Back in 1978, Waylon Jennings released a song titled “I’ve Always Been Crazy”

“I’ve Always Been Crazy” is a reflective piece by Waylon Jennings that encapsulates his turbulent lifestyle and the personal struggles he faced, particularly with his outlaw image and cocaine addiction. Released in 1978, the song became emblematic of Jennings’ authenticity and his confrontations with life’s darker aspects. It reached the top of the country charts, solidifying its place in the outlaw country genre.

The album of the same name was recorded between 1973 and 1978 in studios in Nashville and Hollywood. This period was marked by Jennings’ deep engagement with the outlaw country movement, a genre characterized by its rejection of the Nashville sound in favor of more personal and rebellious themes. This movement also featured other country music icons like Willie Nelson, and it was during this time that Jennings produced some of his most influential work.

“I’ve Always Been Crazy” served not just as a musical track but as a personal statement from Jennings, wherein he discusses the complexities of his life and career. The song’s lyrics delve into his internal conflicts and the repercussions of living on the edge. Interestingly, the song was released shortly after Jennings faced a significant legal issue—a cocaine bust in 1977, which influenced another track on the album, reflecting on the impact of his outlaw persona.

Throughout his career, Jennings was known for his deep, resonant voice and his ability to blend rock and country elements. His music often explored themes of heartache, rebellion, and the everyday struggles of ordinary people, which resonated with a wide audience and left a lasting impact on the country music genre.