Songs About Taos, New Mexico: Tributes to our Enchanted Town
Taos, New Mexico has long been a muse for artists, writers, and musicians alike. Its sweeping landscapes, rich cultural history, and magnetic spiritual energy have inspired countless creative works. Over the years, several musicians have penned songs that pay tribute to this unique and mystical place. Whether you're a local, a visitor, or just curious, these songs offer a glimpse into the town’s influence on music history. Let’s take a journey through some of the most notable songs written about Taos.
1. "Taos, New Mexico" by R. Dean Taylor (1972)
R. Dean Taylor’s 1972 track “Taos, New Mexico” is a lesser-known gem that captures the rugged beauty and allure of the town. While Taylor is perhaps best known for his Motown hits, this song represents a shift in tone, delivering a heartfelt homage to the open skies and endless horizons of Taos. The lyrics describe a longing to return to the quiet and solace of Taos, a place where time seems to slow down and the troubles of the world fade away.
Taylor’s deep appreciation for the town’s mysticism and tranquility comes through in this folksy tune, reminding listeners of the healing energy Taos provides for those seeking a retreat from the noise of modern life. With its simple melody and reflective lyrics, "Taos, New Mexico" feels like a love letter to the town’s peaceful spirit.
2. "Taos, New Mexico" by Waylon Jennings (1967)
In 1967, country legend Waylon Jennings released his own ode to Taos with his song "Taos, New Mexico." Jennings was known for his ability to tell vivid stories through his music, and this track is no exception. The song’s lyrics paint a picture of the town’s rugged charm and its remote, desert beauty. Jennings' voice, with its signature outlaw country grit, fits perfectly with the raw and untamed nature of the landscape he describes.
For Jennings, Taos seems to represent both a destination and a state of mind—one that embodies freedom and simplicity, far from the complications of city life. His song captures the essence of the open road and the allure of the high desert, making it a fitting tribute to a town that has long attracted wanderers and free spirits.
3. "Ee-you-oo (Taos, New Mexico)" by Robert Mirabal
Taos Pueblo native Robert Mirabal brings a deeply personal connection to his music, and "Ee-you-oo (Taos, New Mexico)" is no exception. As an internationally acclaimed musician and storyteller, Mirabal’s music often draws on his Native American heritage, and this song reflects the spiritual connection between the people of Taos and the land itself.
With haunting melodies and traditional instrumentation, "Ee-you-oo" is a journey into the soul of Taos. The song evokes the sound of the wind moving through the canyons and the energy of the ancient Pueblo people, connecting listeners to the sacred rhythms of the earth. Mirabal’s work always carries an air of reverence, and this track is a powerful reminder of Taos’ deep roots in Native culture.
4. "Medicine Man (Taos, New Mexico)" by Robert Mirabal
Another stirring piece from Robert Mirabal, "Medicine Man (Taos, New Mexico)" blends traditional Native American music with modern elements to create a song that’s both grounded in ancient wisdom and accessible to contemporary listeners. Mirabal’s evocative use of flutes, drums, and chants brings to life the spirit of the medicine men who have long been a part of Taos’ history and cultural fabric.
In "Medicine Man," Taos is not just a backdrop but an active participant in the song’s narrative. The land itself is imbued with healing powers, as represented by the figure of the medicine man. Mirabal’s vocals channel the energy of his ancestors, making this song a tribute to the cultural and spiritual healing that Taos has offered to its people for centuries.
A Soundtrack to Taos’ Soul
From the soulful tones of Waylon Jennings’ country storytelling to the reverent melodies of Robert Mirabal’s traditional songs, these tracks offer a unique window into the spirit of Taos. Each song, in its own way, celebrates the town’s captivating landscape, its rich cultural history, and its ability to inspire a sense of freedom and renewal.
If you’ve ever visited Taos or plan to, these songs can serve as the perfect soundtrack for your journey, guiding you through the winding roads, vast deserts, and mountainous views that make Taos such an unforgettable place.