Real music. Real talent. Self taught. Today it is just manufactured garbage. Just a bunch of little punks who watched too much T.V. and too much MTV. This man sang most of his concerts for very little money. That is the mark of a true musician. Now days just go to hollywood and let them give you some crappy manufactured songs to sing with computers that correct every minor error so you can get on a big label, make your' millions and then disappear into obscurity. Justin Bieber comes to mind.
nightshadedesign, Townes and Dylan are both amazing song writers, and Steve Earls story is great, thanks for the story. At first listen I liked Willie's version better, but the polish and orchestration that makes it radio worthy doesn't belong on this song and actually detracts from the true feel of the song that Townes so perfectly inflects.
This is beautiful. Music has moved in a much different direction than this these days but that's alright. Things always are changing. This songs reflects a sentiment of a time period. That lifestyle has faded away and to try and repeat it would be unreal. But I damn sure miss it.
Great song by a great song-writer, but Willie & Merle made it their own. Like Kris Kristofferson, you listen to Townes Van Sandt for the songs, but it's often best when great singers perform his music. Still, nice to have his version here. (I love Emmylou, too, but this one is Willie & Merle's, as long as you listen to a version before Willie started rushing his lines so much.
I didn`t know, that he wrote this excellent sad song. A girl in Berlin gave me the informations. That` s why I love and play here in Switzerland so many American Folk Songs.
Many talented people recorded this song & not a single one of them came close to Townes Van Zandt,that man could have just read the lyrics and still have been 10 times better than anyone else,more soul than Stax or Motown.
It was my good fortune to see Van Zandt many times in Austin before his untimely death. I will always remember him as one of the greatest song writers ever to come out of Austin. He was a poet (muse) in the truest sense of the word. Miss you, Townes.
I love this song best of all his songs. I think it's so sad most people don't know he wrote it. One of the best songs ever written and he didn't get credit for it. Most people think Willie or Merle wrote it. Yes, Townes had his demons, really most musicians do. I guess it's the life. His family is keeping his memory alive through his website. Godspeed, Townes.
I just want to know what the 5 morons who disliked this think is worthy. This is brilliance. So what if Townes had some demons. His muse worked overtime.
@tbob29sm Steve Earle once said "Townes Van Zandt is the best songwriter in the whole world and I'll stand on Bob Dylan's coffee table in my cowboy boots and say that. Van Zandt heard this and dryly replied ""I've met Bob Dylan's bodyguards and if Steve Earle thinks he can stand on Bob Dylan's coffee table, he's sadly mistaken."
i dont care if the people at the bar hate country, i play this great original version every time i go, i just have to steal the remote so the bartender cant skip the song lol
I still perform this song live from time to time, and every time I do, I make damned sure everybody knows this is a Townes song. No disrespect to Nelson/Haggard, but God forbid we forget Townes Van Zandt.
@killerpantz. Best thing is to interpret the song your way. Townes was pretty ambiguous about the song himself. I think it's a more straightforward sell-out for cash, where he got the bread to go there ain't nobody knows. Only did what he had to do. Maybe everybody needs a betrayer, Jesus had his Judas, Pancho had his Lefty. Sacred, profane, our time comes to us all.
@TheDTHill thank you for the response, for real. i had an honest question and got an honst answer from someone, regarless if its right or not, i got a "human" resoponse. thanks for not tearing me up. :)
In 1977, I hitchhiked around Ireland and England with a great friend of mine, Brett. Back when you could catch a ride if you were lucky. We both had our guitars and got lots of pints and smokes for playing this song together in pubs. Great memories; great song.
I used to perform this song (not nearly with the soul he has) for many years in New Mexico....at The Range. I had the priviledge of having seen Townes perfom this song at McCabes in Santa Monica several decades ago....what a great example of a true individual performer....no compromise (hear that all you "pop artists"? DownHill Phil
mistascott007, I love that story. Karaoke is great ( I do it myself) and even better that we have TVZ songs to choose from. Thanks for your great comments.
Wonderful stuff, I had a friend who was in apredicament like this! I saw Rodney Crowell a few years ago and he said that this song is recognized in Europe very well!
Thanks so much for this. I've been looking for this song since I was 10, I heard it on a country radio but as English is not my first language, I never knew how to find it again, I just knew remembered the words "kindness I suppose". Internet allowed me to research among country songs and to discover a lot of beautiful songs most of the people will never stumble upon.
I once sang this song with a buddy of mine at karaoke. A German couple visiting the US came up to us barely speaking English and wanted to know what song it was and who wrote it. They said it was one of the most beautiful songs they had ever heard. That right there shows you how powerful this song is. It could be the best song ever written.
@mistascott007 you should have just said something like listen to the song. This song is great because it blood, sweat, tears, and soul. Not because some germans liked it because you sang it.
