“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Imagine it’s the mid-1970s, and country music is at a crossroads. Amidst the glitzy rhinestones and the orchestrated crescendos that dominated the genre, Waylon Jennings drove a movement that would reshape the soundscape of country music. The song “Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way” not only questioned the current state of country music but also paid homage to Hank Williams, whose raw and authentic style seemed forgotten. This song became an anthem for the burgeoning Outlaw Country movement, marking a pivotal moment in music history.
About The Composition
Title: Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way
Composer: Waylon Jennings
Premiere Date: 1975
Album/Opus/Collection: Dreaming My Dreams
Genre: Country (Outlaw Country)
Background
Released in 1975, “Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way” quickly became one of Waylon Jennings’ most iconic tracks, spotlighting his dissatisfaction with the Nashville music scene’s constraints. Jennings expressed his yearning for the raw, simpler style of Hank Williams, contrasting it with the overly polished and commercialized music of his time. The song, a critical piece of the Outlaw Country movement, highlighted artists’ desires for creative freedom and authenticity, characteristics that Jennings felt were missing in the mainstream country music industry. It was received with acclaim, resonating with many who felt disconnected from the prevailing trends in Nashville, securing its place as a pivotal anthem in Jennings’ career and the broader genre.
Musical Style
The song’s arrangement is quintessentially Outlaw: stripped-down with a prominent bass line, an insistent rhythm, and Jennings’ deep, resonant vocals cutting through the mix. The use of electric guitar and a subtle, yet persistent drumbeat adds a rugged texture that contrasts sharply with the polished orchestral backdrops typical of the Nashville sound of that era. This simplicity and directness in instrumentation underscore the song’s message about returning to the roots of country music.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way” question the lavish lifestyle and commercial production of contemporary country music, reflecting Jennings’ and other Outlaw artists’ desire to return to the straightforward, honest style of Hank Williams. The song’s refrain, a rhetorical question, suggests a disconnect between the genre’s origins and its current state, invoking a reflective tone that encourages listeners to consider the authenticity of their musical expressions.
Performance History
Since its release, the song has been a staple in Jennings’ performances and has been covered by numerous artists, underscoring its enduring appeal and influence. Its reception has remained overwhelmingly positive, cementing its status as a classic in country music and a touchstone for the Outlaw movement.
Cultural Impact
“Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way” has had a profound impact on country music and beyond, inspiring a wave of artists to pursue greater artistic integrity. Its influence extends into the realms of rock and folk, where its themes of authenticity and artistic freedom resonate widely. The song has also featured in various media, further testament to its pervasive cultural relevance.
Legacy
The legacy of “Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way” is felt in its continuing influence on musicians and fans who advocate for authenticity and integrity in music. The song is a critical commentary on the industry that still resonates today, often cited in discussions about the evolution of country music and the importance of maintaining the genre’s roots.
Conclusion
“Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way” stands as a poignant reminder of the power of music to challenge and redefine. It invites listeners to reflect on what makes music resonate on a deeper level. For those new to Jennings or the Outlaw genre, this song serves as a perfect entry point, encapsulating the spirit of an era and a movement with timeless appeal. I encourage everyone to experience this track in its original form on the Dreaming My Dreams album, a true testament to Waylon Jennings’ legacy and the enduring soul of country music
Video
Lyrics
Lord, it’s the same old tune, fiddle and guitar
Where do we take it from here?
Rhinestone suits and new shiny cars
It’s been the same way for years
We need a change
Somebody told me, when I came to Nashville
“Son, you finally got it made
Old Hank made it here, and we’re all sure that you will”
But I don’t think Hank done it this way
I don’t think Hank done it this way, okay
Ten years on the road, makin’ one-night stands
Speedin’ my young life away
Tell me one more time just so I’ll understand
Are you sure Hank done it this way?
Did old Hank really do it this way?
Lord, I’ve seen the world with a five-piece band
Looking at the back side of me
Singing my songs, and one of his now and then
But I don’t think Hank done ’em this way, no
I don’t think Hank done it this way
Take it home