About the song
There are few voices in country music as unmistakable—or as unapologetically honest—as **Waylon Jennings**. A true pioneer of the outlaw country movement, Jennings spent his career carving out a place outside the mainstream, favoring grit over gloss and authenticity over industry polish. Nowhere is that spirit more evident than in his 1978 hit, **“I’ve Always Been Crazy”**. More than just a song, it’s a defiant declaration of identity, a personal manifesto wrapped in a driving rhythm and worn-in honesty.
**Waylon Jennings – I’ve Always Been Crazy** is not a typical country ballad, nor is it a polished radio single designed to play it safe. Instead, it’s raw, self-reflective, and boldly introspective. With lyrics like *“I’ve always been crazy but it’s kept me from going insane,”* Jennings isn’t just trying to shock the listener—he’s letting you in on his truth. It’s a statement that embraces contradictions, acknowledging the chaos of a life lived on the edge while also recognizing the clarity that can come from walking your own path.
Musically, the song leans into a rugged, stripped-down sound that’s anchored by electric guitar twang and a steady, driving beat. Jennings’ vocal delivery is as compelling as ever—gravelly, world-weary, and yet deeply assured. There’s no pretension here; just a man telling you how it is, without apology. That honesty, more than anything, is what makes **“I’ve Always Been Crazy”** resonate, even decades after its release.
It’s important to remember the context in which Jennings released this song. By the late ’70s, he was already a rebel icon, a man who had famously rejected Nashville’s cookie-cutter approach in favor of artistic freedom. **Waylon Jennings – I’ve Always Been Crazy** reflects that hard-earned independence. It’s not only autobiographical, it’s emblematic of an entire movement in country music—a movement defined by artists who refused to conform.
For older listeners, or for anyone who appreciates music with soul and backbone, this song is a reminder of a time when country artists didn’t just sing about life—they lived every word of it. **“I’ve Always Been Crazy”** captures the essence of Jennings’ journey: wild, unpredictable, but always rooted in truth. It’s a standout piece in a legendary career, and a masterclass in what it means to stay true to yourself, no matter the cost.
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Lyrics
I’ve always been crazy and the trouble that it’s put me through
Been busted for things that I did and I didn’t do
I can’t say I’m proud of all of the things that I’ve done
But I can say I’ve never intentionally hurt anyone
I’ve always been different with one foot over the line
Winding up somewhere one step ahead or behind
It ain’t been so easy but I guess I shouldn’t complain
I’ve always been crazy but it’s kept me from going insane
Beautiful lady, are you sure that you understand
The chances your taking loving a free living man
Are you really sure, you really want what you see
Be careful of something that’s just what you want it to be
I’ve always been crazy but it’s kept me from going insane
Nobody knows if it’s something to bless or to blame
So far I ain’t found a rhyme or a reason to change
I’ve always been crazy but it’s kept me from going insane
