“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Imagine a dimly lit room, the smell of whiskey lingering in the air, as four iconic voices sing in perfect harmony, weaving a tale of struggle, redemption, and identity. This is the scene that comes to mind when I think of “Born and Raised in Black and White” by The Highwaymen. It’s more than just a song; it’s a narrative that captures the complexity of human experience, told through the voices of legends like Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Kris Kristofferson, and Willie Nelson. The song’s haunting melody and evocative lyrics make it a standout in their repertoire—a tale of family, race, and the hardships of life, set against the backdrop of American history.
About The Composition
- Title: Born and Raised in Black and White
- Composer: Don Cook and John Barlow Jarvis
- Premiere Date: 1990
- Album: Highwayman 2
- Genre: Country
- Background:
“Born and Raised in Black and White” is one of the profound tracks from Highwayman 2, the second collaborative studio album by the country supergroup, The Highwaymen. Written by Don Cook and John Barlow Jarvis, the song delves deep into the juxtaposition of identity, race, and upbringing, reflecting the duality of experiences faced by two brothers born into different circumstances. At its core, the song tells a poignant story of separation and the divergent paths two people can take due to the color of their skin. This theme, set against the harmonious yet gritty delivery of The Highwaymen, gives the song an emotional depth that resonates powerfully with its listeners.
Musical Style
The musical style of “Born and Raised in Black and White” is rooted in classic country, but it carries the gravitas of a Southern gothic ballad. With its steady rhythm, somber guitar riffs, and the subtle twang of a steel guitar, the song creates a haunting atmosphere that draws the listener in. The Highwaymen’s voices, distinct and yet beautifully blended, alternate between telling the tale and harmonizing in the chorus, creating a dialogue that feels almost conversational. This structure, paired with its simple yet evocative melody, allows the emotional weight of the lyrics to take center stage.
Lyrics Analysis
The lyrics of “Born and Raised in Black and White” are both narrative and reflective, exploring themes of race, identity, and family. The song tells the story of two brothers—one black, one white—who are separated at birth and grow up in vastly different circumstances. Lines like “One learned to fight, the other learned to preach” encapsulate the stark differences in their upbringing, while the refrain, “We were born and raised in black and white,” serves as a powerful reminder of the role that race plays in shaping their lives. The song’s storytelling quality, combined with its poignant social commentary, makes it not just a piece of music but a thought-provoking narrative.
Performance History
“Born and Raised in Black and White” was performed by The Highwaymen as part of their Highwayman 2 tour and has been featured in several retrospective collections of their work. While it may not be the most commercially successful track by the group, it has been praised for its lyrical depth and the way it showcases the unique strengths of each member’s voice. Over the years, the song has become a favorite among fans who appreciate its storytelling and the powerful themes it addresses.
Cultural Impact
Though “Born and Raised in Black and White” did not achieve mainstream commercial success, it holds a significant place in country music history as a song that dared to tackle issues of race and identity head-on. Its narrative of two brothers divided by race was groundbreaking in a genre that often steered away from such politically charged themes. The song’s influence can be seen in later works by artists who address social issues in their music, making it a precursor to the modern socially conscious country music movement.
Legacy
“Born and Raised in Black and White” remains a poignant reminder of The Highwaymen’s willingness to push the boundaries of traditional country music. It stands as a testament to the power of storytelling in song and the group’s unique ability to blend social commentary with heartfelt emotion. Even decades after its release, the song continues to resonate with audiences, serving as both a reflection on America’s past and a call to acknowledge the complexities of identity and race in the present.
Conclusion
“Born and Raised in Black and White” is more than just a country ballad—it’s a narrative that delves into the heart of American history and identity. I would encourage anyone unfamiliar with the song to give it a listen, paying close attention to the interplay between the voices and the haunting lyrics. For those wanting a starting point, the live performances by The Highwaymen capture the raw emotion of the piece beautifully. It’s a song that lingers long after the final note has faded, leaving the listener with much to ponder about family, identity, and the forces that shape our lives.
Video
Lyrics
[Waylon Jennings]
The wind blows hard across the Texas plains
Makes some people go insane
While others quietly pray for rain
That’s where we came from
Two boys playing in the burning sun
One with books,one with guns
Mama calls but just one comes
[Willie Nelson]
The other one runs
[All]
In a crystal sense of wrong and right
We were born and raised in black and white
One learned to pray,one loved to fight
We were born and raised in black and white
We were born and raised in black and white
[Kris Kristofferson]
Brother took to the gospel road
Spent his whole live saving souls
When he looked at me his blood ran cold
He didn’t even try
[Waylon Jennings]
I had no dreams, I had no plans
But a gun felt good in my right hand
The warden asked how come you killed that man
I said I don’t know why
[All]
Welcome home said the hot moonlight
We were born and raised in black and white
One lives to pray,one prays for life
We were born and raised in black and white
We were born and raised in black and white
[Waylon Jennings]
Someone handed me a cigarette
They offered me my last request
I asked my mortal soul be blessed
By someone close to me
He came to me with trembling hands
He swore he’d never understand
I said it’s just what life had planned
It’s destiny
[All]
Don’t waste your tears on me tonight
We were born and raised in black and white
I chose the dark,you chased the light
We were born and raised in black and white
We were born and raised in black and white
[Willie Nelson]
The wind blows hard across the Texas plains
Makes some people go insane
[Waylon Jennings]
While others quietly pray for rain