I have fond memories of listening to Willie & Merle's version of this song with my Dad when I was a child. My Dad passed away last year and I sometimes like to listen to that song, remembering the good times with him. Today I decided to listen to this version; The original. This version is better. The cadence to his voice seems softer and that haunting violin gives the song a completely different feel. More sincere in a way. Either one will always remind of Dad. Thank you TVZ for this song. RIP
@LookerQQ4 Sorry, but while Willie and Waylon did a lot of tunes together, this one was Willie and Merle. Just search it on YouTube if you don't believe me.
@holymackerel013 Hey to you holy...first version I heard was EmmylouHarris while livin' out in Cental Valley California gave me goosebumps...and out there in the dry heat I could feel my breath as hard as kerosene. Then I heard Willie and Merle's version, now this...all real nice...may your memories of your Dad always be good and true...
My take on the cryptic lyrics: Pancho embodies greatness which is greatly admired and sung of by his personal troubadour Lefty. Pancho's greatness is envied by the Federales who brag they "let" him get away. But Lefty, too, eventually becomes envious of Pancho's greatness, and he turns him in to the Federales out of jealousy and flees for Ohio.
Most of us aren't Pancho, most of us are Lefty, left to wallow in our shame; but the author's compassion for Lefty is moving.
Steve Earle, and I'll be misquoting this badly, said that "Townes is the greatest American songwriter ever. And I'll stand on Bob Dylan's coffee table in my cowboy boots and say that." It's a sentiment I can readily agree with.
@whichbit I'll say this. I will never speak ill of Dylan. It's not in me to do so. But me? I'll carry on what Steve said at first. I don't want to split hairs or offend anyone. Personal taste, and all, but Townes reaches down and grabs my heart in a way Bob never actually did. No offense to no one.
@BrooklynJackBlue - They both were able to write and sing about the things they saw around them in a way not many ever have. They both expressed themselves perfectly at times, which is difficult to do and all we can ask of a great artist. To me, Townes more broken hearted about the world around him. I personally relate more to the broken-hearted folks because I am one myself. But I'm a fan of both and would not insult either of them by placing a number next to their name on a list.
@mrkalashnikov dude even though nobody got no soul in him, i agree with you about that in the case of Van Zandt's songs,but this is one of his sillier happy songs... compered to the rest.
@mrkalashnikov - Just discovered fully how talented and beautiful this man was. Having a great time listening to his music whilst walking my dog. He will never be forgotten by people who love and seek out good music. R.I.P Mr Townes Van Zandt.
I was lucky enough to see TVZ perform at the Childe Harold in DC in 1980. He put on a decent show... self depecarting humor and bad jokes between songs and a superb set list. This is one song that will always be in my set list when I perform.
I met Townes at the Edmonton Folk Fest in the 90's, we talked for about 20 minutes. He was truely a fine person and his music will last forever. He was the symbol of singer/songwriters everywhere and lived the life to prove it.
A few years ago Steve Earle played at the Edm. Folk Fest and his entire show was dedicated to Townes Van Zandt. It was very touching.
I would love to see Townes' son JTVZ play at the same Fest some day
Been into Townes for three decades or so - even saw him live once- and there's very few his songs that I haven't rated as highly as the others. Must admit that despite its enduring popularity this was one of those. Changed my mind now though.
Pancho and Lefty are the same person. It's about growing up, and having to leave things behind. And looking back with nostalgia, and pride, and sadness, at who you used to be.
Pancho needs your prayers its true, but save a few for Lefty too. He just did what he had to do....
Listening to this song I can almost smell dust in the air rising from the hooves of horses. This man shaped music and american culture with his poetry and is a reminder to me, a Marine on deployment, what I and my brothers fight for daily. God bless America. Thank you Van, wherever you are for giving us your music, heart, and hope. Oohrahhh.
The most beautiful sound I have ever heard. Used to eavesdrop on my dad singing this song by himself when I was a wee young'n, running around the house on my stick/horse thing pretending I was Lefty or Pancho, I can't remember. It plays through my mind every day, but having it at my finger tips is even better. Thanks.
great melody, but the story is legend!!! the words paint a vivid picture of the life hes singing about!!!! if very rare that words come to life,,,ya thats it!!!
The first Townes song i every heard was Marie which was so amazing i have since become a big fan and this song is just as amazing...Townes deserved much more acclaim than he got while alive. He wont be forgotten and either will his music.
The real tragedy? My father has over a thousand country and western records. He came name people and songs and bands from as far back as the 1920's. He's never heard of Townes Van Zandt.
it is very disappointing that the original artist receives LESS views of his performance of his own song than numerous COVERS of his song....while I appreciate the Steve Earle, Willie Nelson/Merle Haggard , Emmylou Harris and Bob Dylan covers I can not help but wish the people who viewed those covers of famous artists would have took the time to listen to the original artist perform his own song in the manner and with the emotion he intended
I mean seriously, why did willie and merle think they could improve on this?
All they did was add a more poppy chorus to it. The way townes sings this matches teh words better and to me is much more artistic.
Guess willie and merle new gold when they saw it. To bad there are not more artist like this anymore. Artist that sing TRUELY from the heart and not for the GOLD.
@LovetheVayne Many great artists show their respect and admiration for each other by doing their songs. Townes Van Zandt did the same with Dead Flowers, the whole album that song was on was cover songs. It's a great sign of respect
@LovetheVayne i agree with that. this guy was an American original, this moves me way more than Willy's version...wonder if It has anything to do with the fact that its was Townes' song? The Tom Petty Fan Machine should listen to this songwriter-singer. just amazing how quantity equates quality. I got drubbed by the Tom Petty Fan club, because I just don't think he has really written anything that interesting, lyrically for sure...I know it is so subjective. But is Toby Keith a talent?
For anyone that dismisses country music as shallow and banal I reccomend you take the Townes Van Zandt challenge. Listen to "Techumseh Valley" , "To Live is to Fly", "Waitin Around to Die", and his cover of "Dead Flowers". You will come away with a greater understanding of a powerful music form, one that is essentially American, and gain insight into the human condition.
But i tried to listen Tucemsah Valley due to thebannie advice and that one seems to me weak and mediocre-TVZ genius sleeps on Tuc Valley to tell the truth
@URProductions The only song? Give a listen to "The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald". Sailors and landlubbers alike tear up over that. Remember - those were real men who died that night. Johnny Horton's song, "The Hood". Again, real men, good men, whose bones still lie on the bottom of the ocean. Dig around among the older songs, the classics. There are plenty of songs that should bring a tear to your eye. Not all songs are written by empty headed celebrities.
I have listen to this song for almost 2 weeks now. I listen everyday to this and tecumseh valley and to live's to fly. I am just mesmerized at down beat minor key feel to this music.
Townes seemed to have lived a troubled life. Unable to make to many ppl happy with him or his choices in life. I think his music is a reflection. His characters never seem to be able to satisfy the viewers/listeners.
This is much deeper music then i think most ppl realize...to me atleast.
GBNF
xXSpyHunter007Xx 5 days ago
Something about Townes version that cuts to the bone.
SmokindaBlues 1 week ago
Real music. Real talent. Self taught. Today it is just manufactured garbage. Just a bunch of little punks who watched too much T.V. and too much MTV. This man sang most of his concerts for very little money. That is the mark of a true musician. Now days just go to hollywood and let them give you some crappy manufactured songs to sing with computers that correct every minor error so you can get on a big label, make your' millions and then disappear into obscurity. Justin Bieber comes to mind.
Nsaishie 1 week ago in playlist Favorite videos
nightshadedesign, Townes and Dylan are both amazing song writers, and Steve Earls story is great, thanks for the story. At first listen I liked Willie's version better, but the polish and orchestration that makes it radio worthy doesn't belong on this song and actually detracts from the true feel of the song that Townes so perfectly inflects.
tbob29sm 1 week ago
This is beautiful. Music has moved in a much different direction than this these days but that's alright. Things always are changing. This songs reflects a sentiment of a time period. That lifestyle has faded away and to try and repeat it would be unreal. But I damn sure miss it.
oldsoul247 1 week ago
so deep man so meaningful
13Geffen 2 weeks ago
Hey Sartorious56 I liked the coffee table comment the first time, when I read it in Steve Earle's biography!
DarrellMarsh100 2 weeks ago
Heard a halting version of this done by the Scottish balladeer, Dick Gaughan. It's on "Redwood Cathedral", 1996.
akryeguy 1 month ago
Surely miss TVZ. One of the best song writers this world has known.
TheBluesDixonary 1 month ago
I love this song. Maybe one of the greatest ever written.
foredeck100 1 month ago 2
Great song by a great song-writer, but Willie & Merle made it their own. Like Kris Kristofferson, you listen to Townes Van Sandt for the songs, but it's often best when great singers perform his music. Still, nice to have his version here. (I love Emmylou, too, but this one is Willie & Merle's, as long as you listen to a version before Willie started rushing his lines so much.
henricusregius 1 month ago
This has been flagged as spam show
Shut up and enjoy the music!
JuanOlmedo3rd 2 months ago
Shut up and enjoy the music!
JuanOlmedo3rd 2 months ago
I didn`t know, that he wrote this excellent sad song. A girl in Berlin gave me the informations. That` s why I love and play here in Switzerland so many American Folk Songs.
clues46 2 months ago
Many talented people recorded this song & not a single one of them came close to Townes Van Zandt,that man could have just read the lyrics and still have been 10 times better than anyone else,more soul than Stax or Motown.
skl31 2 months ago 2
It was my good fortune to see Van Zandt many times in Austin before his untimely death. I will always remember him as one of the greatest song writers ever to come out of Austin. He was a poet (muse) in the truest sense of the word. Miss you, Townes.
1polonium210 2 months ago 6
horse was fast as polished steel..Fuckin Brilliant..
eurotrash5150 3 months ago
I love this song best of all his songs. I think it's so sad most people don't know he wrote it. One of the best songs ever written and he didn't get credit for it. Most people think Willie or Merle wrote it. Yes, Townes had his demons, really most musicians do. I guess it's the life. His family is keeping his memory alive through his website. Godspeed, Townes.
sheilaowens55 3 months ago
Townes paints the truth and was truly..truly an Artist among Artists !
jaxareback 3 months ago
This is what country music was meant to be.
luketdrifter2100 3 months ago
I love how he sings "iron". Willie Nelson does the same thing..."ire'n."
rainbowmuppet 3 months ago
It just doesn't get any better than this
Ive heard it so many times but every time it just gets better
2members 3 months ago
I've always believed that "less is more," and this song just proves that. Perfection.
AulusMaros 3 months ago
Bryan Kravos is a good guy.
JonathanStrayer 4 months ago
I just want to know what the 5 morons who disliked this think is worthy. This is brilliance. So what if Townes had some demons. His muse worked overtime.
misha1o1 4 months ago
love the simple pureness of Townes.
tbob29sm 4 months ago in playlist townes 4
@tbob29sm Steve Earle once said "Townes Van Zandt is the best songwriter in the whole world and I'll stand on Bob Dylan's coffee table in my cowboy boots and say that. Van Zandt heard this and dryly replied ""I've met Bob Dylan's bodyguards and if Steve Earle thinks he can stand on Bob Dylan's coffee table, he's sadly mistaken."
nightshadedesign 1 week ago
This guy is great!
larrythelurker 4 months ago
Thank you for posting this, townesfan10.
writersblock26 4 months ago
always listened to this by willy and merle---wow the original is awesome!
chabeworks 4 months ago
Willie and Merle did this song justice,, but no one can touch the original. Bless you, Townes Van Zandt.
mac231208 5 months ago 2
I Don't think Townes sang this song for all you @#$%^%*$ to sit and act like children on youtube. So SHUT UP AND LISTEN...
LukaszKrolak 5 months ago 2
A Genius who could not stop laying and writing until he died reaching fer his guitar for one more song.
sirwolfgang 5 months ago
Townes wrote it notmuch70.
jbird3201 5 months ago
willie Nelson sings this song better.
notmuch70 5 months ago
i dont care if the people at the bar hate country, i play this great original version every time i go, i just have to steal the remote so the bartender cant skip the song lol
GETkrunkBEOTCH 6 months ago
I still perform this song live from time to time, and every time I do, I make damned sure everybody knows this is a Townes song. No disrespect to Nelson/Haggard, but God forbid we forget Townes Van Zandt.
oliverwren1 6 months ago
Is it legal to dislike this?
cheez412 6 months ago
@cheez412 yes, it is. TVZ is one of the greatest and this song is one of his finest...
fozmanOU869 5 months ago
Is it legal to dislike this?
cheez412 6 months ago
I lament that there are such good songs as these. This is one to really savor.
tusculum30 6 months ago
@killerpantz. Best thing is to interpret the song your way. Townes was pretty ambiguous about the song himself. I think it's a more straightforward sell-out for cash, where he got the bread to go there ain't nobody knows. Only did what he had to do. Maybe everybody needs a betrayer, Jesus had his Judas, Pancho had his Lefty. Sacred, profane, our time comes to us all.
bargeemike 6 months ago
Great songs of course
onijdes 6 months ago
Yes thank you TVZ....
ctdraper2 6 months ago
this may sound like a stupid question but did Lefty sell Pancho out to the feds?
killerpantz 6 months ago
@killerpantz I think they were going to kill the family if he didn't co-operate. "That's why he did what he had to do."
TheDTHill 6 months ago
@TheDTHill thank you for the response, for real. i had an honest question and got an honst answer from someone, regarless if its right or not, i got a "human" resoponse. thanks for not tearing me up. :)
killerpantz 6 months ago
i grew up in chicago,emmigrated to TX.good thing
sm0kindatg00d 6 months ago
Great song, Great sound-thanks.
DANLEO5 6 months ago
First time I've heard this version...it's my favorite. Great wailing fiddle.
This compared to the covers reminds me of John Prine. John & Townes tell the story, others just sing the songs.
Bamaboompa 7 months ago
In 1977, I hitchhiked around Ireland and England with a great friend of mine, Brett. Back when you could catch a ride if you were lucky. We both had our guitars and got lots of pints and smokes for playing this song together in pubs. Great memories; great song.
demassa 7 months ago
I want this song played at my funeral. Just this one. Thats how much I love this song. The fiddle..the story..his voice..it's just epic.
laurastillriver 7 months ago
I used to perform this song (not nearly with the soul he has) for many years in New Mexico....at The Range. I had the priviledge of having seen Townes perfom this song at McCabes in Santa Monica several decades ago....what a great example of a true individual performer....no compromise (hear that all you "pop artists"? DownHill Phil
lungflogger9 7 months ago
Love that fiddle in there!
TruegrassBoy 8 months ago
mistascott007, I love that story. Karaoke is great ( I do it myself) and even better that we have TVZ songs to choose from. Thanks for your great comments.
robtuohy1 8 months ago
speechless, every time i listen to this song.....
nick40nick40 8 months ago
Wonderful stuff, I had a friend who was in apredicament like this! I saw Rodney Crowell a few years ago and he said that this song is recognized in Europe very well!
borntrippin 8 months ago
Thanks so much for this. I've been looking for this song since I was 10, I heard it on a country radio but as English is not my first language, I never knew how to find it again, I just knew remembered the words "kindness I suppose". Internet allowed me to research among country songs and to discover a lot of beautiful songs most of the people will never stumble upon.
This is what country is all about - beauty.
KovacevaMicka 8 months ago 3
I like this sersion of ponco and lefty a very good singer.....!!!!!!!!!!
whiskey1ization 9 months ago
out of 334 people 1 person doesnt like this song!!! what a faggot! i love this song!
krazymezkin01 9 months ago
townes van zandt or steve earl did beter ?
twilightjb108 9 months ago
I once sang this song with a buddy of mine at karaoke. A German couple visiting the US came up to us barely speaking English and wanted to know what song it was and who wrote it. They said it was one of the most beautiful songs they had ever heard. That right there shows you how powerful this song is. It could be the best song ever written.
mistascott007 10 months ago 65
@mistascott007 Powerful comment. Townes really created a bond amongs people.
Jornaquin 8 months ago
@mistascott007 Powerful comment. Townes really created a bond amongst people.
Jornaquin 8 months ago
@mistascott007 I love that story. I love sharing music.
ladywharton 8 months ago
@mistascott007 That's because they're Germans lol. Not to bash the song, it is great, but I doubt you gave it the proper treatment at Karaoke night.
SMK121 7 months ago
@mistascott007 Germans love that kind of music. It's part of a style they call Schlager
motelcalifornia 6 months ago
@mistascott007 you should have just said something like listen to the song. This song is great because it blood, sweat, tears, and soul. Not because some germans liked it because you sang it.
TheWallace3000 5 months ago
@mistascott007: Yes, but give yourself some credit, too. You must have sung it beautifully!
jkosmdd 5 months ago
@mistascott007 indeed! very powerful, very beautiful song. definitely one of the best ever written...
fozmanOU869 1 month ago
@mistascott007 it is a great song, almost as good as dark globe.
sigmundfloyder 4 weeks ago
Awesome classic .
MrTejano44 10 months ago
Townes wrote a song that is part of the American landscape, only song writers like Hank Williams did that.
1trudisciple 10 months ago 4
I have fond memories of listening to Willie & Merle's version of this song with my Dad when I was a child. My Dad passed away last year and I sometimes like to listen to that song, remembering the good times with him. Today I decided to listen to this version; The original. This version is better. The cadence to his voice seems softer and that haunting violin gives the song a completely different feel. More sincere in a way. Either one will always remind of Dad. Thank you TVZ for this song. RIP
holymackerel013 10 months ago 15
@holymackerel013 it was willie and WAYLON JENNINGS! not merle. merle is great too but he wasn't part of the highwaymen.
LookerQQ4 2 months ago
@LookerQQ4 Sorry, but while Willie and Waylon did a lot of tunes together, this one was Willie and Merle. Just search it on YouTube if you don't believe me.
CorneliusSneedley 2 months ago
@LookerQQ4 Look to your right, dude. It was Merle.
Either way, nobody can touch TVZ.
SpahnRanch1969 2 months ago
@holymackerel013 Hey to you holy...first version I heard was EmmylouHarris while livin' out in Cental Valley California gave me goosebumps...and out there in the dry heat I could feel my breath as hard as kerosene. Then I heard Willie and Merle's version, now this...all real nice...may your memories of your Dad always be good and true...
rkoorse 1 month ago
if you like TVZ please check out GP
gram parsons
Treadsoftly14 10 months ago
Beautiful Song.
unsca 11 months ago
Is that a violin?
