Merle Haggard, Willie Nelson - Pancho and Lefty (Video)

Merle Haggard with Willie Nelson, "Pancho And Lefty"
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Lyrics:
Living on the road my friend was gonna keep you free and clean
Now you wear your skin like iron and your breath's as hard as kerosene
You weren't your mama's only boy but her favorite one it seems
She began to cry when you said goodbye and sank into your dreams
Poncho was a bandit boy, his horse was fast as polished steel
He wore his gun outside his pants for all the honest world to feel
Poncho met his match you know on the deserts down in Mexico
Nobody heard his dyin' words ah but that's the way it goes
All the Federales say they could've had him any day
They only let him slip away out of kindness I suppose
Lefty he can't sing the blues all night long the way he used to
The dust that Poncho bit down south ended up in Lefty's mouth
Day they laid poor Poncho low Lefty split for Ohio
Where he got the bread to go there ain't nobody knows
All the Federales say they could've had him any day
They only let him slip away out of kindness I suppose
The poets tell how Poncho fell and Lefty's living in a cheap hotel
The desert's quiet and Cleveland's cold and so the story ends we're told
Poncho needs your prayers it's true but save a few for Lefty too
He only did what he had to do and now he's growing old
They only let him go so long out of kindness I suppose
A few great Federales say could've had him any day
They only let him go so long out of kindness I suppose
#WillieNelson #MerleHaggard #PanchoAndLefty

[@jerimiahhamby4790]

I love the gave the writer of this song a cameo in this video. RIP Townes Van Sandt. Writing legend

[@BMauneyGearmaker]

I noticed that as well. All these years and today I noticed this.

[@jerimiahhamby4790]

@@BMauneyGearmaker in all honesty, I didn’t know until it was pointed out to me on another KZbin page that plays the video. Might have been this one if you scroll far enough.

[@davidcook7528]

Listen to Snowing on Raton...another great by TVS.

[@Calebevansmusic]

I just noticed that.

[@alexanderdeppa8044]

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.

[@jimmycollette9209]

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.

[@charlesbrowngodhelpmeimiss4907]

Page from my life

[@regdavies5737]

This song was also recorded by Emmy Lou Harris, and it was her version that Willie Nelson first heard.

[@clemep]

I think very few people know that Townes Van Zandt wrote this...

[@reggiehall7612]

Seems to me that Townes lived a hard life. I'm grateful he gave us this before he departed.

[@caronmacisaac208]

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)

[@crz-impact3677]

That tasty little lick after Merle’s delivery of “now he’s growing old” gives me goosebumps 100% of the time

[@garryspowerpointpresentati6125]

took me weeks to learn it

[@mickeyphillips6603]

“Say a few for Lefty too. He only did what he had to do.” Those lines always give me goosebumps.

[@janetrevino8709]

Brings me to tears..

[@gracewomack4228]

...we are all getting old...those of us who are lucky enough...

[@mattmatt6572]

Get old or die trying... my grandfather always told me getting old ain't for sissies.

[@randybrewer2019]

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.

[@theleap2946]

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.

[@cinnamongirl7877]

This kind of music has saved me during this pandemic. Whoever reads this.....I hope you are safe and well. This too shall pass.

[@wbrobinson1]

I'm here brother. Semper Fi!

[@citytaxi1082]

👍👍👍👍

[@calvinsharp3346]

@@wbrobinson1 wp

[@stanleyweingart6361]

And I advere to this day; The best song ever written. Thank you, Towns van Zant for sharing your genius.

[@stanleyweingart6361]

@@wbrobinson1 I got your back, devil!

[@Mongo1940]

Rest In Peace Townes Van Zant who wrote this classic. He's in this video in several scenes. Great song writer.

[@ericloveday3647]

You got that right. He was Texas Bob Dylan

[@ericloveday3647]

Obviously Willie and Merle had great respect for him

[@randyelliott9152]

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

[@diannmabus5114]

But even better than Dylan.

[@eclecticmusica]

@@ericloveday3647 He was America's Bob Dylan. Dylan will tell you that.

[@kenmckinnell8153]

I get chills when Merle comes in toward the end.

