About the song
“Lonesome, On’ry and Mean” by Waylon Jennings is a defining anthem of the outlaw country movement, a raw and unapologetic declaration of independence and a rejection of Nashville’s polished conventions. Released in 1973, the title track of his album of the same name, this song stands as a testament to Jennings’s rebellious spirit and his commitment to a more rugged and authentic sound. It’s more than just a country song; it’s a statement of artistic integrity and a celebration of individuality.
The song’s lyrics, written by Steve Young, perfectly capture the persona that Jennings embodied – a man who lives life on his own terms, unconcerned with societal expectations or the opinions of others. The narrator embraces his “lonesome, on’ry and mean” reputation, suggesting that it is a consequence of his independent nature and refusal to conform. Jennings’s vocal delivery, marked by its deep baritone and assertive phrasing, enhances the song’s rebellious and defiant quality.
Waylon Jennings’s vocal style, characterized by its strong, resonant baritone and his conversational, almost spoken delivery, imbues the song with a sense of raw authenticity and unwavering conviction. He doesn’t just sing the lyrics; he embodies the persona, conveying the independence and defiance of the narrator with a palpable sense of sincerity. The sparse instrumentation, often featuring a prominent Telecaster guitar and a straightforward rhythm section, further emphasizes the song’s raw and unvarnished sound.
“Lonesome, On’ry and Mean” is more than just a country song; it’s an anthem of rebellion and individuality, a powerful statement against conformity and a celebration of living life on one’s own terms. It’s a testament to Waylon Jennings’s artistic vision and his pivotal role in shaping the outlaw country movement, influencing generations of artists who dared to buck the Nashville system and embrace a more authentic sound. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its honest portrayal of a man who is comfortable in his own skin, regardless of how others may perceive him.
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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