That's the most beautiful thing I ever heard.
TheEndKing 11 months ago 2
@TheEndKing That is a fiddle.
strawman007 10 months ago 2
@TheEndKing fiddle and violin are the same it just depends on how you play it! In this case it`s a fiddle!!
imaStonesGirl1 10 months ago
My take on the cryptic lyrics: Pancho embodies greatness which is greatly admired and sung of by his personal troubadour Lefty. Pancho's greatness is envied by the Federales who brag they "let" him get away. But Lefty, too, eventually becomes envious of Pancho's greatness, and he turns him in to the Federales out of jealousy and flees for Ohio.
Most of us aren't Pancho, most of us are Lefty, left to wallow in our shame; but the author's compassion for Lefty is moving.
GimpSuit99 1 year ago
@GimpSuit99 I also believe this song could be a metaphor for Christ's betrayal by Judas Iscariot, always an emotional reference.
GimpSuit99 1 year ago
Steve Earle, and I'll be misquoting this badly, said that "Townes is the greatest American songwriter ever. And I'll stand on Bob Dylan's coffee table in my cowboy boots and say that." It's a sentiment I can readily agree with.
BrooklynJackBlue 1 year ago 2
@BrooklynJackBlue Earle later refuted that, saying that no one is better than Dylan but Townes was one of the greats none the less.
whichbit 11 months ago
@whichbit I'll say this. I will never speak ill of Dylan. It's not in me to do so. But me? I'll carry on what Steve said at first. I don't want to split hairs or offend anyone. Personal taste, and all, but Townes reaches down and grabs my heart in a way Bob never actually did. No offense to no one.
BrooklynJackBlue 10 months ago 6
@BrooklynJackBlue - They both were able to write and sing about the things they saw around them in a way not many ever have. They both expressed themselves perfectly at times, which is difficult to do and all we can ask of a great artist. To me, Townes more broken hearted about the world around him. I personally relate more to the broken-hearted folks because I am one myself. But I'm a fan of both and would not insult either of them by placing a number next to their name on a list.
townesfan10 10 months ago 3
@BrooklynJackBlue
I'm a huge Dylan fan-- and I'll still stand on his coffee table and call Townes his equal.
Astounding songwriter-- I mean, astounding.
sartorious56 9 months ago 15
Fantastic songwriter and a good singer, too.
BlackSabbathory 1 year ago
Townes Van Zandt was so underrated as a singer/songwriter in my opinion!
RIP Townes Van Zandt March 7, 1944 - January 1, 1997.
crb2011 1 year ago 3
This has been flagged as spam show
Ive done a small bunch of Townes covers and would really appreciate if anyone would check 'em out and give me some feedback.
Thanks Oli.
fredjenner 1 year ago
x-SpLizzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzIt
demondbzgirl 1 year ago
no offense to willie and merle but this versions way better and its the original. i like the frantic pace !
TheFlintnSteel 1 year ago 3
If you don't like and appreciate music like this you have no soul.
mrkalashnikov 1 year ago 52
@mrkalashnikov dude even though nobody got no soul in him, i agree with you about that in the case of Van Zandt's songs,but this is one of his sillier happy songs... compered to the rest.
MartianSanta 5 months ago
@mrkalashnikov - Just discovered fully how talented and beautiful this man was. Having a great time listening to his music whilst walking my dog. He will never be forgotten by people who love and seek out good music. R.I.P Mr Townes Van Zandt.
ch88ch35 5 months ago
@mrkalashnikov and no heart, amen
badbadkingjohn 3 months ago in playlist outlaws
I was lucky enough to see TVZ perform at the Childe Harold in DC in 1980. He put on a decent show... self depecarting humor and bad jokes between songs and a superb set list. This is one song that will always be in my set list when I perform.
smeghead1851 1 year ago
"out of kindness i suppose." lovely
hubertisnotmyname 1 year ago 3
I feel bad for Pancho
bassbiff 1 year ago
I think the fiddler is Marc O'Connor. Best version of Pancho & Lefty ever.
11pinrelay 1 year ago 2
the last depserado
PVD1989 1 year ago
Evergreen!
pinheadsen 1 year ago
Listen to this with dry eyes. I dare you.
BrianBinOR 1 year ago 2
Oh, and who's the one sorry sonuvabitch who didn't like this?
BrianBinOR 1 year ago
I have played and replayed this song so often it's getting a little pathetic. But his voice still gets to me *every time*.
glaringman 1 year ago 5
love love love townes van zandt.........aint life a bitch... ya get it then its gone......
