Country Music

Classic Country Music Hits

Country Music

Waylon Jennings – Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way

“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”

Introduction

Imagine you’re at a bustling honky-tonk, the air thick with the scent of beer and smoke, when suddenly, the jukebox starts playing a song that makes everyone pause and listen. It’s “Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way” by Waylon Jennings, a song that not only honors the legacy of Hank Williams but also questions the direction of country music in the 1970s. This track, filled with raw emotion and honest storytelling, captures the essence of an era and the soul of an artist.

About The Composition

  • Title: Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way
  • Composer: Waylon Jennings
  • Premiere Date: 1975
  • Album: Dreaming My Dreams
  • Genre: Country

Background

“Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way” was written and recorded by Waylon Jennings in 1975. At the time, Jennings was part of the Outlaw Movement in country music, which sought to return control to the artists and away from the commercialized Nashville sound. This song serves as both a tribute to the legendary Hank Williams and a critique of the music industry’s evolution.

The song’s inception stemmed from Jennings’ frustration with the direction country music was heading. He admired Hank Williams’ raw, authentic style and questioned whether the new wave of country musicians were staying true to those roots. Upon its release, the song resonated with many who felt the same way, quickly becoming a hit and solidifying Jennings’ place in country music history.

Musical Style

The musical style of “Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way” is characterized by its straightforward, gritty sound. The instrumentation includes electric guitars, bass, and drums, creating a rock-influenced country sound that was emblematic of the Outlaw Movement. The song’s structure is simple yet powerful, with a repetitive chorus that drives home the central message.

Jennings’ vocal delivery is raw and sincere, reflecting his deep respect for Hank Williams and his discontent with the current state of country music. This combination of heartfelt lyrics and robust musical backing makes the song a poignant critique wrapped in a memorable tune.

Lyrics

The lyrics of “Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way” are both a homage and a challenge. Jennings questions whether the path he and his contemporaries are on aligns with the authenticity of Hank Williams’ legacy. Lines like “Lord, it’s the same old tune, fiddle and guitar. Where do we take it from here?” reflect his contemplation and critique. The song’s storytelling approach, a hallmark of country music, effectively conveys Jennings’ message and connects with listeners on a personal level.

Performance History

“Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way” has been performed by numerous artists over the years, each bringing their unique style to the classic. Notable performances include those by Willie Nelson and Merle Haggard, both of whom were also prominent figures in the Outlaw Movement. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its powerful message and Jennings’ impactful delivery.

Cultural Impact

The cultural impact of “Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way” extends beyond its initial release. It has been featured in various media, including films and documentaries about country music, highlighting its significance in the genre’s history. The song also inspired other musicians to stay true to their roots and resist commercial pressures, influencing the direction of country music for years to come.

Legacy

“Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way” remains a beloved classic, celebrated for its honesty and its critique of the music industry. Its relevance continues today, as artists grapple with maintaining authenticity in an ever-evolving industry. Jennings’ tribute to Hank Williams not only honors the past but also serves as a reminder to future generations to stay true to their artistic vision.

Conclusion

“Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way” is more than just a song; it’s a powerful statement about staying true to one’s roots and questioning the status quo. Waylon Jennings’ heartfelt tribute to Hank Williams resonates with listeners, encouraging them to reflect on the music industry’s evolution and the importance of authenticity. For those looking to dive deeper into this iconic track, I recommend listening to Jennings’ original recording and exploring live performances by other artists to appreciate its enduring legacy

Video

Lyrics

Bob Wills Is Still the King (Live)
Here’s a song I wrote on a plane
Between Dallas and Austin goin’ to El Paso, whoops.
Now this is what gave us the idea to come down here,
This is a song about a guy that probably did as much
For our kind of music as anybody.
Well, the Honky Tonks in Texas
Were my natural second home
The way you tip your hat to the ladies
In the rose of San Antone.
I grew up on music
That we call western swing
It don’t matter whose in Austin
Bob Wills is still the king.
Lawd, I can still remember
The way things were back then
In spite of all the hard times
I’d live it all again.
To hear the Texas Playboys
And Tommy Duncan sing
Makes me proud to be from Texas
Where Bob Wills is still the king.
You can hear the Grand Ol Opry
In Nashville, Tennessee
It’s the home of country music
On that we all agree.
But when you cross that ol’ Red River hoss
That just don’t mean a thing
Once youre down in Texas
Bob Wills is still the king.
If you aint never been there
Then I guess you ain’t been told
That you just can’t live in Texas
Unless you got alot of soul.
It’s the home of Willie Nelson
The home of western swing
He’ll be the first to tell you
Bob Wills is still the king…

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