About the song
Waylon Jennings: The Outlaws’ Balladeer
In the annals of country music, few figures stand taller than Waylon Jennings. A true outlaw, Jennings defied the conventions of his time, carving out a unique path that blended traditional country with elements of rock and roll. His music was raw, honest, and deeply personal, resonating with those who felt marginalized or misunderstood.
One of Jennings’ most iconic songs is “Drinkin’ and Dreamin’,” a ballad that captures the essence of his outlaw persona. Released in 1985, the song topped the country charts and became a signature tune for Jennings.
“Drinkin’ and Dreamin'” is a tale of heartache and longing, sung with Jennings’ signature grit and vulnerability. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man drowning his sorrows in alcohol, seeking solace in the bottom of a bottle. But amidst the despair, there’s a glimmer of hope, a belief that things might get better someday.
The song’s melody is simple yet haunting, perfectly complementing the lyrics’ melancholic tone. Jennings’ voice is as weathered as his lyrics, each note imbued with emotion and experience. He sings with a world-weariness that only comes from living life on the edge, but there’s also a tenderness in his voice that reveals the man beneath the outlaw persona.
“Drinkin’ and Dreamin'” is more than just a country song; it’s an anthem for anyone who has ever felt lost or alone. It’s a reminder that even in our darkest moments, there’s always a chance for redemption.
Key takeaways:
- “Drinkin’ and Dreamin'” is a ballad about heartache and longing, sung with Jennings’ signature grit and vulnerability.
- The song was released in 1985 and topped the country charts.
- The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man drowning his sorrows in alcohol, seeking solace in the bottom of a bottle.
- The song’s melody is simple yet haunting, perfectly complementing the lyrics’ melancholic tone.
- Jennings’ voice is as weathered as his lyrics, each note imbued with emotion and experience.
- “Drinkin’ and Dreamin'” is more than just a country song; it’s an anthem for anyone who has ever felt lost or alone.
Additional information:
- Songwriter: Troy Seals and Max D. Barnes
- Album: Turn the Page
- Genre: Country
- Length: 3:43
Critical reception:
- “Drinkin’ and Dreamin'” was a critical and commercial success, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart.
- The song has been praised for its honest and relatable lyrics, as well as Jennings’ powerful vocal performance.
- “Drinkin’ and Dreamin'” is considered one of Jennings’ signature songs and a classic of country music.
Legacy:
- “Drinkin’ and Dreamin'” continues to be a popular song today, and it has been covered by many artists, including Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood.
- The song is a reminder of Waylon Jennings’ enduring legacy as one of the greatest country music singers of all time.
Video
Lyrics
“Drinkin’ And Dreamin'”
Everybody’s lookin’ for some way in,
I’m lookin’ for some way out.
I’ve been wastin’ my time standin’ in line
If this is what it’s all about.All I got is a job that I don’t like
And a woman that don’t understand.
So tonight at the bar,
I’ll get in my car
And take off for the promise land.Drinkin’ and dreamin’
Knowin’ damn well I can’t go.
I’ll never see Texas, L.A., or Old Mexico.
But here at this table, I’m able to leave it behind.
Drink ’til I’m dreamin’, a thousand miles out of my mind.This suit and this tie, is just a disguise.
This ain’t really me.
Some people are born, to be tied down,
Some people are born to be free.When I look down the road she don’t know
How it gets under my skin.
She’s got my body but my heart and soul
Are out there ridin’ the wind.Drinkin’ and dreamin’
Knowin’ damn well I can’t go.
I’ll never see Texas, L.A., or Old Mexico.
But here at this table, I’m able to leave it behind.
Drink ’til I’m dreamin’, a thousand miles out of my mind.Drinkin’ and dreamin’
Knowin’ damn well I can’t go.
I’ll never see Texas, L.A., or Old Mexico.
But here at this table, I’m able to leave it behind.
Drink ’til I’m dreamin’, a thousand miles out of my mind.