Who remembers the outlaw tribute song of Waylon Jennings to Bob Wills? I do! Listen to the song that honored the late King of Western Swing.
About the Song
Jennings wrote the song as a tribute to James Robert Wills, also known as Bob Wills, the King of Western Swing. Wills formed the band Texas Playboys with Tommy Duncan as the vocalist of the band. “San Antonio Rose” and “Steel Guitar Rag” were among their famous pieces. Jennings originally intended the song to be a message to his friend Willie Nelson.
As part of the lyrics, he mentioned that he wrote the song on a plane between Dallas and Austin going to El Paso, where he was scheduled to perform a concert. He further talked about the king who contributed much to outlaw music. Also, he prayed to hear the Texas Playboys and Tommy Duncan sing once again.
Jennings mentioned that Nashville, Tennessee is the home of the country music but stressed out that down in Texas, Bob Wills is still the King. Unfortunately, before the release of the song, Wills’ died. He was not able to hear the tribute song.
Waylon Jennings as an Outlaw Artist
Coming from the land of Texas, Jennings was the promulgator of the outlaw country music. He initiated the anti-Nashville style of country music and depicted the ‘rock style’ country singer in contrast to the singers from Grand Ole Opry. Some of his famous pieces include “ Mama’s Don’t Let Your Babies Grow” and “ Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way.”
Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, and Hank Williams are among the other outlaw music artists he worked with. At the age of 64, Jennings died on February 13, 2002, due to diabetes complication. He left behind his wife, Jessie Colter and their child, Waylon Albright Jennings.
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bob wills, Waylon Jennings