Renegade Picker cover

Released 50 years ago

Renegade Picker

Steve Young · 1976

41 min · 11 tracks · country music

A raw and reflective blend of country storytelling infused with a touch of rock and folk sensibilities.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Renegade Picker — The title track serves as a manifesto of sorts, capturing Young's spirit of independence and rebellion within the country genre.
  • →
    Tobacco Road — This cover showcases Young's ability to reinterpret classic songs, blending gritty vocals with a modern arrangement that resonates with both traditional and contemporary listeners.
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    Lonesome, On’ry and Mean — A poignant reflection on loneliness and resilience, this track highlights Young's storytelling prowess and emotional depth, making it a memorable highlight of the album.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • introspective storytelling for reflection
  • short tracks for quick enjoyment
  • nostalgic themes of lost love
  • raw honesty in emotional delivery
  • for casual gatherings

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking high-energy dance tracks
  • prefer complex, lengthy compositions

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1976, Renegade Picker was Steve Young's fourth studio album, following his previous work Rock, Salt & Nails. At this point in his career, Young was establishing himself as a significant voice in the country genre, moving away from the traditional sounds to incorporate more personal and introspective themes into his songwriting.
Stylistic neighbors
Townes Van Zandt· Guy Clark· John Prine

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Renegade Picker 3:12
  • 2 I Can’t Be Myself 3:17
  • 3 Old Memories Mean Nothing to Me 3:17
  • 4 It’s Not Supposed to Be That Way 3:43
  • 5 Tobacco Road 3:43
  • 6 Light of My Life 4:07
  • 7 Lonesome, On’ry and Mean 3:17
  • 8 All Her Lovers Want to Be the Hero 3:29
  • 9 Broken Hearted People (Take Me to a Barroom) 4:10
  • 10 Sweet Thing 2:56
  • 11 Home Sweet Home Revisited 5:56

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata