50 Years Ago: Waylon Jennings Hits #1 For The First Time
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Waylon Jenningsâ song âThis Time,â released in 1974, stands as a seminal track in the landscape of country music.
Written by Jennings himself, it marked a significant turning point in his career, not only as a performer but also as a songwriter and a beacon of the Outlaw Country movement.
âThis Timeâ was penned during a period of transformation for Jennings, who was beginning to assert more creative control over his music. The song’s lyrics reflect themes of personal change and determination, resonating with Jenningsâ life as he navigated the music industry’s demands. The line “This time, if you want me to come back, it’s up to you” captures a defiant stance, emblematic of Jenningsâ growing independence and the rebellious spirit of Outlaw Country.
Recorded at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville, âThis Timeâ featured a blend of traditional country instrumentation with a rock-influenced edge, a hallmark of Jenningsâ style. Compared to the lush orchestration typical of Nashville at the time, the production was stripped down, allowing Jenningsâ distinctive voice and the songâs raw emotion to shine through.
Upon its release, âThis Timeâ achieved significant commercial success. It climbed to number 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart on June 22, 1974, marking Jenningsâ first chart-topping single as a solo artist. This success was a critical milestone, solidifying his place among country music’s elite and validating his shift towards greater artistic freedom. The song’s popularity helped Jennings’ album, also titled This Time, to reach audiences nationwide, reinforcing his influence in the genre.
âThis Timeâ was more than just a commercial hit; it was a cultural statement. It encapsulated the spirit of the Outlaw Country movement, which sought to break free from the polished, mainstream Nashville sound and embrace a more authentic, rebellious approach to country music. Jennings and contemporaries like Willie Nelson and Johnny Cash became pioneers of this movement, influencing countless artists and reshaping the genre.
The song’s impact extended beyond the charts. It symbolized Jennings’ break from the traditional constraints of the music industry, allowing him to explore and innovate freely. “This Time” also resonated deeply with fans who saw in Jenningsâ music a reflection of their own struggles and aspirations.
In the broader context of Jenningsâ career, âThis Timeâ represents a defining moment when he truly found his voice as an artist. It set the stage for a prolific period to see him release a string of successful albums and singles, further cementing his legacy as a cornerstone of country music. “This Time” was produced by Jennings’ close friend Willie Nelson.
Waylon Jenningsâ âThis Timeâ remains a powerful testament to his artistic vision and enduring influence. Its success on the charts and its cultural and personal significance underscores why Jennings is celebrated as a trailblazer who helped redefine country music for generations to come.
Watch Waylon perform his first-ever #1 hit, “This Time,” below.