[@powi3378]

Know what you mean...🎼🤥

[@ricktuit468]

A song that never gets old

[@robinschmidt6237]

Me too! Every time since I was a little girl 35 yrs ago.

[@wayne-lj4in]

Yes! Merle.. He can just nail stuff like no-one else. 03:50 ! :>)

[@Martin.Wilson]

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.

[@edwardsjohnpaul]

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.

[@gtfochimba]

Right?! He looked AT LEAST 70 here lol

[@Truerealism747]

​@@gtfochimbastrange and amazing how he hasn't that must since then in reality

[@christienelson1437]

But still young at heart.💕💕🙏

[@heathermilligan393]

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 ❤

[@lucas_almeida10]

People looked older by that time

[@davidgorka4315]

Anyone else get chills down their spine when Mearle starts singing halfway through?

[@bullferguson5668]

I am poncho

[@crunchie83]

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.

[@yourfriendalejo]

Yep! Loved his voice after hearing his first line. I think that’s what a good country voice sounds like.

[@caramelmonster4082]

💜

[@yosofunnybunny4623]

Yes I'm just now becoming a merle fan

[@darkeagle5836]

The legends are dying off and their sure as hell not being replaced.

[@jeslerish]

Check out hellbound glory..

[@BIGBLOCK5022006]

Unfortunately Charley Pride has gone to the other side today.

[@rogermullen6825]

so true

[@jonahmenikoff1997]

sturgill simpson, tyler childers, colter wall, jason isbell are doing their best!

[@darkeagle5836]

@@jonahmenikoff1997 In my opinion, they do not replace Merle Haggard, Johnny Cash, George Jones, Waylon Jennings etc...

[@gwenyffyr]

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😊

[@timmarkham1728]

Awesome

[@dvrn86]

You mean Townes Van Zant fans!

[@johnnystafford1826]

@@dvrn86 he has a cameo in here. Cool

[@dona6606]

Most impressive! You Rock!!!!!!!!!! Greetings from Thailand

[@brandonkitchen9229]

🇮🇱😀🇮🇱

[@Martin.Wilson]

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.

[@Rosemary-rh7nt]

That was the perfect explanation of this song......❤thank you......❤❤❤❤❤😊😊😊😊😊

[@noeldeal8087]

I seem to write poetry when I lose someone I love or when I'm really really hurt. Kinda just flows out...

[@javanautski]

Perfect gifts come from above - just have to be humble enough to receive this

[@paemtff9412]

💯%

[@davidsimmons5936]

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

[@SuperPresidentBeefbroth]

Im 19 and just started listening to Willie Nelson, Merle, the highway men etc. And it's the best music ive ever heard

[@mattblake9936]

me too man

[@susandufour8749]

Oh, i may need to adopt you as a musical grandson!

[@SuperPresidentBeefbroth]

@@susandufour8749 bettt

[@heyjack3184]

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.

[@UTCUTR]

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.

[@davidfailing6631]

listening to willie and merle in 2020 and its better than anything made today

[@gilbertb8078]

Best music to play.

[@tombryan1]

Google Circles

[@michaelfound9010]

So soul seeking country, makes my heart weep for this generation!! They never will experience music that moves you in such a way

[@AustinV1st]

... and it ain’t even close.

[@janetfox1968]

@@michaelfound9010 You got it right brother

[@rickhensley5963]

Now this song is real C&W music. Not the half-baked twangy bill shit of today.

[@charliewhite9777]

Check out Daryll Mc Call " the weeds outlived the roses " ( 1976)

[@JamesBond-ym2gv]

Your absolutely right 💯💪🤠

[@iwantmynametobeaslongaspos7194]

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

[@JimmyGelhaar]

Preach it!!

[@humbertohernandez3067]

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.

[@lethalchase1065]

19 from Oklahoma will play this song all my life

[@annoyedbrox4851]

​@@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.

[@travismiles5885]

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.

[@jbmusic4095]

@@lethalchase1065 lets fucking go brother, forever. keep it real and honour our ancestors

[@peytonledbetter6007]

Making it my mission to instill these masterpieces in my kids when I have some. A piece of you will live on with that.

[@kimwilson4140]

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.

[@laykaljos]

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.

[@harrya9479]

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.

