In 1975, a pivotal year for Country music, Waylon Jennings, the outlaw country pioneer with a voice as rough and tumble as his persona, released a single that would become an anthem for a generation. “Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way” wasn’t just a catchy tune; it was a declaration of artistic independence and a sly homage to the legend who paved the way for Jennings and countless others – Hank Williams.
Emerging from the Bakersfield sound, a subgenre known for its electric guitars, raw vocals, and working-class themes, Jennings had already established himself as a force to be reckoned with. Hits like “Love of the Common Man” and “Lonesome, On’ry and Mean” cemented his status as a voice for the outsiders, the rebels, and those who felt disenfranchised by the polished Nashville establishment.
“Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way”, written by Jennings himself, wasn’t a diss track aimed at Williams. Instead, it was a playful exploration of artistic lineage and the challenges of living in the shadow of a giant. The song opens with a question – a knowing wink to the audience – “Did Hank Williams write a song about a honky tonk fight?” This sets the stage for a lighthearted yet thought-provoking exploration of what it means to be an heir to a musical legacy.
The song wasn’t just a critical darling, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. It became a signature tune for Jennings, further solidifying his position as a leader in the outlaw country movement. Produced by the legendary Jack Clement, known for his work with Johnny Cash and Carl Perkins, the track boasted a stripped-down, bluesy sound that perfectly complemented Jennings’ gravelly vocals and the song’s introspective lyrics.
“Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way” wasn’t just a hit song; it was a cultural touchstone. It captured the spirit of a generation pushing boundaries and forging its own path, all while acknowledging the giants whose shoulders they stood on.
video