About The Song
“The King Is Gone (So Are You)” is a heartfelt and poignant song originally written and performed by Waylon Jennings, paying tribute to the loss of Elvis Presley, often referred to as “The King” of rock and roll. The live performance of this song by The Highwaymen at Nassau Coliseum in 1990 brings together the distinctive voices of Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, and Kris Kristofferson, creating an emotionally charged tribute that honors not only Elvis Presley’s legacy but also the broader theme of loss and change in the music world.
At its core, “The King Is Gone (So Are You)” is a reflection on the passing of a cultural icon—Elvis Presley—and the impact that his death had on the world of music and beyond. The song captures the sense of grief and mourning that follows the loss of someone who changed the landscape of music and pop culture. It speaks to the broader theme of mortality, especially the loss of great figures, and how those losses leave an indelible mark on those who remain. The song’s lyrics convey both a sense of reverence for Presley’s influence and a personal reflection on the end of an era in popular music.
The songwriting in “The King Is Gone (So Are You)” is simple yet emotionally powerful. It contrasts the loss of Presley (“The King is gone”) with the narrator’s personal sense of abandonment, capturing the universal feeling of losing a beloved figure—whether that be a famous icon or someone close to us. The song reflects on how these figures shape our lives, and when they’re gone, it feels like a piece of us is lost as well. The refrain “So are you” adds a personal element, implying a sense of collective mourning not just for Presley, but for all the cultural icons who have passed.
Musically, “The King Is Gone (So Are You)” has a reflective, mournful country arrangement, perfectly matching the song’s somber tone. The live performance is filled with emotion, with The Highwaymen’s harmonies adding depth to the tribute. Waylon Jennings takes the lead with his familiar deep, gravelly voice, delivering the lyrics with sincerity and authenticity. Willie Nelson’s smooth, soulful vocals, Johnny Cash’s commanding and heartfelt delivery, and Kris Kristofferson’s rich, emotional phrasing blend together beautifully, creating a harmony that enhances the song’s tribute to Elvis and the loss of an entire era of music.
What makes this live version of “The King Is Gone (So Are You)” particularly memorable is the collective energy and emotional resonance of The Highwaymen. The chemistry between the four legends brings an added layer of reverence and connection to the song, making it feel like a shared moment of reflection. Their voices come together in perfect harmony, amplifying the song’s tribute to Presley’s legacy and the broader theme of loss.
For fans of The Highwaymen, Waylon Jennings, and anyone who appreciates songs about loss, legacy, and cultural impact, “The King Is Gone (So Are You)” is a standout track. Its poignant lyrics, soulful melody, and heartfelt performance make it a powerful tribute to Elvis Presley and a reminder of the impact that music legends have on the world. The live version at Nassau Coliseum remains a lasting tribute to “The King” and the way in which such figures shape our lives and memories.
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