[@jimsimonitch7614]

Only ‘Q’ can answer

[@jimmysteinbeck3391]

yeah I love how it just goes without being acknowledged

[@_TheMikeSmith]

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.

[@acemulligan7010]

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.

[@KartKrasher]

Listen to the original by townes van zandt

[@shanesantana54]

I'm with you brother! I'm still old school metal with Pantera, Metallica, Slayer and Motorhead.

[@ChollaRanch]

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.

[@Eclectic999]

🤘

[@mazrio128]

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.

[@jamesknutson8684]

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.

[@christiewood1458]

So sorry for your loss; may his memory be a blessing. 💙💚🙏🏼💚💙

[@tyler1671]

Chin up... this pain never goes away

[@Pietro7383]

You are fortune to have a dad who introduced you to music with deep messages!

[@gabefields8012]

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

[@stepinthyme1624]

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.

[@randomritchie]

Debatably one of the most iconic songs of true country music.

[@Johnnysthunder]

Never forget Townes Van Zandt, the genius that wrote this epic, epic song...

[@jimoliver535]

...and he's in this vid. :-D

[@alicelovell3905]

What a Genius Song writer!

[@JJX921]

Yes Sir. He wrote the best ballad in Country Music History.

[@brucebehner4142]

@@Jeffbambam no

[@kobebarka8633]

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.

[@mikeivey6504]

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.

[@gar949]

yes it is

[@Tsuma_Vento]

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.

[@Kontomanikos1964]

He is appearing in the video many times

[@jasonmcgarity971]

Townes at 1.01 in

[@DrawFlush]

Exactly! Credit needs to go to Van Zandt. Although this is a nice version, nothing compares kzbin.info/www/bejne/sKHVg41orKuEepY

[@minniesmomma6374]

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.

[@greglewis1146]

10,4

[@michaelhill56]

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...

[@timmarkham1728]

I agree

[@runyourrace2finish910]

I’m right there with you brother. We are here then we are gone.

[@k4door789]

Me too makes me cry ..

[@lisanowlin6123]

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.

[@bryonmollica]

I'm crying now

[@robertpuckett4346]

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

[@nickdarling9666]

@@robertpuckett4346who are you?

[@robertpuckett4346]

@@nickdarling9666 son of a motorcycle enthusiast and Harley rider, "The Iceman"

[@superpoacher6711]

I don't even know why I'm crying😂😂😂

[@frndofbear]

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.

[@sarashuff4840]

Well I want to believe they just disappeared . Like all the other so said bad guys. If so….

[@Bigdoglittle]

Racist.

[@kellyben7991]

Don't be a Hater.. the world has to much of that

[@frndofbear]

It was not racist at all. They thought it was great.

[@sergiomoya9769]

Not racist at all !!! It’s just like a beautiful coincidence!!! It’s happened to me !!!!

[@Flashback50s]

It is great to see Townes Van Zandt in several of the scenes as a different person each time.

[@luketdrifter2100]

First time I noticed him in the video. Agreed, very great to see

[@papajohnloki]

@@luketdrifter2100 yeah

[@bigsky1970]

Yep, he wrote this song.

[@dianefiske-foy4717]

There are only a few songs that give me goosebumps. This is one of them. Love the song and Willie and Merle 👏🏻❤️‼️

[@ptrain86]

Totally agree

[@shanemason7163]

Look up Jae Mason!! He was good as well!!

[@dianefiske-foy4717]

@@shanemason7163 … Thanks. I’ll check him out.

[@user-hu5on4nk3g]

Red knecks privilege

[@bryanlilly8876]

This video just takes you somewhere. Willie, And Merle. I love Willie, But when Merle kicks in, It gives me goose bumps. 🙂

[@drakehonest2]

Hello how are you doing today?

[@maxxxy79]

These two are at a minimum show what real country music is… the musics now a days isn’t rea country

[@lgr8280]

Honestly, how many times can one listen to this masterpiece and not get tired of it? Still counting.........

[@defaultlife3538]

Same

[@careful__Icarus]

Set on endless repeat friend and fade into it.

[@carolmcouture3422]

Disobedient Nomed it is a very nice song

[@stacyanderson5121]

For ever

[@stacyanderson5121]

@Disobedient Nomed q

[@Magoshowmedival]

I'll Forever love this song. R.I.P. Merle...

