“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Every once in a while, a song captures the spirit of an era and the heart of a genre, resonating with listeners across generations. Lonesome, On’ry and Mean by Waylon Jennings is one such song. For those familiar with the Outlaw Country movement, this track is an anthem of rebellion, independence, and gritty authenticity. With its honest lyrics and rugged sound, Jennings delivered a message that spoke to those on the fringes, giving voice to an entire subculture within country music.
About the Composition
- Title: Lonesome, On’ry and Mean
- Composer: Steve Young
- Premiere Date: 1973
- Album/Opus/Collection: Lonesome, On’ry and Mean (album)
- Genre: Country (Outlaw Country)
Background
Lonesome, On’ry and Mean was written by Steve Young, a folk and country songwriter whose lyrics often explored themes of isolation and longing. The song found its perfect voice in Waylon Jennings, who recorded it for his 1973 album of the same name. By this time, Jennings had already become a defining voice of the Outlaw Country movement—a genre that stood in stark contrast to Nashville’s polished, radio-friendly sound. The title track, with its raw energy and reflective yet defiant lyrics, became emblematic of Jennings’ own life and career.
The song’s release marked a critical point in country music history. Fans were growing tired of formulaic country tunes and were ready for something authentic, raw, and rebellious. Jennings, embodying the “outlaw” persona, broke away from traditional production styles, opting for a sound that echoed the gritty reality of his experiences. Lonesome, On’ry and Mean captured the attention of listeners who felt disenfranchised by mainstream country music, earning Jennings a reputation as the voice of the marginalized and misunderstood.
Musical Style
The musical structure of Lonesome, On’ry and Mean is simple yet powerful, with a mix of rugged guitar riffs and a steady, driving rhythm that enhances the song’s mood of rebellion. Jennings’ vocal performance is gritty and sincere, with a voice that fluctuates between defiance and melancholy. The track’s instrumentation, typical of Outlaw Country, includes prominent electric guitars and a rougher production style, breaking away from Nashville’s polished studio sound. This approach reinforces the song’s themes of independence and defiance, allowing listeners to feel every ounce of emotion Jennings poured into his performance.
Lyrics
The lyrics of Lonesome, On’ry and Mean delve into themes of loneliness, alienation, and a restless spirit—a life on the road with an endless desire for freedom. Lines such as, “I’ve been down that road with a bottle in my hand / Lonesome, on’ry, and mean” reflect a life scarred by hardship, yet defiantly proud of the journey. Jennings’ rendition of these lyrics brought an added layer of depth and honesty, making listeners feel as though he lived every word. The song became a statement of identity, resonating with those who, like Jennings, walked their own path.
Performance History
Lonesome, On’ry and Mean has seen many performances over the years, with Jennings’ own live renditions standing out for their raw energy and authenticity. The song quickly became a staple in his live shows, where its rebellious tone and heartfelt lyrics struck a chord with audiences. Throughout his career, Jennings’ relationship with this song only deepened, and it remained a defining piece of his performances, symbolizing his journey and the path he carved for himself in country music.
Cultural Impact
The song’s impact extended well beyond country music. Lonesome, On’ry and Mean not only captured the essence of Outlaw Country but also influenced other genres and artists who appreciated its raw emotion and honesty. The song has been covered by several artists, including Steve Young, who originally wrote it, showcasing its versatility and broad appeal. It has been featured in numerous documentaries and retrospectives on the Outlaw Country movement, solidifying its place as a pivotal piece in the history of American music.
Legacy
Today, Lonesome, On’ry and Mean remains a touchstone of Waylon Jennings’ career and a classic within the Outlaw Country genre. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its unapologetic honesty and the universality of its themes. Even decades after its release, it continues to resonate with listeners who feel “lonesome, ornery, and mean” in a world that often doesn’t understand them. Jennings’ legacy is preserved through this track, as it reminds audiences of the importance of staying true to oneself, regardless of the cost.
Conclusion
Listening to Lonesome, On’ry and Mean is like stepping into a rugged landscape of open roads and unfiltered truths. For anyone who values freedom and authenticity, this song is an anthem, a reminder that the path to self-discovery is often paved with hardship and resilience. If you haven’t already, I recommend checking out one of Jennings’ live performances of this track. It’s not just music—it’s a piece of history that continues to inspire and empower.
Video
Lyrics
On a Greyhound bus
Lord, I’m traveling this morning
I’m goin’ to Shreveport and down to New Orleans
Been travelin’ these highways
Been doin’ things my way
It’s been making me lonesome, on’ry and mean
Now her hair was jet black
And her name was Codene
She thought she was the queen of the Basin Street Queens
She got tired of that smokey-wine dream
Began to feel lonesome, on’ry and mean
We got together, and we cashed in our sweeps
Gave ’em to a beggar who was mumbling through the streets
There’s no escaping from his snowy white dreams
Born lookin’ lonesome, on’ry and mean
Now I’m down in this valley
Where the wheels turn so low
At dawn I pray to the Lord of my soul
I say do Lord, do right by me
You know I’m tired of being lonesome, on’ry and mean