About the song
Marty Robbins’ “El Paso” is a timeless classic that has captivated audiences for decades. This haunting western ballad, released in 1959, tells a tragic tale of love, jealousy, and ultimately, death. The song’s gripping narrative, combined with Robbins’ powerful vocals and the distinctive Tex-Mex guitar accompaniment, has cemented its place in country music history.
The story unfolds in the Wild West town of El Paso, Texas. A young cowboy, smitten with a beautiful Mexican dancer named Feleena, becomes consumed by jealousy when he sees her with another man. In a fit of rage, he challenges the newcomer to a deadly gunfight, resulting in the stranger’s death. Fearful of the consequences, the cowboy flees the scene and hides out in the harsh New Mexican badlands.
Years later, driven by an unyielding love for Feleena, the cowboy returns to El Paso, despite the danger that awaits him. With a heart full of longing and a disregard for his own safety, he seeks out the woman who has haunted his thoughts. However, his fate is sealed as he is pursued and fatally wounded by a posse. In a bittersweet ending, Feleena is by his side as he takes his final breath, their love story ending tragically but forever etched in the hearts of listeners.
“El Paso” is more than just a song; it’s a poignant exploration of human emotions, the allure of the Wild West, and the enduring power of love. Robbins’ masterful storytelling, combined with the evocative musical arrangement, creates a truly unforgettable experience. This classic ballad continues to resonate with audiences today, serving as a testament to the enduring appeal of country music and its ability to capture the human spirit.
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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
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