JEANNE0416 1 year ago
who's the fiddle player. that guys got some monster chops.
sorry Townes but I always chuckle at the ,"WHERE HE GOT THE BREAD TO GO,"line REALLY???
steeleydan65 1 year ago
@steeleydan65 its fiction......metaphor! for an heir-type guy, all I've heard is how spartan his existence was? Read "Suttree' by Cormac McCarthy!
argyleed 1 year ago
I was never a C&W fan til I heard him sing 'Marie' with Willie Nelson!
SCHLOWEISS 1 year ago
That god damn fiddle... Jesus Christ.
Numbpk3r2 1 year ago 5
I met Townes at the Edmonton Folk Fest in the 90's, we talked for about 20 minutes. He was truely a fine person and his music will last forever. He was the symbol of singer/songwriters everywhere and lived the life to prove it.
A few years ago Steve Earle played at the Edm. Folk Fest and his entire show was dedicated to Townes Van Zandt. It was very touching.
I would love to see Townes' son JTVZ play at the same Fest some day
Milleymusic 1 year ago
Been into Townes for three decades or so - even saw him live once- and there's very few his songs that I haven't rated as highly as the others. Must admit that despite its enduring popularity this was one of those. Changed my mind now though.
MyohoSound 1 year ago
Pancho and Lefty are the same person. It's about growing up, and having to leave things behind. And looking back with nostalgia, and pride, and sadness, at who you used to be.
Pancho needs your prayers its true, but save a few for Lefty too. He just did what he had to do....
raleighrmb 1 year ago
@raleighrmb I think Lefty was his partner who snitched him off "and where he got the bread to go. . . nobody knows"
friendlyisle 1 year ago
@raleighrmb That's a really nice analysis. I don't think it's possible to listen to this song without getting goosebumps.
greblots 8 months ago
Listening to this song I can almost smell dust in the air rising from the hooves of horses. This man shaped music and american culture with his poetry and is a reminder to me, a Marine on deployment, what I and my brothers fight for daily. God bless America. Thank you Van, wherever you are for giving us your music, heart, and hope. Oohrahhh.
stewartblanton 1 year ago
Very crisp, clear voice, I enjoyed listening, I agree way underated 5 *****'s
from me. Australia.
R00RAL 1 year ago
The most beautiful sound I have ever heard. Used to eavesdrop on my dad singing this song by himself when I was a wee young'n, running around the house on my stick/horse thing pretending I was Lefty or Pancho, I can't remember. It plays through my mind every day, but having it at my finger tips is even better. Thanks.
306ness 1 year ago
don't get much better then that.
eolsyn 1 year ago
Thank you TVZ from Scotland!
Jailbreak0100 1 year ago
Magic Townes... We Love You... Thanks for all from Rome...
kinks49 1 year ago
great melody, but the story is legend!!! the words paint a vivid picture of the life hes singing about!!!! if very rare that words come to life,,,ya thats it!!!
applewhiteroad 1 year ago
great melody, but the story is legend!!! the words paint a vivid picture of the life hes singing about!!!!
applewhiteroad 1 year ago
When I listen to this song I know whether I am making the right or wrong decision in my life.
The only problem is having the courage to change my course whenever I am making the wrong decision.
joelito84 1 year ago
Beautiful. A true songwriter's song, this song lends itself to wonderful covers because it evokes emotional and artistic interpretation.
sportsfan002 1 year ago
Love it
jamibra 1 year ago
The first Townes song i every heard was Marie which was so amazing i have since become a big fan and this song is just as amazing...Townes deserved much more acclaim than he got while alive. He wont be forgotten and either will his music.
francisdpower 1 year ago
Beautiful <3
turnipgreen17 1 year ago
Ocala boys? Orange Park boys.. Brick yard boys
WelakaWombat 1 year ago
simply...the best ..as usual..the original just cant be improved..how awesome
tomldent 1 year ago
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truckie781 1 year ago
The real tragedy? My father has over a thousand country and western records. He came name people and songs and bands from as far back as the 1920's. He's never heard of Townes Van Zandt.
ethansloan 1 year ago
I'm so glad you included the lyrics of this fantastic .....masterpiece!
nick40nick40 1 year ago
it is very disappointing that the original artist receives LESS views of his performance of his own song than numerous COVERS of his song....while I appreciate the Steve Earle, Willie Nelson/Merle Haggard , Emmylou Harris and Bob Dylan covers I can not help but wish the people who viewed those covers of famous artists would have took the time to listen to the original artist perform his own song in the manner and with the emotion he intended
puglaw2 1 year ago 5
Actually, Townes appears in various places throughout the music video made by Willie & Merle, thus implying he liked that particular version.
musiceduce 1 year ago
I mean seriously, why did willie and merle think they could improve on this?
All they did was add a more poppy chorus to it. The way townes sings this matches teh words better and to me is much more artistic.
