Outlaw Country

Outlaw country is a subgenre of country music that originated in the late 1960s and early 1970s. The term "outlaw" refers to the artists who rejected the polished sound and commercialism of mainstream Nashville country music and instead embraced a more raw and rebellious style. The roots of outlaw country can be traced back to the Bakersfield sound, a style of country music that emerged in California in the 1950s and 60s. Bakersfield artists like Buck Owens and Merle Haggard infused their music with elements of rock and roll and honky-tonk, creating a rougher and more energetic sound than the slick, orchestrated style of Nashville. But it was a group of Texas-based songwriters who really kicked off the outlaw country movement. In the late 1960s, Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, Kris Kristofferson, and Johnny Cash (who wasn't technically a Texan, but recorded his landmark album At Folsom Prison there in 1968) began to make a name for themselves with their outsider status and unconventional approach to country music. The term "outlaw country" didn't come into use until the early 1970s, when writer Hazel Smith used it to describe the rebellious attitude of artists like Jennings, Nelson, and Kristofferson. These outlaws eschewed the traditional songs about heartache and whisky, opting instead to write about social and political issues, as well as their own personal struggles. One of the defining moments of the outlaw country movement came in 1976, when Jennings released the album Wanted! The Outlaws, which included tracks from Jennings, Nelson, Tompall Glaser, and Jessi Colter. The album became the first country album to be certified platinum, and its success solidified the outlaw aesthetic as a viable commercial force. Meanwhile, Nelson was carving out his own niche with his distinctive blend of country, rock, and jazz. He became known for his idiosyncratic phrasing and laid-back vocal style, as well as his penchant for ragged, improvisational arrangements. His landmark album Red Headed Stranger, released in 1975, is still regarded as a classic of the genre. Other notable outlaw country artists included Billy Joe Shaver, David Allan Coe, and Steve Earle. Like their predecessors, these artists were known for their rough-and-tumble lifestyles and rebellious attitudes. Coe, in particular, courted controversy with his explicit lyrics and outlaw persona, which included a stint in prison for armed robbery. Despite its popularity in the 70s and 80s, outlaw country began to lose steam in the 1990s as mainstream country became dominated by slickly produced pop crossovers. However, the genre has experienced somewhat of a renaissance in recent years, thanks in part to the success of singer-songwriter Chris Stapleton, whose rootsy sound and gritty storytelling evoke the spirit of the outlaws who came before him.

Willie Nelson: A true icon of Outlaw Country, Willie Nelson established himself as a prominent figure in the movement with hits like "On the Road Again" and "Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain". He's known for his distinctive vocal style and his ability to blend traditional country with other genres like jazz and rock. Merle Haggard: Haggard was known for his autobiographical lyrics, often drawing from his personal experiences of growing up in poverty and spending time in prison. His hits include "Okie from Muskogee" and "The Fightin' Side of Me". Waylon Jennings: With a distinctive voice and rebellious spirit, Waylon Jennings became one of the biggest names in Outlaw Country. His hits include "Luckenbach, Texas (Back to the Basics of Love)" and "Mamas Don't Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys". Kris Kristofferson: Before launching his own successful music career, Kristofferson was a successful songwriter for other artists, penning hits like "Me and Bobby McGee" for Janis Joplin. His own songs, including "Sunday Mornin' Comin' Down" and "Help Me Make It Through the Night", are known for their introspective and often melancholy lyrics. Johnny Cash: One of the most iconic figures in all of country music, Johnny Cash's contributions to Outlaw Country cannot be overstated. His deep, gravelly voice and songs that often dealt with topics like heartbreak and redemption made him a favorite of both country and rock fans. Hits include "Folsom Prison Blues" and "Ring of Fire". Hank Williams Jr.: The son of country legend Hank Williams, Hank Jr. pursued his own successful career, becoming known for his rock-infused take on country music. Hits include "All My Rowdy Friends Are Coming Over Tonight" and "A Country Boy Can Survive". Tompall Glaser: A member of the influential Glaser Brothers trio, Tompall Glaser was also a highly respected solo artist in his own right. His hit song "Put Another Log on the Fire (Male Chauvinist National Anthem)" became a cultural touchstone for its humorous and controversial lyrics. David Allan Coe: A larger-than-life figure with a penchant for controversy, David Allan Coe's songs often dealt with taboo subjects like drugs and prison life. Hits include "You Never Even Called Me by My Name" and "Longhaired Redneck". Jerry Jeff Walker: Known for his folksy, laid-back style and catchy storytelling, Jerry Jeff Walker helped popularize the outlaw sound with songs like "Mr. Bojangles" and "Sangria Wine". Billy Joe Shaver: With a rough-edged, blue-collar sound and a gift for storytelling, Billy Joe Shaver became a respected artist and songwriter in the Outlaw Country scene. His hits include "Georgia on a Fast Train" and "Live Forever".

