Is The Taker/Tulsa a good place to start with Waylon Jennings?

Yes, The Taker/Tulsa is recommended as a starting point for new Waylon Jennings listeners. A blend of heartfelt storytelling and honky-tonk rhythms captures the essence of early '70s outlaw country. Released in February 1971, The Taker/Tulsa was Waylon Jennings' fourth studio album, coming at a time when he was transitioning into the outlaw country movement. This album followed his previous release, Waylon Jennings and the Waylors (1970), showcasing his growing confidence and distinctive style that would define his career.

Who is The Taker/Tulsa for?

The Taker/Tulsa works well if you're into heartfelt storytelling with authenticity, short narrative arc for focus and front-loaded emotional engagement.

How many songs are on The Taker/Tulsa?

The Taker/Tulsa has 10 tracks, running approximately 28 minutes.

The Taker/Tulsa

Waylon Jennings · 1971

28 min · 10 tracks · country music

A blend of heartfelt storytelling and honky-tonk rhythms captures the essence of early '70s outlaw country.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Taker Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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Sunday Mornin' Coming Down — This track is emblematic of Jennings’ storytelling prowess, capturing themes of reflection and existential yearning through vivid imagery and a compelling narrative arc.
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(Don't Let the Sun Set on You) Tulsa — The song's melancholic tone and memorable melody reflect Jennings' ability to convey deep emotion, making it a standout in his catalog and a fan favorite.
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Lovin' Her Was Easier (Than Anything I'll Ever Do Again) — This track highlights Jennings' signature blend of romantic longing and authenticity, showcasing the lyrical depth characteristic of his work during this era.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The album blends storytelling with honky-tonk rhythms, marking a key moment in outlaw country.

What we noticed

The first half of the album features a consistent honky-tonk rhythm, while the second half shifts to more introspective ballads.
Several tracks incorporate prominent pedal steel guitar, which enhances the traditional country sound.
The lyrics often tell vivid stories, with a focus on personal experiences and emotions, particularly in tracks like 'Sunday Mornin' Coming Down.'

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

heartfelt storytelling with authenticity
short narrative arc for focus
front-loaded emotional engagement
reflective moments for solitude

Maybe skip if you

seeking lengthy immersive experiences
prefer upbeat party tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This album marked a key transition into the outlaw country movement for Jennings.
Themes: romantic longing· Tulsa reflections· Sunday morning regret
Career context: Released in February 1971, The Taker/Tulsa was Waylon Jennings' fourth studio album, coming at a time when he was transitioning into the outlaw country movement. This album followed his previous release, Waylon Jennings and the Waylors (1970), showcasing his growing confidence and distinctive style that would define his career.
Stylistic neighbors: Willie Nelson· Johnny Cash· Merle Haggard