Outlaw Country
Outlaw Country is the rowdy cousin of mainstream country music. Born in the late ‘60s, this genre tossed the rulebook out the window. The musicians went against the grain of the country music establishment, thus earning their “outlaw” badge.
Table of Contents
The Outlaw Origins
Outlaw Country emerged in the late ‘60s and early ‘70s as a backlash against the polished, overproduced Nashville sound. Artists like Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, and Johnny Cash said “heck no” to the glitz and glamour and started crafting raw, authentic tunes that spoke to the rugged individualism of the American spirit.
The Instruments Behind the Infamy
In the Outlaw Country lineup, the steel guitar takes a back seat. Instead, these renegades favor acoustic guitars, harmonicas, and fiddles. You might even hear some electric guitars cranked up for that extra shot of rebellion.
Outlaw Anthems
You can’t talk about Outlaw Country without tippin’ your hat to songs like “Mamas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys” by Waylon & Willie, or Johnny Cash’s “Folsom Prison Blues.” These songs ain’t just hits; they’re the lifeblood of the genre, touchin’ on themes of freedom, rebellion, and payin’ the price for livin’ life your own dang way.
The Outlaw Revival
Artists like Sturgill Simpson, Jason Isbell, and Chris Stapleton are keepin’ the outlaw spirit alive and kickin’. They’re adding new layers to the legacy, fusing Outlaw with rock, blues, and even some psychedelic spice.
Your Starter Playlist
- “Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way” – Waylon Jennings
- “On the Road Again” – Willie Nelson
- “Ring of Fire” – Johnny Cash
- “Merry Go ‘Round” – Kacey Musgraves
- “Tennessee Whiskey” – Chris Stapleton
FAQ
Why’s It Called “Outlaw” Country?
The term “Outlaw” signifies the genre’s rebel spirit. These musicians weren’t outlaws in the literal sense, but they sure did break the musical rules of the time. They went against the grain of the country music establishment, thus earning their “outlaw” badge.
What Makes a Song an “Outlaw Anthem”?
An Outlaw anthem usually deals with themes of freedom, non-conformity, and hard living. And it’s not just the lyrics; it’s the whole attitude.
Are there Famous Women in Outlaw Country Music?
Jessi Colter, Emmylou Harris, and even modern artists like Kacey Musgraves are women who’ve shot down the country norms to make their own path.
