About The Song
“The Devil’s Right Hand” is a hard-hitting and thought-provoking song that delves into the consequences of living a life driven by violence and temptation. Originally written by Steve Earle and performed by Waylon Jennings in 1990, The Highwaymen’s version, which appears in their live performances, takes the song to another level. With the voices of Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, and Kris Kristofferson, “The Devil’s Right Hand” becomes a gripping anthem about the choices people make and the inevitable outcomes of living by the gun.
At its core, “The Devil’s Right Hand” tells the story of a man who falls victim to the dangerous allure of violence, symbolized by a gun that he believes makes him powerful. The song focuses on the transformation of a man who starts out innocent, but whose life is changed forever after he picks up a gun. The lyrics detail how this decision leads to tragedy, a lost sense of innocence, and the recognition that the “devil’s right hand” (the gun) is a path to destruction and suffering. The repeated refrain emphasizes that once a person chooses violence, it becomes a dangerous and irreversible part of their life.
The songwriting in “The Devil’s Right Hand” is stark and powerful, drawing on themes of temptation, regret, and inevitability. It serves as both a cautionary tale and an exploration of the consequences of one’s actions. The imagery of the gun as the “devil’s right hand” connects violence with temptation, and the lyrics make it clear that living by the gun ultimately leads to ruin. This makes the song feel both haunting and relevant, as it comments on the darker side of human nature and the temptations that drive people to make destructive decisions.
Musically, “The Devil’s Right Hand” is driven by a steady, hard rhythm, with twangy guitars and a strong beat that create a sense of urgency and tension. The Highwaymen’s live version of the song is raw and electric, and the individual vocal styles of each member bring depth to the story. Waylon Jennings’ signature rugged voice adds a gritty authenticity to the song, while Johnny Cash’s deep and resonant tone brings a sense of authority to the tale. Willie Nelson and Kris Kristofferson’s contributions add layers of emotion and texture to the performance, making it an unforgettable live moment.
What makes “The Devil’s Right Hand” particularly memorable is the way The Highwaymen turn this grim tale into an anthem of caution and reflection. Their performance is intense, and the collective power of their voices elevates the song’s message. The connection between the four legends, along with the thematic weight of the song, makes it one of the most powerful performances in their catalog.
For fans of The Highwaymen and anyone who appreciates country music that tackles deeper, darker themes, “The Devil’s Right Hand” is a standout track. Its gripping storytelling, haunting melody, and powerful vocals make it a timeless piece that speaks to the consequences of violence and the lasting effects of the choices we make. The song continues to resonate, offering a stark reminder of the dangers of temptation and the heavy price of living by the gun.