[@michaelbarnes9768]

So will I my grandfather's favorite song he's been gone for 12 years now and I still listen to it

[@jamespierce3652]

Antonio Ferreira Neto Ok thanks

[@davebunch5493]

Antonio Ferreira Neto RIP Merle!!!!

[@jpb1231000]

And Townes..

[@paulmartinez2475]

I will too.

[@bradyray4063]

This is my all time favorite song. I’ve often told my family that I want it played at my funeral.

[@wyattsassomevideosareviews2722]

I'm make Shore we play wap for you

[@jmgack1]

Same here

[@Butchsiek]

Hard to imagine, Willie has been in Music for 83 years.. 67 Professionally . First song he wrote at the age of 7.

[@shanewoods1980]

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

[@themersh4064]

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!

[@danhansen4855]

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.

[@wallacesykes8130]

I sure did I miss my dad& the good olday's

[@duke6961]

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.

[@waynetincup5877]

And marty mostly. My dad's favorite. Mine too

[@TheSubygirl]

My dad in a nutshell. I miss you dad. I hope you're surrounded by your dogs and heaven has good fishing.

[@jackmorgan5687]

Hello,how are you doing?

[@AP-nx6xo]

👍🏻

[@plarddaniel5137]

Les animaux sont interdits au ciel.

[@ricklong3260]

I'm on my way I'll meet you at the old fishing hole. Rick

[@deleriom]

Me too brother, I'm hoping for peace for you and your dad.

[@LOVECOUNTRYMUSIC]

This is one of the best duets in history. 👏🏻❤‼

[@luluwinke6581]

yo major repeat

[@JAH7113]

Dolly and Kenny... Islands 🏝️

[@donnharris3223]

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.

[@alanmcneill2407]

Very, very well said. I hope you write other things.

[@Martin-mp4iq]

respect to willie and merle for including townes in the video

[@marcusg503]

Totally agree!

[@betsareoff]

Yes. The author of the song. Cool

[@phillipgeorge4278]

Respect to townes for including them you mean

[@lindsaygulley2689]

Thank you.

[@Martin-mp4iq]

@@phillipgeorge4278 true ;D

[@jrad1593]

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.

[@klaire1058]

He’ll remember it for life

[@dianachester8106]

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!"

[@ldaick2358]

An old soul✌️🥺

[@douglasanderson542]

Keep your eye on that boy he’s going places fast🤠

[@gabrielahales8125]

thats the people we need these days, and forget about life for awhile

[@m.g.n4898]

Ah, Townes Van Zandt - what an amazing writer! Always goosebumps.

[@kp7502]

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.

[@paulruiz4518]

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!!!

[@gwyngriffiths3669]

@@paulruiz4518 The writer of the song Townes Van Zandt specifically said the song was NOT about Pancho Villa

[@paulruiz4518]

@gwyngriffiths3669 that's correct? But I said "Similarities" Not the same?

[@azul_6.5-cf7dm]

@@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.

[@paulruiz4518]

​@azul_6.5-cf7dm That's Absolutely True!!.....

[@traininglime5559]

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.

[@mmartin7483]

I agree 100% with you. No screaming no swearing and they didn't need to be half naked to make a Hit!

[@wyattpetersen4532]

Mainstream country died when Bush left office

[@leftyo9589]

amen! bro country sucks!!!

[@TheAncientTale]

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.

[@Anonymous_joe445]

@@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

[@redstateforever]

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.

[@thepianist7084]

I've thought that for years. That entry of Merle is just....

[@bradleymartin4896]

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?"

[@jamesmarol2031]

Yeah he sure did, like San Quentin!

[@mariegaunt1278]

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

[@JimmyRaeGarland]

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 💐🌹🪻🪷

[@dmreynolds3971]

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.

[@jeremybilbee9451]

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.

[@chiefwork1790]

Yep willie’s voice is pretty underrated

[@chiefwork1790]

Are you a big fan of his?

[@yuvettealbright9441]

This is the best ever

[@docasbroadway9049]

I also love the way he sings and it gives me memories to the good old days anway how are you doing?

