Introduction
Waylon Jennings and the Honesty of “This Time”
Waylon Jennings built his career on songs that told the truth, and few embody that spirit better than “This Time.” Released in 1974, the song not only marked a turning point in Jennings’ career but also in the broader landscape of country music. While it earned the distinction of being his first No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, the real power of “This Time” lies in its emotional core. It is the sound of a man stripping away the weight of past mistakes and declaring, with both grit and hope, that he is finally ready to set things right.
By the early 1970s, Jennings had already established himself as a strong voice within the Nashville system, but he often bristled against the rigid controls of the industry. He longed for more creative freedom, and his frustrations mirrored the larger “outlaw” movement that was beginning to reshape country music. “This Time” captured that sense of independence. Written with honesty and directness, the lyrics speak of renewal and determination, with Jennings’ signature baritone delivering every line like a confession spoken across a table rather than sung from a stage.
The song’s simplicity is part of its genius. At just over two minutes long, it wastes no time with elaborate production or unnecessary flourishes. Instead, the focus rests squarely on Jennings’ voice and the conviction behind it. “This time if you want me to run, I’m gonna stay,” he declares, a line that resonates with anyone who has ever faced failure but still found the courage to try again. For listeners in 1974, it was a strikingly vulnerable moment from a man who projected toughness, and it gave the outlaw persona a new dimension.
When “This Time” climbed to the top of the charts, it did more than cement Jennings’ reputation as a hitmaker—it validated his belief that authenticity could resonate with the masses. The success gave him leverage to demand more control over his music, paving the way for albums like Dreaming My Dreams and Are You Ready for the Country, which would further define the outlaw sound. In this way, “This Time” was not just a song but a declaration of artistic freedom.
Even decades later, the song continues to hold its place as one of Jennings’ most powerful recordings. Fans and critics alike regard it as a moment when personal struggle and musical innovation aligned perfectly. It represents resilience, second chances, and the willingness to confront the past in order to build a better future.
Waylon Jennings left behind a catalog filled with grit, rebellion, and honesty, but “This Time” stands as a reminder of his ability to balance toughness with vulnerability. It is a song that doesn’t just chronicle a man’s promise to do better—it proves that music, at its best, can be both a personal confession and a universal anthem of hope.