Waylon Jennings
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About Waylon Jennings
Waylon Jennings (1937–2002) was an iconic American country music artist, songwriter, and pioneer of the "outlaw country" movement. Born in Littlefield, Texas, Jennings began his career as a radio DJ before joining Buddy Holly's band, The Crickets, as a bassist.
Waylon's breakthrough as a solo artist came in the 1970s when he resisted the polished Nashville sound, favouring a raw, gritty style. Albums like ‘Honky Tonk Heroes’ (1973) and ‘Dreaming My Dreams’ (1975) redefined country music. His compilation album with Willie Nelson, Jessi Colter, and Tompall Glaser, 'Wanted, The Outlaws!' (1976), became the first platinum-certified country record.
Known for hits such as ‘Mammas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys’, ‘Luckenbach, Texas (Back to the Basics of Love)’, and ‘Good Hearted Woman’, Jennings also narrated and performed the theme song (‘Good Ol’ Boys’) for the TV series The Dukes of Hazzard (1979).
When and where was Waylon Jennings born?
Waylon Jennings was born on 15 June 1937 in Littlefield, Texas, USA.
What is outlaw country, and how did Waylon contribute to it?
Outlaw country was a movement in the 1970s that rejected the polished, heavily produced Nashville sound in favour of an authentic, rebellious style. Jennings’ album ‘Wanted! The Outlaws’ defined the genre.
Did Waylon Jennings win any awards?
Waylon Jennings won multiple awards, including a Grammy Award for Best Country Performance by a Duo or Group for ‘Mammas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys’.
How many albums did Waylon Jennings release?
Waylon Jennings released 54 studio albums, 16 live albums, and numerous compilations over his career. Notable albums include ‘Honky Tonk Heroes’ (1973), ‘Dreaming My Dreams’ (1975), and ‘Waylon Live’ (1976).