Guess willie and merle new gold when they saw it. To bad there are not more artist like this anymore. Artist that sing TRUELY from the heart and not for the GOLD.
LovetheVayne 1 year ago
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@LovetheVayne Many great artists show their respect and admiration for each other by doing their songs. Townes Van Zandt did the same with Dead Flowers, the whole album that song was on was cover songs. It's a great sign of respect
truckie781 1 year ago
@LovetheVayne i agree with that. this guy was an American original, this moves me way more than Willy's version...wonder if It has anything to do with the fact that its was Townes' song? The Tom Petty Fan Machine should listen to this songwriter-singer. just amazing how quantity equates quality. I got drubbed by the Tom Petty Fan club, because I just don't think he has really written anything that interesting, lyrically for sure...I know it is so subjective. But is Toby Keith a talent?
argyleed 1 year ago
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Why is it every C&W male looks like a faggot?
NotSoOldHippy 1 year ago
just to piss you off asshole.
rache20212 1 year ago
Haunting, beautiful lyrics. A legend to be sure.
lion39 1 year ago
Seems like the best writers always drink themselves to death.
cheese699 1 year ago
@cheese699 i agree
rache20212 1 year ago
@cheese699 seems like the best artists kill themselves. Geniuses rarely enjoy life
Alphabex8 1 year ago
this guy looks like A P carter maybe in a previous life
buckbuck666 1 year ago
For anyone that dismisses country music as shallow and banal I reccomend you take the Townes Van Zandt challenge. Listen to "Techumseh Valley" , "To Live is to Fly", "Waitin Around to Die", and his cover of "Dead Flowers". You will come away with a greater understanding of a powerful music form, one that is essentially American, and gain insight into the human condition.
jarbotxst 1 year ago 2
There is nothing quite like driving down a lonely west Texas desert highway while listening to Townes...............
morfeeene 1 year ago
Can't help but think of the story of Don Quixote every time I hear this song haha. Love it. One of my all time favorites.
RobinTunes 1 year ago 3
KISS it bitch, thats what we call an acronym faggots
claytondford85 1 year ago
Beautiful :)
hisnameiscodeine 1 year ago
Living on the road my friend was gonna keep you free and clean...
Miss ya Townes!
jinal007 1 year ago 2
genius!what a depth!
badheckler 1 year ago
Real genius-this song,what a depth!!!
But i tried to listen Tucemsah Valley due to thebannie advice and that one seems to me weak and mediocre-TVZ genius sleeps on Tuc Valley to tell the truth
badheckler 1 year ago
these lines are great, they go in the books of baddassery like 'i am vainamoinen, i eat iron ore and shit steel chain!'
smarzotais 1 year ago
@smarzotais what can you say.i,m from switzerland and know who he is....
skippy13sy 6 months ago
"wore his gun outside his pants for all the honest world to feel"
that's genius right there
aknowneemus 1 year ago
@aknowneemus Yeah, great line.
blakedawg76 1 year ago
I wear my skin like Iron and my breath is as hard as kerosene. Believe me when I say you sank into my dreams.
ralieghTsakers 2 years ago
It's so beautiful and sweetly sad, there's no better song than Pancho and Lefty.
TheWholeYearInn 2 years ago 3
Love it! Thanks.
frogsheath1 2 years ago 2
This is the only song that has ever made me tear up.
URProductions 2 years ago 4
so you haven't hears Tucemsah Valley? Townes was such a soulful singer and songwriter....we're so lucky to have his songs.
thebannie 2 years ago 3
@URProductions The only song? Give a listen to "The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald". Sailors and landlubbers alike tear up over that. Remember - those were real men who died that night. Johnny Horton's song, "The Hood". Again, real men, good men, whose bones still lie on the bottom of the ocean. Dig around among the older songs, the classics. There are plenty of songs that should bring a tear to your eye. Not all songs are written by empty headed celebrities.
Runaway1956 2 years ago 3
I have listen to this song for almost 2 weeks now. I listen everyday to this and tecumseh valley and to live's to fly. I am just mesmerized at down beat minor key feel to this music.
Townes seemed to have lived a troubled life. Unable to make to many ppl happy with him or his choices in life. I think his music is a reflection. His characters never seem to be able to satisfy the viewers/listeners.
This is much deeper music then i think most ppl realize...to me atleast.
LovetheVayne 2 years ago 7
It`s really deep music. Van Zandt was a poet. I suggest reading a bit about him and his life, as it`s really fascinating stuff :)
Luftboble 1 year ago
Quite beautiful, but actually very clever and complex - the real art is making it sound like it isn't. And, its still a great tune.
kranl 2 years ago 52
@kranl mi amigo, very generous and sensitive comment. I suspect that you are an artist or poet, maybe don't yet know it. gracias.
2dodaz 1 year ago