About the song
“‘Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way’ is a quintessential Waylon Jennings track that captures the essence of the outlaw country movement and serves as a personal statement about the genre’s evolution. Released in 1975 as part of Jennings’ influential album Dreaming My Dreams, this song reflects his distinctive style and his role in reshaping country music.
The song was penned by the talented songwriter and producer, Roger Miller, known for his clever lyrics and innovative approach to country music. Miller’s songwriting shines through in this track, blending a sense of introspection with a touch of defiance. Jennings’ delivery of the song is both earnest and reflective, embodying the spirit of rebellion that characterized the outlaw country movement of the 1970s.
‘Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way’ achieved considerable success on the charts, reaching number 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. This success highlighted Jennings’ rising prominence in the country music scene and his ability to connect with audiences through his honest and unfiltered approach to songwriting. The song’s chart-topping performance was a significant milestone for Jennings, reinforcing his reputation as a key figure in the genre.
The track serves as a homage to Hank Williams, a foundational figure in country music, while also questioning the direction of the genre and its contemporary artists. Jennings’ introspective questioning and his smooth, resonant voice give the song a timeless quality, making it a staple in the country music repertoire.
‘Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way’ remains a beloved classic, celebrated for its honest reflection on country music’s past and its future, and it continues to resonate with fans old and new.”
Video
Lyrics
Lord, it’s the same old tune, fiddle and guitar
Where do we take it from here?
Rhinestone suits and new shiny cars
It’s been the same way for years
We need a change
Somebody told me, when I came to Nashville
“Son, you finally got it made”
Old Hank made it here, we’re all sure that you will
But I don’t think Hank done it this way, no
I don’t think Hank done it this way
Okay
Ten years on the road, makin’ one night stands
Speedin’ my young life away
Tell me one more time, just so’s I’ll understand
Are your sure Hank done it this way?
Did ol’ Hank really do it this way?
Lord, I’ve seen the world, with a five piece band
Looking at the back side of me
Singing my songs, and one of his now and then
But I don’t think Hank done ’em this way, no
I don’t think Hank done ’em this way
Take it home