Waylon Jennings
Today I would like to talk about the late Waylon Jennings and his importance as a performer in country music. Known later in his career as "The Outlaw", Waylon Jennings was an American country singer born in Littlefield, Texas in 1937. He started his career in the music industry early, working as a radio DJ as a young teenager, where he would meet his new friend Buddy Holly, whom he began playing the bass for. After the death of his close friend and band mate he moved back to Texas, working as a disc jockey.
Waylon picked back up his music career and eventually found himself in Nashville, Tennessee, roommates with none other than the Man in Black himself, Johnny Cash. Waylon quickly became recognized as an Outlaw with his attitude and actions against the music industry. Waylon wanted to perform the songs that he enjoyed playing, and was always advocating for himself against the records companies.
I'd like for you to listen to the rebellious lyrics while listening to this musical example. In the song Waylon tells the story of a drifting musical performer who has seemingly grown tired of his ramblin' ways.The lyrics along with the gritty tone of his voice perfectly capture the outlaw lifestyle.
Composed by Steve Young, Performed by Waylon Jennings, "Lonesome, On'ry, and Mean", Lonesome, On'ry, and Mean, RCA Records, 1973.
Waylon began to find like minded performers who also wanted to perform music in their own way, not under the control of the music industry, such as Willie Nelson. Together the two performed music and even released an album entitled "Wanted! The Outlaws", Waylon Jennings, RCA Records, 1976. The album was awarded with Album of the Year by the Country Music Awards (CMA).
In this next song example I would like to for you to take notice of the steady rhythm that follows the song. It's quite simple, you can play this song on the guitar using only a D and a G chord. But through his steady rhythm and bluesy guitar riffs, he makes this song very enjoyable.
Composed by Curtis Buck, Performed by Waylon Jennings, "Waymore's Blues", Dreaming My Dreams, RCA Records, 1975
Waylon continued playing music and performing live all through the 80's and 90's, and was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2001. He passed away shortly after in February of 2002.
I believe that Waylon Jennings was crucial and even needed for the country music industry. He left a legacy of emphasizing the enjoyment of the performer. His rebellious and uncompromising stance paved the way for many artists to follow in his footsteps and challenge the music industry who have taken advantage of performers for so long.
Sources
Country Music Hall of Fame, "Waylon Jennings", accessed on April 2, 2024, https://www.countrymusichalloffame.org/hall-of-fame/waylon-jennings
Biography, "Waylon Jennings", accessed on April 2, 2024, https://www.biography.com/musicians/waylon-jennings
Thanks for the informative write-up on Waylon Jennings. I'm familiar with his music since they play it often on the radio in Alaska. "Wymore's Blues" reminded me how well Jennings blends his guitar skills with his vocals. It was also interesting to learn about his rebellious nature against the constraints of record labels and his focus on self-advocacy. This blog sheds light on lesser-known aspects of Jennings' life and comprehensively explains his personality. It was also neat to learn that he was roommates with Johnny Cash as well!
ReplyDelete