact
“Big Iron” has had a significant influence on popular culture, often appearing in films, television shows, and video games that celebrate Western themes. Its inclusion in the video game “Fallout: New Vegas” introduced the song to a new generation, further cementing its place in the cultural lexicon.
Legacy
Today, “Big Iron” continues to be celebrated as a quintessential Western song, admired for its storytelling and musical craftsmanship. It remains a favorite among fans of country and Western music, reflecting the timeless appeal of the genre and Robbins’ enduring influence as an artist.
Conclusion
“Big Iron” by Marty Robbins is a masterful blend of narrative and melody that captures the spirit of the American West. Its enduring popularity speaks to the universal themes of heroism and justice, inviting listeners to explore the rich tradition of Western music. I encourage you to delve deeper into Marty Robbins’ discography and the world of gunfighter ballads for a truly immersive musical experience.
Video
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 24
And the notches on his pistol numbered one and 19 more
One and 19 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
20 men had tried to take him, 20 men had made a slip
21 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 20 past 11 when they walked out in the street
Folks were watching from the windows, everybody held their breath
They knew this handsome ranger was about to meet his death
About to meet his death
There was 40 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