About the song
“(The Man Who Shot) Liberty Valance,” written by Burt Bacharach and Hal David, and performed by Gene Pitney in 1962, stands as a poignant ballad that captures the essence of the Wild West mythos. Despite not being featured in the film of the same name, the song became a notable hit, peaking at No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and achieving significant rankings in Canada and New Zealand.
The song narrates the legendary tale of Liberty Valance, a menacing outlaw feared by all in the town, and the brave man who ultimately confronts him. It opens with descriptions of Valance’s ruthless demeanor and formidable gun skills, setting a tense and dramatic tone. The lyrics then shift to focus on the arrival of a newcomer, a man of law and justice, determined to face Valance without resorting to violence.
The chorus, underscored by a striking tympani beat, emphasizes the bravery and decisive action of the man who shoots Liberty Valance. The solo violin adds a haunting quality to the song, evoking a sense of melancholy and heroism intertwined. As the story unfolds, it delves into themes of courage, sacrifice, and the moral dilemmas faced in the Old West.
Despite some deviations from the film’s plot, particularly in the portrayal of the characters and their motivations, the song encapsulates the essence of the film’s narrative through its evocative lyrics and stirring melody. It resonates with listeners not only for its cinematic storytelling but also for its exploration of timeless themes of justice and honor.
Following Pitney’s rendition, the song has been covered by various artists over the years, each bringing their own interpretation to the classic tale. Jimmie Rodgers offered a rendition similar to Pitney’s original, maintaining its narrative structure and emotive power. In later years, the Greg Kihn Band and James Taylor also recorded their versions, showcasing the enduring appeal and relevance of this iconic Western-themed ballad.
Ranked among the top Western songs of all time by the Western Writers of America, “(The Man Who Shot) Liberty Valance” continues to captivate audiences with its blend of storytelling prowess and musical craftsmanship, solidifying its place in the pantheon of enduring American ballads.
Video
Lyrics
When Liberty Valance rode to town
The womenfolk would hide, they’d hide
When Liberty Valance walked around
The men would step aside
… ‘Cause the point of a gun was the only law
That Liberty understood
When it came to shooting straight and fast
He was mighty good
… From out of the East a stranger came
A law book in his hand, a man
The kind of a man the West would need
To tame a troubled land
… ‘Cause the point of a gun was the only law
That Liberty understood
When it came to shooting straight and fast
He was mighty good
… Many a man would face his gun
And many a man would fall
The man who shot Liberty Valance
He shot Liberty Valance
He was the bravest of them all
… The love of a girl can make a man stay on
When he should go, stay on
Just trying to build a peaceful life
Where love is free to grow
… But the point of a gun was the only law
That Liberty understood
When the final showdown came at last
A law book was no good
… Alone and afraid, she prayed that he’d
Return that fateful night, oh that night
When nothing she said could keep her man
From going out to fight
… From the moment a girl gets to be full grown
The very first thing she learns
When two men go out to face each other
Only one returns
… Everyone heard two shots ring out
One shot made Liberty fall
The man who shot Liberty Valence
He shot Liberty Valance
He was the bravest of them all
… The man who shot Liberty Valance
He shot Liberty Valance
He was the bravest of them all