Saturday, May 17, 2008

The Josey Wales Song: Carry On My Wayward Son By Kansas




One of my Clint Eastwood films favorite films was "The Outlaw Josey Whales" where he played a former confederate guerilla who seeks revenge for the death of his family at the hands of pro-union militias known as "Red Legs". His desire for vengeance grows deeper when he discovers that of his comrades betrays his group to the enemy, causing their demise. The film is more than just action; it is about loss, tragedy, vengeance and reconciliation. When I watch this film, it reminds me of the song “Carry On My Wayward Son” By Kansas which really describes this film very well.

Like the movie, the song also tackles the same story line: How tragedy can change a person and the need for retribution. Whenever we are wronged by others, it’s something that we won’t ignore, especially when they hurt those we care for most. In the song and the film both have the same ending where in the end, justice is served and finally there is closure for the lead character in the film as well as the song. This song is really good for letting off steam as well. Whenever I’m annoyed or can’t get any energy in a workout, this song sure brings out the adrenaline.

Ironically though, the band who played this song call themselves Kansas which in the film is the state where Josey’s enemies come from while he hails from Missouri. I first heard this song in a televised concert called “Canada Jam” where a lot of cool bands performed. I remembered when the band performed “Dust In The Wind” he wore nothing but basketball shorts and sneekers and when they sang this song, that same singer was kicking and screaming in the piano. When I search YouTube for this song, the band was really doing a heavy number with tune. It was a cool video, though my only critique was that they most wild guy in the group who had long hair and a wild beard only had a tambourine as an instrument; still this is really one of favorite all time songs.

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