About the song
“El Paso” is a true masterpiece of storytelling in song, a vivid and cinematic Western ballad that has stood the test of time. Released in 1959 as part of the album “Gunfighter Ballads and Trail Songs,” this song propelled Marty Robbins to even greater heights of fame, solidifying his reputation as a master of the genre.
What sets “El Paso” apart is its intricate and compelling narrative. Robbins weaves a tale of a cowboy’s passionate love affair with a Mexican dancer named Felina, set against the backdrop of the rugged landscape of El Paso, Texas. The song’s lyrics are rich in detail, painting a picture of jealousy, violence, and ultimately, tragic loss.
Robbins’ vocal performance in “El Paso” is nothing short of mesmerizing. His smooth, resonant baritone conveys a sense of both longing and regret, drawing the listener into the heart of the story. The song’s melody, with its distinctive Spanish influences, further enhances the atmosphere of romance and danger.
The sheer length of “El Paso,” clocking in at over four minutes, was also groundbreaking for its time. Rather than adhering to the typical three-minute radio format, Robbins allowed the story to unfold at its own pace, creating a truly immersive listening experience.
The song’s impact was immediate and profound. “El Paso” topped the Billboard country and pop charts, earning Robbins a Grammy Award for Best Country & Western Recording. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal.
Beyond its musical merits, “El Paso” also offers a glimpse into the cultural landscape of the American West. It explores themes of love, honor, and the consequences of impulsive actions, all within the context of a specific time and place.
In essence, Marty Robbins’ “El Paso” is a classic example of how a song can transport the listener to another world. It’s a testament to the power of storytelling in music, and a reminder of Marty Robbins’ extraordinary talent as a singer and songwriter.
Video
Lyrics
Out in the West Texas town of El Paso
I fell in love with a Mexican girl
Nighttime would find me in Rosa’s cantina
Music would play and Felina would whirl
Blacker than night were the eyes of Felina
Wicked and evil while casting a spell
My love was deep for this Mexican maiden
I was in love, but in vain I could tell
One night, a wild young cowboy came in
Wild as the West Texas wind
Dashing and daring, a drink he was sharing
With wicked Felina, the girl that I loved
So in anger
I challenged his right for the love of this maiden
Down went his hand for the gun that he wore
My challenge was answered in less than a heartbeat
The handsome young stranger lay dead on the floor
Just for a moment, I stood there in silence
Shocked by the foul evil deed I had done
Many thoughts raced through my mind as I stood there
I had but one chance and that was to run
Out through the back door of Rosa’s I ran
Out where the horses were tied
I caught a good one, it looked like it could run
Up on its back and away I did ride
Just as fast as I
Could from the West Texas town of El Paso
Out to the badlands of New Mexico
Back in El Paso, my life would be worthless
Everything’s gone in life, nothing is left
It’s been so long since I’ve seen the young maiden
My love is stronger than my fear of death
I saddled up and away I did go
Riding alone in the dark
Maybe tomorrow, a bullet may find me
Tonight nothing’s worse than this pain in my heart
And at last here I am on the hill, overlooking El Paso
I can see Rosa’s cantina below
My love is strong and it pushes me onward
Down off the hill to Felina I go
Off to my right I see five mounted cowboys
Off to my left ride a dozen or more
Shouting and shooting, I can’t let them catch me
I have to make it to Rosa’s back door
Something is dreadfully wrong, for I feel
A deep burning pain in my side
Though I am trying to stay in the saddle
I’m getting weary, unable to ride
But my love for Felina is strong and I rise where I’ve fallen
Though I am weary, I can’t stop to rest
I see the white puff of smoke from the rifle
I feel the bullet go deep in my chest
From out of nowhere Felina has found me
Kissing my cheek as she kneels by my side
Cradled by two loving arms that I’ll die for
One little kiss and Felina, goodbye
