Waylon Jennings: A Country Music Rebel and His Timeless Classic
Waylon Jennings, a legendary figure in country music, was known for his rebellious spirit, distinctive voice, and outlaw image. His music often challenged the conventions of the genre, blending traditional country with elements of rock and roll.
One of his most iconic songs, “Mammas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys,” is a poignant ballad that explores the hardships and dangers of the cowboy lifestyle.
Background
Released in 1973, “Mammas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys” is a heartfelt and melancholic song. Jennings’s deep, resonant voice, combined with the song’s somber melody, creates a powerful and emotive listening experience.
The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the harsh realities of life on the range, highlighting the dangers and sacrifices that cowboys make.
Jennings’s ability to convey raw emotion and vulnerability has made him a beloved figure in country music. His distinctive voice, often described as “raspy” or “gravelly,” adds a layer of authenticity and depth to his performances.
“Mammas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys” is a prime example of Jennings’s talent as a vocalist and his ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level.
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
[Verse 1: Waylon Jennings & Willie Nelson]
Cowboys ain’t easy to love
And they’re harder to hold
They’d rather give you a song
Than diamonds or gold
Lonestar belt buckles and old faded Levis
And each night begins a new day
If you don’t understand him and he don’t die young
He’ll probably just ride away[Chorus: Waylon Jennings & Willie Nelson]
Mamas, don’t let your babies grow up to be cowboys
Don’t let ’em pick guitars or drive them old trucks
Let ’em be doctors and lawyers and such
Mamas don’t let your babies grow up to be cowboys
‘Cause they’ll never stay home and they’re always alone
Even with someone they love[Verse 2: Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, & Both]
Cowboys like smoky old pool rooms
And clear mountain mornings
Little warm puppies and children
And girls of the night
Them that don’t know him
Won’t like him and them that do
Sometimes won’t know how to take him
He ain’t wrong, he’s just different
But his pride won’t let him
Do things to make you think he’s right