About the Song
A Tribute to a Legend: “The King Is Gone (So Are You)” by The Highwaymen
The Highwaymen, a supergroup consisting of country music legends Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, Kris Kristofferson, and Johnny Cash, released their debut album in 1985. Among the album’s standout tracks is “The King Is Gone (So Are You),” a poignant tribute to Elvis Presley, who died in 1977.
The song begins with a mournful guitar riff, setting the tone for a somber reflection on Presley’s passing. The lyrics are filled with emotion and respect, as the Highwaymen mourn the loss of a friend and a musical icon. They recall Presley’s impact on their own careers, as well as his influence on popular music as a whole.
The song’s chorus is particularly poignant, with the lines “The king is gone, so are you/And we miss you, Elvis” echoing the sentiments of countless fans around the world. The Highwaymen’s harmonies are both powerful and comforting, conveying a sense of shared grief and collective remembrance.
The song’s production is also noteworthy, with its sparse instrumentation and stark vocals creating a haunting and evocative atmosphere. The song’s tempo gradually slows down as it progresses, adding to the sense of melancholy and reflection.
Overall, “The King Is Gone (So Are You)” is a beautiful and moving tribute to Elvis Presley. It captures the essence of his legacy and the lasting impact he had on the music industry. The song is a testament to the power of music to bring people together and to commemorate the lives of those we love and admire.
Additional Notes:
- “The King Is Gone (So Are You)” was written by Waylon Jennings and Kris Kristofferson.
- The song was released as a single from The Highwaymen’s debut album in 1985.
- The song peaked at No. 14 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart.
- The song has been covered by numerous artists, including Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, and Kenny Chesney.
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