About the song
“Big Iron” is a classic country western song written and performed by Marty Robbins. Released in 1959, the song quickly became a hit, reaching number 25 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and number 1 on the Billboard Country chart. It has since become one of Robbins’ most popular songs, and it is considered a staple of the country western genre.
The song is a ballad that tells the story of a showdown between two cowboys, one armed with a “big iron” (a revolver) and the other with a “quick draw” (a fast gun). The two men face off in a dusty town square, and the tension is palpable as they prepare to draw their guns. The song’s narrator is a bystander who watches the events unfold, and he describes the scene in vivid detail.
The song’s lyrics are full of Western imagery, and they paint a picture of a time and place that is both romanticized and dangerous. The song’s melody is also simple and memorable, and it has helped to make “Big Iron” one of the most enduring country western songs of all time.
“Big Iron” has been covered by many artists over the years, and it has been featured in a number of films and television shows. It is a true American classic, and it is sure to continue to be enjoyed by fans of country western music for many years to come.
Additional details:
- Songwriter: Marty Robbins
- Album: Gunfighter Ballads and Trail Songs (1959)
- Billboard Hot 100 chart: #25
- Billboard Country chart: #1