About the song
Released in 1975, “Storms Never Last” by Waylon Jennings is a poignant ballad that reflects the deep emotional and philosophical nature of the artist’s music. The song appeared on Jennings’ album Dreaming My Dreams, a record that marks a significant point in his career, capturing the essence of his transition from the traditional country music scene to a more personal and introspective sound that became the hallmark of his Outlaw Country movement.
“Storms Never Last” is a beautiful and melancholy song that deals with the theme of life’s transient difficulties. In the song, Waylon Jennings uses the metaphor of a storm to represent personal hardships, heartbreak, and the struggles of life. Yet, the central message of the song is one of hope and resilience. The title itself, “Storms Never Last”, suggests that, no matter how intense or overwhelming life’s challenges may feel in the moment, they will pass, and better times will follow. This is an optimistic outlook rooted in the experience of going through difficult times and coming out stronger on the other side.
The song’s tender, yet powerful delivery—accentuated by Jennings’ distinctive voice—captures the listener’s attention and emotion. His gravelly, weathered voice feels like an instrument that has been honed by years of experience and reflection, adding a sense of authenticity and sincerity to the lyrics. The gentle instrumentation of “Storms Never Last”, with its acoustic guitar and understated orchestration, serves as the perfect backdrop to the song’s themes of heartache and renewal. The simple yet moving melody supports the lyrical message, leaving room for the emotional weight of the words to shine through.
In terms of social and cultural impact, “Storms Never Last” holds a particular significance in the context of the Outlaw Country movement of the 1970s. This genre, led by Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, and others, was characterized by its rejection of Nashville’s polished, commercial sound in favor of a more raw, authentic approach to country music. Jennings became an iconic figure within this movement, and “Storms Never Last” is a perfect example of his ability to blend personal vulnerability with the rebellious spirit of Outlaw Country. The song resonated with listeners who were looking for a more real and relatable form of country music, and it became a part of the soundtrack for those who felt disconnected from mainstream country.
Lyrically, “Storms Never Last” is also a reflection of Jennings’ own life. At the time of its release, Jennings was facing personal struggles, including the ups and downs of relationships, the pressures of fame, and the challenges of living a life that often felt out of his control. This added layer of personal context to the song made it all the more powerful for his fans, who found solace in the honesty and relatability of the message. Jennings’ ability to express vulnerability in such a raw and poetic way was one of the reasons he became a beloved figure in country music.
While “Storms Never Last” didn’t receive the same level of commercial success as some of Jennings’ bigger hits, it has since become a fan favorite and a staple of his live performances. Over the years, the song has continued to resonate with listeners due to its timeless message of perseverance, resilience, and the inevitability of change. The song’s staying power reflects Jennings’ ability to capture universal truths and emotions through his music—truths that continue to speak to listeners across generations.
In conclusion, “Storms Never Last” is a standout track in Waylon Jennings’ illustrious career. Its poignant lyrics, combined with Jennings’ emotive performance, make it a deeply moving and memorable song. More than just a country ballad, it is a reflection on life’s challenges and the hope that the hard times will pass, just as storms eventually do. Through this song, Jennings once again proves why he remains a legend in country music—his ability to convey deep emotional truths with such simplicity and authenticity is unmatched. “Storms Never Last” continues to be a timeless anthem for anyone who has weathered a storm in life and found the strength to keep moving forward.
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Lyrics
Storms never last, do they, babe?Bad times all pass with the windsYour hand in mine stills the thunderAnd you make the sun want to shineI followed you down so many roads, babyI picked wild flowers and sung you soft sad songsAnd every road you took I know your search was for the truthAnd the clouds brewin’ now won’t be the lastStorms never last, do they, babe?Bad times all pass with the windsYour hand in mine stills the thunderAnd your love makes the sun want to shineHmm hmm hmmStorms never last, do they, babe?Bad times all pass with the windsYour hand in mine stills the thunderAnd You make the sun want to shine