About the song
Waylon Jennings and the Outlaw Country Movement
In the annals of country music history, few names resonate with the rebellious spirit and heartfelt twang of Waylon Jennings. A true pioneer of the outlaw country movement, Jennings stood against the polished, pop-infused country music of the time, embracing a raw, authentic sound that spoke to the hearts of working-class Americans. His music, characterized by its gritty vocals, driving rhythms, and introspective lyrics, chronicled the struggles and triumphs of everyday life, earning him a devoted following and a place among country music’s most revered figures.
Among Jennings’s vast repertoire of hits, “This Time” stands out as a poignant ballad that encapsulates the essence of his artistry. Released in 1974 as the title track of his album of the same name, the song marked a turning point in Jennings’s career, propelling him to mainstream success and solidifying his status as an outlaw country icon.
A Song of Redemption and Renewal
“This Time” is a song of redemption and renewal, a heartfelt plea for forgiveness and a second chance. The lyrics, penned by Jennings himself, paint a vivid picture of a man grappling with the consequences of his past mistakes, seeking solace and reconciliation with a former lover. Jennings’s weathered vocals, infused with emotion and vulnerability, convey the raw desperation and longing of a man on the brink of losing everything he holds dear.
The song’s melancholic melody, underscored by the twang of Jennings’s signature Telecaster guitar, perfectly complements the somber tone of the lyrics. The arrangement, a blend of traditional country instrumentation and outlaw country grit, creates a palpable atmosphere of heartache and longing.
A Timeless Classic of Country Music
“This Time” struck a chord with listeners upon its release, topping the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart in 1974 and becoming Jennings’s first number-one hit. The song’s enduring popularity has cemented its place as a timeless classic of country music, a staple of Jennings’s live performances and a touchstone for generations of country music fans.
Beyond its commercial success, “This Time” holds profound significance as a testament to Jennings’s artistry and the outlaw country movement he championed. The song’s raw authenticity, emotional depth, and unwavering honesty embody the very essence of outlaw country, a genre that dared to challenge the status quo and celebrate the struggles and triumphs of the common man.
Conclusion
“This Time” is a masterpiece of country music, a song that has resonated with listeners for decades and continues to inspire and move generations of music lovers. It is a testament to Waylon Jennings’s enduring legacy as a true outlaw country pioneer, a man who fearlessly embraced his own voice and paved the way for countless artists to follow.
Video
Lyrics
“This Time”
This time if you want me to come back it’s up to you.But remember I won’t allow the things you used to do.You’re gonna have to toe the mark and walk the line.This time will be the last time.This time if I should feel unwanted I won’t stay
Each tomorrow will depend on the love you give today
It’s all up to you but keep in mind
This time will be the last time.If this time should be anything like the other times
This time will be the last time.If this time should be anything like the other times
This time will be the last time.