Check out these new and used Waylon Jennings vinyl records LPs for sale. We recommend starting your Waylon Jennings vinyl collection with the essential albums Folk Country, Leavin’ Town and Nashville Rebel. Our inventory is always changing, so check back often, or browse our list of vinyl records for sale from country musicians.

Waylon Jennings: A Journey Through Outlaw Country

The Outlaw Pioneer

Waylon Jennings, a name synonymous with outlaw country, left an indelible mark on the music industry, shaping the course of country music with his distinctive sound and rebellious spirit. The era of Waylon Jennings Vinyl records stands as a testament to his enduring influence on the genre. Here are the Waylon Jennings Tracks and Albums.

Early Years and Rise to Prominence

Waylon Arnold Jennings was born on June 15, 1937, in Littlefield, Texas. His journey in the music industry began in the late 1950s, working as a DJ and playing bass for Buddy Holly. The tragic plane crash that claimed Holly’s life in 1959 marked a turning point for Jennings, leading him to pursue his own solo career.

In 1965, Jennings signed with RCA Victor and released his debut album, “Folk-Country.” However, it wasn’t until the 1970s that he truly found his voice and became a central figure in the outlaw country movement.

Waylon Jennings Vinyl Discography

Jennings’ discography spans several decades and includes numerous studio albums, live recordings, and collaborations. Here, we delve into some of his most iconic vinyl releases that capture the essence of his outlaw persona.

“Lonesome, On’ry and Mean” (1973)

Released in 1973, “Lonesome, On’ry and Mean” is a defining album in Waylon Jennings’ career. The title track, with its gritty vocals and rebellious lyrics, encapsulates the outlaw ethos. The album also features standout tracks like “You Can Have Her,” showcasing Jennings’ ability to blend traditional country with a rock edge.

“Dreaming My Dreams” (1975)

“Dreaming My Dreams” marked a departure from the Nashville sound, as Jennings took creative control of his music. The title track became a signature song, and the album as a whole reflected a more introspective side of the artist. The raw emotion in tracks like “Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way” solidified Jennings’ status as a pioneer of outlaw country.

“Wanted! The Outlaws” (1976)

A groundbreaking collaboration featuring Jennings, Willie Nelson, Jessi Colter, and Tompall Glaser, “Wanted! The Outlaws” is the first country album to sell a million copies. This compilation of previously released tracks showcased the outlaws’ rebellion against the polished Nashville sound, becoming a cultural phenomenon and establishing outlaw country as a formidable force.

“Ol’ Waylon” (1977)

“Ol’ Waylon” continued Jennings’ streak of successful albums. The hit single “Luckenbach, Texas (Back to the Basics of Love)” became an anthem for those seeking refuge from the excesses of modern life. The album’s diverse tracks, from the honky-tonk feel of “The Wurlitzer Prize (I Don’t Want to Get Over You)” to the poignant “Sweet Caroline,” demonstrated Jennings’ versatility.

“I’ve Always Been Crazy” (1978)

As the title suggests, “I’ve Always Been Crazy” embraces Jennings’ unapologetic nature. The album includes the self-reflective “Don’t You Think This Outlaw Bit’s Done Got Out of Hand” and the spirited “I Ain’t Living Long Like This.” With each track, Jennings further solidified his reputation as a rebel in the world of country music.

Waylon’s Musical Legacy

Waylon Jennings Vinyl records not only showcase his rebellious spirit but also highlight his influence on subsequent generations of musicians. Several artists and bands have drawn inspiration from Jennings’ outlaw ethos, shaping the landscape of country and rock music.

Similar Outlaw Icons

1. Willie Nelson:
A close friend and collaborator, Willie Nelson shares the outlaw spirit with Waylon Jennings. Together, they pioneered the outlaw country movement, challenging the conventions of Nashville.

2. Merle Haggard:
Another outlaw country luminary, Merle Haggard’s music often echoed the themes of independence and rebellion championed by Jennings. Their camaraderie left an indelible mark on the genre.

3. Johnny Cash:
The Man in Black, Johnny Cash, embraced a similar outlaw persona, delving into themes of love, heartache, and societal critique. His influence on Waylon Jennings and vice versa created a symbiotic relationship.

Waylon’s Impact on Modern Artists

1. Chris Stapleton:
Drawing inspiration from the raw, authentic sound of Waylon Jennings, Chris Stapleton’s soulful approach to country music echoes the rebellious spirit that defined outlaw country.

2. Sturgill Simpson:
Sturgill Simpson’s genre-defying approach and unapologetic lyrics draw parallels to Waylon Jennings’ groundbreaking work. Simpson’s willingness to push boundaries aligns with the outlaw ethos.

3. Jamey Johnson:
Jamey Johnson, with his deep baritone and introspective lyrics, pays homage to the outlaw tradition. His music reflects a reverence for the authenticity that Waylon Jennings brought to the genre.

Conclusion

Waylon Jennings Vinyl records serve as a tangible testament to the outlaw country movement that reshaped the landscape of country music. Jennings’ rebellious spirit, coupled with his distinctive sound, has left an enduring legacy that continues to influence artists across genres. As we revisit his iconic albums, we find a journey through the evolution of an outlaw pioneer whose impact transcends time, resonating with both traditionalists and those pushing the boundaries of contemporary music.