Introduction:
A Country Rebel Yells “Howdy!” – The Story of Waylon Jennings’ “Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way”
Waylon Jennings’ “Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way” isn’t just a catchy tune – it’s a shot across the bow of Nashville’s establishment country music. Released in 1975, the song arrived at a time when country music was undergoing a major shift. The smooth, polished “politan” sound dominated the charts, a stark contrast to the rough-and-tumble roots of the genre.
Jennings, known for his outlaw country persona, was a champion of the music’s grittier side. Here, he throws down the gauntlet with the opening line: “They say Hank Williams wouldn’t know me / If he saw me comin’.” Hank Williams, a revered country pioneer, embodied the raw honesty Jennings felt was missing from the scene.
The song isn’t just a critique, though. It’s also a declaration of Jennings’ own artistic vision. Lines like “I sing what I feel, and I feel what I see” establish his commitment to authenticity, even if it means going against the grain. The playful yet pointed title, “Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way,” challenges the industry to consider whether their sanitized version of country music truly reflected the genre’s legacy.
The song’s impact was undeniable. It became Jennings’ fourth number-one hit as a solo artist, a testament to the strong feelings it resonated with in both fans and fellow musicians. “Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way” is more than just a song; it’s a battle cry for artistic freedom and a reminder of country music’s rebellious spirit. As you listen, prepare to be transported to a time when a legendary outlaw took a stand for the music he loved, forever changing the landscape of country music.