About the song
Waylon Jennings and “Lonesome, On’ry and Mean”
Waylon Jennings was a country music outlaw. He was known for his rebellious spirit and his unique sound, which blended traditional country with elements of rock and roll. Jennings was also a gifted songwriter, and his songs often reflected his own personal experiences.
One of Jennings’ most famous songs is “Lonesome, On’ry and Mean.” The song was written by Steve Young, but Jennings made it his own with his powerful vocals and charismatic delivery. The song tells the story of a man who is down on his luck and feeling sorry for himself. He’s lost his job, his wife has left him, and he’s drinking too much. But even though he’s at a low point, he’s not giving up. He’s determined to get back on his feet and make a better life for himself.
“Lonesome, On’ry and Mean” is a classic country song that has stood the test of time. It’s a song about resilience and hope, and it’s a reminder that even when things are tough, there’s always a chance to start over.
The song was released in 1973 as the title track of Jennings’ album of the same name. It was a critical and commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. The song has been covered by many artists, including Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, and Kris Kristofferson.
“Lonesome, On’ry and Mean” is a Waylon Jennings signature song. It’s a powerful and moving ballad that perfectly captures the outlaw spirit. The song is a classic of country music, and it continues to be enjoyed by fans around the world.
Here are some additional details about the song:
- The song was written by Steve Young, but Jennings made it his own with his powerful vocals and charismatic delivery.
- The song tells the story of a man who is down on his luck and feeling sorry for himself. He’s lost his job, his wife has left him, and he’s drinking too much. But even though he’s at a low point, he’s not giving up. He’s determined to get back on his feet and make a better life for himself.
- “Lonesome, On’ry and Mean” is a classic country song that has stood the test of time. It’s a song about resilience and hope, and it’s a reminder that even when things are tough, there’s always a chance to start over.
Here are some interesting facts about the song:
- The song was inspired by Jennings’ own experiences. He was going through a tough time in his personal life, and he poured his emotions into the song.
- The song was recorded in RCA’s Studio B in Nashville, Tennessee.
- The song was produced by Chet Atkins.
- The song was released as the lead single from Jennings’ album of the same name.
- The song reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart.
- The song has been covered by many artists, including Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, and Kris Kristofferson.
- “Lonesome, On’ry and Mean” is a Waylon Jennings signature song. It’s a powerful and moving ballad that perfectly captures the outlaw spirit. The song is a classic of country music, and it continues to be enjoyed by fans around the world.
Video
Lyrics
“Lonesome, On’ry And Mean”
On a Greyhound bus Lord I’m travelin’ this morning
I’m goin’ to Shreveport and down to New Orleans
Been travlin’ these highways and doin’ things my way
It’s been making me lonesome on’ry and mean.God her hair was jet black and her name was Bodine
Thought she was the queen of the Basin Street Queens
She got tired of that smoky-wine dream
She began to feel lonesome on’ry and mean.We got together and we cashed in our sweeps
Gave onto beggar who was mumblin’ through the streets
There’s no escaping from his snowy white dream
On’ry and lonesome on’ry and mean.I’m down in this valley where the wheels turn so low
At dawn I pray to the Lord of my soul
I say do Lord do right by me you know
I’m tired of being lonesome on’ry and mean…