[@dutchwolf5110]

This was my father's favorite song may he rest in peace

[@gavo6240]

Ya I don't know him but RIP

[@zig-zagman5073]

I karaoked this song with my dad makes me cry everytime

[@mariocosio885]

May your father rest in peace

[@patbrennan6572]

Your daddy had good taste Dutch..

[@shannonritter3576]

Same. Exact same. Everytime I hear this song, I feel that lump gather in my throat and tell myself not to cry.

[@randyjohnson2936]

One of the best ever written" thank you you boys ❤

[@jonmyers8046]

I remember when this song came out. It was constantly being played over and over. The song and video are masterpieces, and these two are legendary 👍

[@davidtucker2380]

Thank you for growing up in a time when men were men.

[@garymacpherson7355]

Towns Van Zandt wrote this Willy and Merl do a great job.

[@Eldooodarino]

I didn't learn about it until Willie and Merle did it 11 years after it came out. I don't have much excuse either. As I was in and out of Austin from 74 until 90. I'd heard of Townes but there were so many great musicians in Austin in those days it was hard to keep up. Maybe he was in Nashville my early Austin years. I distinctly remember riding in the back of a pickup and some guy telling me about Townes but I don't think I ever saw him live. Towne's life was truly tragic. I can't help but wonder how much his brilliance was due to his mental illness and how much was in spite of it.

[@imperiallegacy]

@@garymacpherson7355 townes

[@regdavies5737]

This song was also recorded by Emmy Lou Harris. It was her version that Willie Nelson first heard and inspired him to record it.

[@brt-jn7kg]

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

[@user-jk5fg6pi6e]

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.❤

[@SNBoomer4ever]

❤ 91 is a long-lived life. I hope you find comfort in that and take care of yourself. Your mom is resting well.

[@danlogan5657]

sorry for your loss

[@user-jk5fg6pi6e]

@@danlogan5657 Thank youGod bless you.

[@charlie81980]

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.

[@kristalxleigh07]

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.

[@gabefields8012]

Sorry for your loss.. thank God for solid parents/grandparents. There is not enough of them anymore

[@playinem121]

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.

[@playinem121]

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.

[@johnslaughter3806]

God bless Grandpa

[@alvinwoods639]

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..

[@dookey71]

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!

[@mepayne651]

I like the way you think.

[@lawnmowermanTX]

Epic.Comment. Ever!

[@ediliocantu7954]

One of my favorite songs never tired of it can listen to it all day long

[@dvrn86]

Merle's voice is like pulling on a warm jacket on a cold day.

[@bionicman6969]

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.

[@jamesbaggett7223]

That mournful tone in Willie's voice always gives me chills

[@nickmerrick18]

How many times can I love this song?, Infinite. LOVE

[@staylofordo7111]

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!

[@betsyboneshaker2204]

Oh my, they both sing like angels on this song. They really nailed it. Thank you, Townes.

[@JamesSmith-wf1pd]

I Guess you're a country MUSIC lover?

[@jonsebastian4823]

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

[@JamesSmith-wf1pd]

@@jonsebastian4823 oh really?

[@wickedvivid75]

Townes was beautiful and so are Haggard and Nelson.

[@anelladambrosio2513]

@George Dave ciao George!come stai?🙋🥰😍😊😘

[@machtschnell7452]

The cameos by Townes are a nice touch, but definitely listen to his solo version. Absolutely killer.

[@0228christian]

The original is the far superior version... which is really saying something when this version is so good.

[@SJ-ni6iy]

Seeing Townes in the background is my favorite part of the video. A beautifully written song, made even better by the legends singing it.❤

[@raymondclifton1238]

Possibly one of the best songs of all time. Lyrics, vocals, and producing, spot on!

[@INGSOCinfo]

God Bless Merle Haggard. You are missed!

[@stevenpdxedu]

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]

pasa get down dena or in my neighborhood, stinkadena

[@karbide3084]

@@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.

[@docasbroadway9049]

it makes me remember alot

[@jameshurst5378]

Hello Steven, how are you doing today it’s nice to meet you here 😊

[@robertryan2542]

Pure magic. From Ireland.

[@rperez2608]

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.

[@williamthomas7534]

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.

[@thatkidthatkid2075]

Beautiful I love this well done ❤

[@mlafeverphd]

Right on about Townes Van Zandt - had to do a double take the first time I saw it.

