About the song
“Wild Ones.” Released in 1990 on his album Waylon and Company, this song might not have reached the same chart-topping heights as some of his earlier anthems, but it remains a potent reminder of the raw, untamed essence that made him a legend. Often presented as a duet, frequently with his fellow “outlaw” Hank Williams Jr., it’s a celebration of living life on one’s own terms, for better or worse.
The lyrics of “Wild Ones” paint a vivid picture of restless souls, individuals who inherently refuse to be caged or tamed by societal expectations. It’s a song for those who feel the call of the open road, the allure of freedom, and the undeniable pull of their own instincts, even if it leads them down unconventional paths. Phrases like “Some call us renegades, some call us crazy / But we’re just Wild Ones, that’s what we are” directly address the label often applied to him and his peers, turning a perceived criticism into a badge of honor. It speaks to a shared identity among those who live by their own rules, who might make mistakes but always do so authentically. It’s a narrative that glorifies the spirit of adventure, the embrace of personal liberty, and the camaraderie found among like-minded free spirits. It’s a simple, yet powerful, anthem for anyone who’s ever felt the urge to break away from the herd.
Waylon Jennings’ vocal performance on “Wild Ones” is, as always, utterly authentic and imbued with his signature swagger. His deep, resonant baritone, with that distinctive blend of gruffness and knowing wisdom, delivers the lyrics with an undeniable conviction. He sounds exactly like a man who has lived every line of the song, embodying the “wild one” persona with natural ease and a lifetime of experience. There’s a subtle defiance in his tone, a quiet confidence that underscores the message of self-determination. When sung as a duet, the interplay of his voice with another strong personality (like Hank Jr.’s) only amplifies the sense of shared spirit and rebellious camaraderie. It’s a performance that doesn’t just sing about being wild; it is wild.
The musical arrangement of “Wild Ones” is firmly rooted in the robust, country-rock sound that was a hallmark of Waylon Jennings’ later work, a style that perfectly encapsulated the “Outlaw” movement he helped define. It features a driving rhythm section, prominent electric guitar riffs that provide a raw, energetic backbone, and sometimes a soulful steel guitar that grounds it firmly in country tradition. The production is direct and powerful, designed to highlight the raw energy and the unvarnished honesty of the vocals. It’s an arrangement that feels expansive and free, mirroring the lyrical themes of the open road and independent living.
“Wild Ones” resonated with audiences who identified with its message of independence and living life on one’s own terms. While perhaps not as ubiquitous as some of his earlier hits, it remains a beloved track for fans who appreciate Waylon Jennings’ consistent dedication to his authentic outlaw image. It’s a powerful reminder of the enduring allure of the free spirit and the lasting legacy of a man who truly was one of the Wild Ones.
Video
Lyrics
Straight out of nowhere
And a little bit out of our minds
We were courting disaster
With one foot over the line
It was one for the show
And two for ol’ shorty and me
We were the wild ones
We had this town up a tree
We were the wild ones
The ones they couldn’t control
We were survivors
Good hearts – body and soul
We were the winners
‘Cause we didn’t know we could fail
We were the wild ones
And we had the world by the tail
She was a lady
When a lady wasn’t easy to be
Hangin’ in limbo
She started hangin’ with me
We were the music
‘Cause we had a song we could sing
We were the wild ones
And we had the world on a string
We were the wild ones
The ones they couldn’t control
We were survivors
Good hearts – body and soul
We were the winners
‘Cause we didn’t know we could fail
We were the wild ones
And we had the world by the tail
We were the wild ones
And we had the world by the tail
