The Essential Waylon Jennings

iTunes Review

Waylon Jennings’ ride into the rebel side has become the stuff of legend. His transformation from well-behaved Nashville star into dashing Lone Star outlaw opened the door for countless other mavericks to follow. The Essential Waylon Jennings arranges his key hits (and significant lesser tracks) in chronological order to form a compelling musical autobiography. There are recurring themes in these 42 tracks, including Jennings’ search for creative freedom, his complex relationships with women, and his struggles to maintain his integrity. There’s a deep pleasure in hearing how his music gained color and authority as he drew upon acoustic folk, early rock, and traditional Western balladry for inspiration. ‘60s hits like “Anita, You’re Dreaming” and “The Chokin’ Kind” hint at the emotional resonance that would fully emerge in ‘70s classics like “Luckenbach, Texas” and “Honky Tonk Heroes.” The rascality of “Good Hearted Woman” and “The Taker” is balanced by the poignancy of “The Wurlitzer Prize” and “Amanda.” Waylon’s rugged baritone and swaggering persona are an irresistible combination — you forgive his sins and cheer his victories. Taken collectively, these tracks tell one of country music’s greatest stories in timeless fashion.