Sample Introduction: Shotgun Willie by Willie Nelson

About the song

Willie Nelson’s iconic album, “Shotgun Willie,” released in 1973, marked a turning point in the country music legend’s career. This raw and rebellious record, aptly titled after its standout track, showcased Nelson’s ability to blend traditional country sounds with a more outlaw-inspired approach.

The album’s title track, “Shotgun Willie,” is a gritty and autobiographical tale that paints a vivid picture of Nelson’s rugged lifestyle. With lyrics filled with references to whiskey, hard times, and a general sense of wanderlust, the song captures the essence of a man who is both defiant and deeply human. Nelson’s distinctive voice, with its weathered and world-weary quality, is the perfect vehicle for delivering these heartfelt and honest lyrics.

One of the most striking aspects of “Shotgun Willie” is its unpolished and spontaneous feel. The album was recorded quickly and with minimal overdubs, giving it a live and energetic quality that sets it apart from many of Nelson’s more polished studio recordings. This raw and unfiltered sound helped to establish Nelson as a maverick figure in the country music world and influenced countless artists who followed in his footsteps.

Beyond the title track, “Shotgun Willie” features a collection of songs that explore themes of love, loss, and the passage of time. Tracks like “Whiskey River” and “Sad Songs and Waltzes” have become country standards, showcasing Nelson’s ability to craft memorable melodies and poignant lyrics. The album also includes several original compositions that highlight Nelson’s songwriting talent, such as “Local Memory” and “Slow Down Old World.”

“Shotgun Willie” is more than just a country music album; it’s a snapshot of a particular time and place in American history. The album’s themes of individualism, rebellion, and the search for meaning resonate with listeners of all ages. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Willie Nelson or new to his music, “Shotgun Willie” is a must-listen that offers a glimpse into the heart and soul of one of country music’s greatest artists.

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Lyrics

Your sorry eyes
They cut through the bone
Making it hard
To leave you alone

Leaving you here
Wearing your wounds
Waving your guns
At somebody new

Baby, your lost
Baby, your lost
Baby, your lost cause

There’s too many people
That you used to know
They see you comin’
And they see you go

They know your secrets
And you know theirs
This town is crazy (this town is crazy)
But nobody cares

Baby, your lost
Baby, your lost
Baby, your lost cause

I’m tired of fightin’
I’m tired of fightin’
Fightin’ for a lost cause

There is a place where you are going
That you ain’t never been before
There is no one laughing at your back now
No one’s standing at your door
Is that what you thought love was for?

Baby, your lost
Baby, your lost
Baby, your lost cause

I’m tired of fightin’
I’m tired of fightin’
Fightin’ for a lost cause