Lonesome, On'ry and Mean cover

Lonesome, On'ry and Mean

Waylon Jennings · 1973

42 min · 13 tracks · rockabilly · country rock · outlaw country

A gritty blend of country rock and outlaw spirit, infused with heartfelt storytelling and raw emotion.

Why this album works

'Lonesome, On'ry and Mean' is significant for its role in establishing the outlaw country genre, influencing countless artists who sought to break away from the constraints of mainstream country music. The album features the hit single 'Me and Bobby McGee', which became a cultural touchstone and showcased Jennings' ability to combine personal storytelling with broader themes of freedom and heartache.
Best for
steady mid-tempo storytelling flow gritty emotional reflections on life for late-night drives
Context
Released in 1973, 'Lonesome, On'ry and Mean' was Waylon Jennings' breakthrough album that solidified his position in the outlaw country movement. This album followed his prior release, 'Honky Tonk Heroes', which had already begun to reshape traditional country music norms. With this project, Jennings fully embraced a sound that prioritized authenticity over commercial appeal.
Stylistic neighbors
Willie Nelson· Johnny Cash· Hank Williams Jr.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Lonesome, On’ry and Mean Standout 3:41
  • 2 Freedom to Stay 3:13
  • 3 Lay It Down 3:19
  • 4 Gone to Denver 2:32
  • 5 Good Time Charlie’s Got the Blues Standout 3:24
  • 6 You Can Have Her 2:44
  • 7 Pretend I Never Happened 3:05
  • 8 San Francisco Mabel Joy 3:51
  • 9 Sandy Sends Her Best 2:37
  • 10 Me and Bobby McGee Standout 4:41
  • 11 Laid Back Country Picker 3:16
  • 12 The Last One to Leave Seattle 3:27
  • 13 Big, Big Love 2:26

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata