“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
In the early 1970s, country music was undergoing a transformation. The polished, Nashville sound was starting to feel a little too clean for some artists, and a new wave of “outlaw” musicians was on the rise. Among them was Waylon Jennings, a man who was never one to shy away from bucking the system. His song “Don’t You Think This Outlaw Bit’s Done Got Out of Hand” is a reflection of the tension between the rebellious spirit of the outlaw movement and the consequences that came with it. The song is deeply personal, capturing a moment when the line between reality and the outlaw persona blurred, leading to a harrowing encounter with the law.
About The Composition
- Title: Don’t You Think This Outlaw Bit’s Done Got Out of Hand
- Composer: Waylon Jennings
- Premiere Date: 1978
- Album: I’ve Always Been Crazy
- Genre: Country (Outlaw Country)
Background
“Don’t You Think This Outlaw Bit’s Done Got Out of Hand” was born out of a real-life event in 1977, when Jennings was caught in a federal drug bust. The outlaw image that had brought him fame suddenly became a stark reality as he faced the consequences of living on the edge. This song captures the irony and frustration Jennings felt as he navigated the fine line between his public persona and the dangerous life it mirrored. The track was part of the album “I’ve Always Been Crazy,” which itself was a statement on the duality of his life—both as a rebellious artist and a man confronting the very real repercussions of his actions. The song was well-received, resonating with many who saw Jennings as the epitome of the outlaw spirit.
Musical Style
The musical style of “Don’t You Think This Outlaw Bit’s Done Got Out of Hand” is quintessential outlaw country, characterized by its raw, gritty sound. The song features Jennings’ deep, commanding voice, accompanied by a steady rhythm and twangy guitar riffs that drive home the song’s message. The instrumentation is simple yet effective, allowing the lyrics to take center stage. Jennings’ vocal delivery is both resigned and defiant, perfectly encapsulating the song’s theme of living on the edge and the inevitable toll it takes.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “Don’t You Think This Outlaw Bit’s Done Got Out of Hand” tell a story of disillusionment and frustration. Jennings reflects on how his outlaw persona, once a badge of honor, has spiraled out of control, leading to legal trouble and personal turmoil. The song’s opening lines, “I’m for law and order, the way that it should be,” set the tone for a narrative that is both self-aware and critical of the very image that had come to define him. The lyrics are a candid confession, a rare moment of vulnerability from an artist known for his tough exterior.
Performance History
Since its release, “Don’t You Think This Outlaw Bit’s Done Got Out of Hand” has become one of Jennings’ most iconic songs. It has been performed numerous times, both by Jennings and by other artists who admire his legacy. The song is often cited as a defining moment in the outlaw country movement, capturing the internal conflict that many of its artists faced. Its reception has remained consistently positive, with fans and critics alike praising its honesty and grit.
Cultural Impact
The song has had a lasting impact on country music, particularly within the outlaw subgenre. It has been referenced in discussions about the challenges faced by artists who embrace a rebellious image and the consequences of living that life both on and off stage. Beyond music, the song has been cited in discussions about the nature of celebrity and the pressures that come with maintaining a public persona. It serves as a reminder of the cost of fame and the fine line between myth and reality.
Legacy
“Don’t You Think This Outlaw Bit’s Done Got Out of Hand” remains a significant part of Waylon Jennings’ legacy. It is a song that not only reflects his personal struggles but also encapsulates the essence of the outlaw country movement. Its themes of rebellion, consequence, and self-reflection continue to resonate with audiences today. The song’s relevance endures, reminding listeners of the complexities behind the outlaw image and the reality that often lies beneath.
Conclusion
“Don’t You Think This Outlaw Bit’s Done Got Out of Hand” is more than just a song; it’s a statement on the dualities of life, fame, and the personas we create. Waylon Jennings’ candid reflection on his own experiences adds a depth to the song that makes it both relatable and poignant. For those who appreciate the outlaw country genre, this song is a must-listen. I recommend seeking out live performances of the track, where Jennings’ delivery adds an extra layer of authenticity and emotion to an already powerful piece.
Video
Lyrics
I’m for the law and order the way that it should be
This song’s about the night they spent protecting you from me
Someone called us outlaws in some old magazine
New York sent a posse down like I ain’t ever seen
Don’t you think this outlaw bit’s done got out of hand?
What started out to be a joke the law don’t understand
Was it singing through my nose that got me busted by the man?
Maybe this here outlaw bit’s done got out of hand, out of hand
We were wrapped up in our music that’s why we never saw
Cars pull up, the boys get out and the room fills up with law
They came boundin’ through the backdoor in the middle of a song
They got me for possession of something that was gone, long gone
Don’t you think this outlaw bit’s done got out of hand?
What started out to be a joke the law don’t understand
Was it singing through my nose that got me busted by the man? Oh Lord
Maybe this here outlaw bit’s done got out of hand
Don’t you think this outlaw bit’s done got out of hand, out of hand?