Waylon Jennings (1937-2002) was an American country singer and guitarist from Littlefield, Texas, who started out playing bass for Buddy Holly. A chief architect of outlaw country, he fought Nashville for creative control and won — Honky Tonk Heroes (1973) and Wanted! The Outlaws (1976) are the proof. Browse Waylon Jennings vinyl, CDs, and reissues at Wax Trax Records.
Waylon Jennings (1937-2002) was an American country musician born in Littlefield, Texas. He played bass in Buddy Holly's band and survived the 1959 plane crash that killed Holly by giving up his seat. He went on to become one of the principal architects of outlaw country, demanding and winning creative control over his music in defiance of Nashville convention. He was also a member of The Highwaymen alongside Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, and Kris Kristofferson.
Jennings helped define outlaw country, a grittier, rock-influenced alternative to the slick Nashville sound, marked by his deep, resonant voice, driving rhythms, and a tough, independent sensibility. His work fused honky-tonk and country traditions with a rebellious attitude that reshaped the genre and influenced countless artists.
Jennings's RCA catalog has been extensively reissued, and original pressings of his 1970s outlaw-era albums are collected. Wanted! The Outlaws, a landmark and the first platinum country album, is a particularly sought-after title.
Listeners new to Waylon Jennings often start with Honky Tonk Heroes (1973) or Wanted! The Outlaws (1976). For related listening, see and .
