About the song
Gene Pitney, a distinguished figure in the world of American pop music, graced the charts with his evocative and powerful voice. Among his many contributions to the music world, one song that stands out is “(The Man Who Shot) Liberty Valance.” Released in 1962, this track is a classic example of Pitney’s talent for storytelling through song.
The song captures the essence of the American West, weaving a tale of justice and heroism with a lyrical nod to the timeless themes of good versus evil. It draws inspiration from the popular Western genre, famously associated with the movie of the same name, “The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance,” which starred John Wayne and James Stewart. The narrative within the song revolves around a heroic figure who confronts the menacing Liberty Valance, a notorious outlaw whose tyranny is met with a decisive stand for righteousness.
Gene Pitney’s rendition of this song is marked by its dramatic flair and stirring melody, which perfectly complements the song’s storyline. His deep, resonant voice imbues the track with an emotional depth, inviting listeners to immerse themselves in the dramatic saga of frontier justice. The song not only resonates with fans of Western movies but also captures the spirit of the era’s fascination with tales of bravery and moral fortitude.
The allure of “(The Man Who Shot) Liberty Valance” lies in its ability to transport listeners to a bygone era of American folklore, where legends were born and heroes rose against adversity. Through Gene Pitney’s masterful performance, this song continues to hold a cherished place in the hearts of many, embodying the essence of classic American storytelling.
Whether you are a long-time admirer of Gene Pitney or someone new to his music, “(The Man Who Shot) Liberty Valance” is a compelling reminder of the power of song to evoke vivid imagery and timeless narratives.
Video
Lyrics
When Liberty Valance rode to town
The womenfolk would hide, they’d hide
When Liberty Valance walked around
The men would step aside
‘Cause the point of a gun was the only law
That Liberty understood
When it came to shooting straight and fast
He was mighty good
From out of the East a stranger came
A law book in his hand, a man
The kind of a man the West would need
To tame a troubled land
‘Cause the point of a gun was the only law
That Liberty understood
When it came to shooting straight and fast
He was mighty good
Many a man would face his gun
And many a man would fall
The man who shot Liberty Valance
He shot Liberty Valance
He was the bravest of them all
The love of a girl can make a man stay on
When he should go, stay on
Just trying to build a peaceful life
Where love is free to grow
But the point of a gun was the only law
That Liberty understood
When the final showdown came at last
A law book was no good
Alone and afraid, she prayed that he’d
Return that fateful night, oh that night
When nothing she said could keep her man
From going out to fight
From the moment a girl gets to be full grown
The very first thing she learns
When two men go out to face each other
Only one returns
Everyone heard two shots ring out
One shot made Liberty fall
The man who shot Liberty Valence
He shot Liberty Valance
He was the bravest of them all
The man who shot Liberty Valance
He shot Liberty Valance
He was the bravest of them all