[@jeffreyl.wiseman2597]

Very sad we will never have music like this again. Seems like everyday we lose another good one.

[@Mark-um5hc]

We do, true. Maybe people like you and me can write songs. Make it a hobby, if you don't know how to play guitar, or write songs. Never too late. Or, learn how to play these kind of songs.

[@chadwagerle6986]

Couldn’t of spoke truer words!!!

[@jonhohensee3258]

@@chadwagerle6986 - Couldn't have

[@jonhohensee3258]

Jeffrey - That is such a cliché.

[@arlenebowers326]

Loved this song when I first heard it by Merle and Willie and am still loving it in 2023. Great musicians and music remain great.

[@EddyArnold-xl7rn]

Thanks 😊 so much for the love and support you have showed me for years now…Are you one of my great fans out there ?

[@leahharris5]

❤. Rest In Peace 🕊️🕊️. Merle Haggard ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@bobballard387]

willie nelson is still alive in 2019 rip merle haggard

[@wadeatkinson4766]

Would love to meet Willie "if" he ever passes...God Bless Willie

[@gemegeme3904]

What ever happened to Country music. This is it to the finest

[@wagzel]

It's hard to find a Townes Van Zandt.

[@danielrecio6848]

Diversity is not that that great

[@scottanderson63]

There is no country music, anymore. It 'country hip-hop".

[@Revivethefallen]

Real country is gone my friend

[@Covey7342]

Daniel Goemaat Nah it’s still around, it’s just not mainstream though, you’re not gonna hear it on the radio.

[@steveschecter3710]

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.

[@escaped1534]

... escaped a few Federales (like me, see name!), huh?!

[@zeekettete]

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.

[@poundsofpressurebmx5019]

Out of kindness suppose .❤

[@rudygaona5657]

Willie Nelson is a national treasure! He's did it all !!!!

[@tylerkant9085]

Hello there 🌹

[@buckeyeman7631]

I grew up with great country music just like this...the 70's and 80's in America was a great time to grow up in!

[@billygomez4073]

We'll never see days like those again

[@ronniefrutschi2011]

I took part of the late 60’s, 70’s and 80’s. Born in 65 . And trust me my Friend this Shit, rock , country, etc.,etc., sucks

[@timeriksen6782]

These Gentlemen are fantastic legends some still alive some have gone to rest unfortunately. But there music will always love on . Thanks guys and gals RIP

[@denedg]

​@@timeriksen6782 I hope you didn't miss a great miss a great decade of country classics from the 60s.

[@kingcolt8526]

Ugh i wish I was around :(

[@davidjoiner7302]

Songs like this inspired “who’s gonna fill their shoes” and “are you sure Hank done it this way. Today’s country music doesn’t even compare.

[@APerson-jm4mn]

Damn right

[@cameronm2877]

Colter Wall

[@marcussmith9804]

Agreed

[@yosofunnybunny4623]

I'm 58 and I just recently discovered "are you sure hank did it this way" and lonesome ornery and mean!!!

[@MegaJustGeorge]

Not by a long shot, David.

[@themotofixery]

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.

[@Octaviamorris77]

Merle made this song….epic and the best ever! We love you Merle

[@brittneyhaynes3786]

This was my dads favorite song. Makes me miss him so much

[@branon6565]

Merle Haggard was the greatest singer/song writer country music has seen, I doubt there'll ever be another country artist to come close to matching that man's talent and ability levels...he was incredible....rest easy Hag, and thank you for all of the fantastic music you wrote, and the music you only put your voice and musical talents to.....

[@mrHoppedupford]

Hank Williams, Hank Williams Jr, Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, George Jones were all better.

[@srfotog]

@@mrHoppedupford Bull

[@jerund]

@@mrHoppedupford Show me the math on that. Point being, it is all subjective. What you may have meant is you like these folks more, but I'm not sure that makes Branon wrong. Personally I think the guy who wrote this song was pretty amazing himself but I don't feel the need to rank him against anyone else. I just enjoy it.

[@wjack4728]

One of my very favorite albums. Never get tired of listening to it.

[@Illinois-Wildlife-Encounters]

I remember when this came out, flooded the radios....my gosh, what GOLD it was then, and it is NOW....amazing...timeless...

