Waylon Jennings, the legendary “Outlaw” of country music, carved his path in the genre with a rebellious spirit and a relentless pursuit of artistic integrity. Throughout his career, he challenged the polished sounds of mainstream Nashville with a raw and uncompromising approach, becoming a central figure in the “outlaw” movement of the 1970s. One song that encapsulates this ethos, albeit with a retrospective twist, is “Outlaw Sh*T” (2008). This introspective country ballad, a reimagining of Jennings’ earlier hit “Don’t You Think This Outlaw Bit’s Done Got Out of Hand” (1978), serves as a late-career reflection on the outlaw persona and the consequences of a life lived on the edge. “Outlaw Sh*T” wasn’t just a song; it was a poignant look back at a life defined by rebellion, a testament to Waylon Jennings’ ability to evolve as an artist, and a reminder of the enduring power of his legacy.
The song’s origins are rooted in Jennings’ own tumultuous past. “Outlaw Sh*T” is a reinterpretation of “Don’t You Think This Outlaw Bit’s Done Got Out of Hand”, a song he wrote and recorded in 1978 at the height of the outlaw movement. The original version pulsated with youthful defiance, celebrating the outlaw lifestyle. However, “Outlaw Sh*T”, recorded decades later with his son Shooter Jennings producing, takes a more introspective approach. The lyrics paint a picture of regret and reflection. Lines like “all this outlaw stuff’s done turned sour” and “the price I paid was way too high” reveal a sense of remorse for the choices that defined his outlaw persona.
Producer Shooter Jennings, carrying on his father’s legacy, oversaw the recording of “Outlaw Sh*T”. Understanding the song’s reflective tone, Shooter opted for a stripped-down production style. The core instrumentation features a prominent acoustic guitar with a slow and melancholic strumming pattern, a minimal drumbeat that emphasizes the introspective mood, and a touch of pedal steel guitar adding a layer of country nostalgia. This approach creates a stark and intimate soundscape that perfectly complements the protagonist’s emotional journey.
The magic of “Outlaw Sh*T” lies entirely with Waylon Jennings’ captivating performance. His signature rough-hewn baritone voice, now imbued with a touch of weariness and regret, perfectly embodies the protagonist’s reflection on his past. Jennings delivers the lyrics with quiet intensity, conveying the weight of his choices, the toll the outlaw life has taken, and the underlying search for redemption. There’s a vulnerability in his voice that resonates deeply with listeners, inviting them to connect with the song’s themes of confronting one’s past, the consequences of rebellion, and the enduring human desire for forgiveness and a second chance.
“Outlaw Sh*T” was released on the posthumous album Waylon Forever (2008) and became a poignant reflection on Waylon Jennings’ life and career. Beyond the charts, the song transcended the typical outlaw anthem, becoming a powerful exploration of self-reflection and the complexities of living a life on the edge. “Outlaw Sh*T” remains a testament to Waylon Jennings’ ability to evolve as a songwriter and performer, a reminder of the lasting impact of the outlaw movement, and a song that continues to resonate with anyone who has ever grappled with the choices they’ve made and the paths they’ve taken.