1. "Wanted! The Outlaws" - Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, Jessi Colter, and Tompall Glaser 2. "Red Headed Stranger" - Willie Nelson 3. "Honky Tonk Heroes" - Waylon Jennings 4. "At Folsom Prison" - Johnny Cash 5. "Lonesome, On'ry and Mean" - Waylon Jennings 6. "Shotgun Willie" - Willie Nelson 7. "Guitars, Cadillacs, Etc., Etc." - Dwight Yoakam 8. "Pancho & Lefty" - Willie Nelson and Merle Haggard 9. "The Silver Tongued Devil and I" - Kris Kristofferson 10. "To Lefty From Willie" - Willie Nelson 11. "The Essential Johnny Cash" - Johnny Cash 12. "Honeysuckle Rose" - Willie Nelson 13. "The Essential Waylon Jennings" - Waylon Jennings 14. "Highwayman" - The Highwaymen 15. "Old Habits Die Hard" - Waylon Jennings 16. "Greatest Hits Volume 1" - Johnny Cash 17. "Stardust" - Willie Nelson 18. "Tulare Dust: A Songwriters' Tribute to Merle Haggard" - Various Artists 19. "The Road Goes on Forever" - The Highwaymen 20. "Outlaw Country: 25 of the Greatest Hits" - Various Artists 21. "Copperhead Road" - Steve Earle 22. "Essential Kris Kristofferson" - Kris Kristofferson 23. "Dreaming My Dreams" - Waylon Jennings 24. "The Essential Merle Haggard" - Merle Haggard 25. "Cowboy Jack Clement's Home Movies: Let's All Help the Cowboys (And Cowgirls) - Little Jimmy Dickens, Johnny Cash, and Waylon Jennings.

One of the most famous books on the subject is "Outlaw: Waylon, Willie, Kris, and the Renegades of Nashville" by Michael Streissguth. This book explores the lives and careers of Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, and Kris Kristofferson, who are considered the pioneers of outlaw country. The book also delves into the larger cultural and political contexts of the sub-genre, highlighting its significance as a form of rebellion against the mainstream. In the book, Streissguth quotes Waylon Jennings as saying, "Outlaws are not necessarily criminals, they're just outside of the law." This sentiment captures the essence of outlaw country, which celebrates those who live outside of society's norms and expectations. The book also includes insights from other musicians, critics, and industry insiders, shedding light on the broader impact of outlaw country on American music. Another notable book on outlaw country is "Country Rebels: How the Outlaws Changed Nashville" by Nick Tosches. In this book, Tosches examines the history of country music and the emergence of the outlaw sub-genre. He argues that outlaw country represented a radical departure from the mainstream country music of the time, challenging traditional values and commercialism. According to Tosches, "Outlaw country was a manifestation of that spirit of rebellion and nonconformity that would change this country more than anyone had ever imagined." This sentiment is echoed by many other writers and musicians who have commented on the impact of outlaw country on American culture. In addition to books, there have been numerous articles and essays written about outlaw country. One such essay is "Outlaws and Armadillos: The New Exhibit at the Country Music Hall of Fame" by Amanda Petrusich. In this piece, Petrusich explores the Country Music Hall of Fame's 2018 exhibit dedicated to outlaw country. She argues that the exhibit serves as a reminder of the sub-genre's cultural significance and enduring legacy. Petrusich also quotes various musicians and experts who offer their thoughts on outlaw country. For example, country musician Shooter Jennings says, "Outlaw country was really saying, 'Hey, let's get back to what country music is really about.' It's about the stories in the songs, it's about the soul of the people." This sentiment is echoed by many other musicians who have spoken about the importance of outlaw country as a form of authentic expression.

The roots of outlaw country date back to the mid-1960s, when artists such as Johnny Cash and Merle Haggard began incorporating themes of rebellion and anti-establishment sentiment into their music. However, it wasn't until the 1970s that the genre truly took off, thanks in part to the cultural and social climate of the time. The Vietnam War, ongoing civil rights struggles, and tensions between generations all contributed to a feeling of unrest and dissatisfaction with the status quo. Outlaw country tapped into this sentiment, catering to a growing audience of young people who identified with its rebellious ethos. This was a genre that spoke to the working-class experience, with its emphasis on themes such as hard work, hard living, and a disdain for authority. Record labels such as RCA, Columbia, and Capitol dominated the country music industry in the early 1970s, but they were slow to embrace the outlaw country movement. Instead, it was smaller independent labels such as Atlantic and Sun Records that provided a platform for artists to explore their own styles without the pressure of conforming to industry standards. Journalists and music critics also played a significant role in the development of outlaw country. Rolling Stone magazine, which launched in 1967, championed the genre and provided a platform for its stars, including Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, and Kris Kristofferson. Other publications, such as Creem and Crawdaddy, also helped raise awareness of the movement and its various artists. Technological advancements in recording technology also allowed for greater experimentation and creative freedom. Long playing vinyl records and advancements in multi-track recording allowed musicians to take more risks and create more complex, layered compositions than ever before. Perhaps the most defining characteristic of outlaw country was the sense of community that existed among its artists. Musicians such as Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, and Kris Kristofferson collaborated frequently, both musically and socially. They lived together, socialized together, and supported each other's artistic endeavors. This network of like-minded individuals helped create a sense of identity and purpose for the movement, and it was this sense of community that drove the music forward during its heyday.