About the song
A Country Music Staple: Waylon Jennings’ “Jack-A-Diamonds”
In the annals of country music, few names resonate with the same rebellious spirit and heartfelt twang as Waylon Jennings. A true outlaw of the genre, Jennings carved his own path, infusing traditional sounds with a raw, untamed energy that resonated with audiences far and wide. Among his many enduring classics, “Jack-A-Diamonds” stands out as a prime example of his storytelling prowess and musical mastery.
A Tale of Love, Loss, and Redemption
Released in 1976 as part of the album “Are You Ready for the Country,” “Jack-A-Diamonds” is a hauntingly beautiful ballad that weaves a tale of love, loss, and redemption. The song’s protagonist, a down-and-out gambler named Jack, finds solace in the arms of a kind-hearted woman named Mary. But their fragile happiness is shattered when Jack’s past catches up with him, leading to a tragic turn of events.
Jennings’ Unparalleled Vocal Delivery
Jennings’ vocals on “Jack-A-Diamonds” are nothing short of masterful. His voice, imbued with a world-weariness that belies his age, perfectly captures the desperation and longing of a man haunted by his mistakes. Yet, there’s also an undercurrent of hopefulness that runs through the song, a testament to Jack’s belief in the possibility of redemption.
A Timeless Classic
“Jack-A-Diamonds” has become a staple of Jennings’ repertoire, a song that continues to touch the hearts of country music fans worldwide. Its enduring popularity is a testament to Jennings’ songwriting genius and his ability to craft stories that resonate with the human experience. Whether you’re a seasoned country music aficionado or a casual listener, “Jack-A-Diamonds” is a song that will stay with you long after the final note fades away.
Video
Lyrics
“Jack-A-Diamonds”
Jack of diamonds, Jack of diamonds, take my money
You can have my life of luxury
You can have my precious silver, studded saddle, ohh
But you can not take my soul, can not take my soul todaySweet mamma, oh sweet mamma, won’t you say you love me
Let me hold you, hold you in my arms
Please tell me I’m not really falling to pieces
Keep me tender mamma, tender now, keep me warmJack of diamonds, Jack of diamonds, I still got my ace
If you want me to do it I can through it, right in your face
Go and take my precious silver, studded saddle, yeah
But you can not take my soul Lord, you can not take my soul today
Jack of diamonds, Jack of diamonds, I’m gonna be alright