The charismatic stage presence of Waylon Jennings simply cannot be beat.
Y’all guessed it; I am still in the midst of my Austin City Limits archive obsession.
However, Waylon Jennings cannot go overlooked.
Depending on who you talk to, you could make the argument that Waylon Jennings is the greatest country music star of all time. The Country Music Hall of Fame inductee and a pioneer in the outlaw country music movement, Jennings’ contributions to the industry are unmatched.
This 1989 performance for Austin City Limits was a big one for Jennings as he had just overcome some hardships with his health and addiction. Months before he took this stage, he kicked his six-pack-a-day cigarette habit and underwent major heart surgery.
“I’m A Ramblin’ Man”
On top of his health issues, Jennings was also in-between labels at this time. He had a lot riding on this performance to show labels that he could still captivate and connect with his audience.
“Me and Bobby McGee”
This taping during 1989 was when Jennings scaled back his career and focused on himself. He went back to school, got his GED, got clean, and began focusing on his family.
This performance highlights Jennings’ best hits, raw talent, fantastic stage presence, and chemistry with his band.
You’re missing out if you don’t listen to the whole performance.