[@gypsyfiresign1064]

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.

[@musek5048]

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

[@kennethbrown4474]

I bawl my eyes out missing my parents to this song.

[@conradbouffard1532]

One of my favorites been playing it for over thirty years just love it love betsy 🙏❤️🙏

[@TallnLankee]

Anybody else's eyes get watery listening to this?

[@bryanblack526]

Every time

[@stacygraham6865]

I do im listen to it right now ,my mom always loved this song ,and she will be leaving soon ,shes a fighter love you mom ,i hate cancer sry brother n sister stopped helping us

[@TallnLankee]

@@stacygraham6865 God bless 🙏. I'm fortunate and blessed to still have my mother. Embrace every moment with her

[@Rosemary-rh7nt]

All the time........goodnight to all ....

[@henryaitchison2687]

@@bryanblack526 Yep!

[@mcpheonixx]

One of my dads favorite songs! Rest easy dad, I'll be seeing you soon enough!

[@alexmorris5028]

Holy Shit! I was today years old when I discovered Towns Van Zandt is in this video!! He wrote the song and is one of the greatest Country singers ever, may he RIP.

[@jomorgannz]

This song is an earworm for me at the moment

[@Thc14Me]

You are not alone.

[@Thc14Me]

And it's still there. At least I'll know the words if I ever try to sing this karaoke when drunk.......again.

[@simonseymour8879]

I've loved this song since childhood, now I'm 39 and still can't get enough of it. It was on a duet compilation album called half nelson and it's the first song on the album. My nana bought it on cassette tape and 6 year old me kept taking a loan of it. I'm pleased to own the fab album on vinyl and cd now 😎

[@cameron5304]

Merle should've been the 5th highwayman!

[@manhattangoldbar9143]

He would have fit right in with those campers..

[@justinmiller6291]

They asked him to be he told them no because "after you split it five ways there won't be enough money to pay for the fun"

[@rickythurman525]

Glow Keepy

[@willbrennan3423]

I agree with this u are very right

[@TMB247]

Highwaymen... Saw them in Concert ... Best Concert EVER ... If Merle were there as well ... I'd have probably not made it home that night, as it was, it took a half an hour to find our car and the one hour trip home took almost three.

[@JimFoster]

One of the greatest songs and performances of all time.

[@07z51]

I could listen to this non stop forever. This is real country music.

[@codyjonesjr1614]

Listening to this with my son since he was a baby, he always smiled he is almost 7 now, some say you could have it anyway , but this is the day I know I did it the right way

[@harold6603]

Sure is better than the junk they call music today

[@ericbarrone4130]

I've listened to repeatedly drunkenly til my gf had to stop me several times...lol song is genius with perfection

[@EddyArnold-xl7rn]

Thanks 😊 so much for the love and support you have showed me for years now…Are you one of my great fans out there ?

[@jaydee0187]

​@@ericbarrone4130 I'm currently doing the same thing lol

[@jamesclark4927]

My opinion is this is the best version. 👌

[@Insignificatos]

God this is Beautiful. Special, beyond special. Meaningful, beyond meaningful. Townes you found it.

[@carolyaster5466]

This song is so beautiful and haunting. Willie and Merle are amazing.

[@Insignificatos]

Excellent comment

[@carolyaster5466]

@4Q2 smith What a song. How sad. How beautiful. Thank you for suggesting it. TVZ wrote songs made of lightning and tears.

[@salvadormartinez5356]

Absolutely beautiful and amazing, Hi how are you doing?

[@danmorris4375]

I grew up listening to this music 🎶 I love the Cowboy songs that tell you a story AN win your sitting in a bar having a cold BEER 🍺 with all your follow MARNIES AN YOU just smile 😃 OOHRAH to all USMC BROTHER's

[@donnycalvert2608]

This is true country music. The 50's, 60's and 70's were so simple. And such a wide verity of good simple songs. Since the 80's country music is just not even close.

[@balerjohnson3099]

I miss those days ...Young Willie and Merle

[@davesilverman3325]

Me, too.

[@americanhighlander3448]

Before Willie was a liberal snowflake.

[@mattsowder2230]

And Townes, the writer of the song in the video. Awesome video