Best Cody Jinks Songs: Unpacking the Outlaw Anthems of a Modern Maverick

Cody Jinks has carved a unique space in the Americana and country music scenes. Renowned for his independent spirit and no-frills approach, his music resonates deeply with fans seeking authenticity and raw emotion. From his metal band beginnings to his celebrated outlaw country persona, Jinks’ journey is as compelling as his songbook.

Here’s a countdown of 15 essential Cody Jinks Songs that showcase his evolution and solidify his place as a true musical force:

15. Holy Water

Opening his major label debut album, Lifers, “Holy Water” immediately sets the tone for Cody Jinks’ artistic declaration. It’s an anthem of defiance, establishing him as an outsider navigating a world of superficiality. The driving rhythm underscores his unwavering stance, as he sings of walking “on pins and needles among people I can’t even name,” a powerful statement of his independent path.

Cody Jinks performing live, backlit by stage lights, showcasing his outlaw country persona.

14. Must Be the Whiskey

As the lead single from Lifers, “Must Be the Whiskey” offers a candid, if slightly tongue-in-cheek, explanation for Cody Jinks’ rebellious nature. This track blends confession with confrontation, cleverly attributing his wild side to the influence of alcohol. The honesty in his delivery makes this song a relatable exploration of personal demons and accountability, resonating with listeners who appreciate his raw transparency.

13. Which One I Feed

Released alongside “The Wanting,” “Which One I Feed” is another assertive track that delves into themes of inner struggle and self-determination, core elements in many Cody Jinks songs. Jinks’ stoic delivery amplifies the song’s darker undertones, yet he manages to convey a compelling sense of conviction. The resolute refrain speaks to the ongoing battle within and the choices we make in facing our inner conflicts.

12. I’m Not the Devil

Later becoming the title track of a pivotal album in his career, “I’m Not the Devil” takes a step back from the outlaw image and reveals a more vulnerable side of Cody Jinks. This surprisingly tender ballad, by his standards, seeks understanding and sympathy, suggesting that his rough exterior doesn’t define his true self. It’s a testament to his range as an artist, proving he can deliver heartfelt ballads as effectively as his more rugged anthems.

11. All It Cost Me Was Everything

“All It Cost Me Was Everything” embodies the hard-luck narratives often found in Cody Jinks’ discography. Driven by a solid, stomping beat, the lyrics express a potent mix of regret and self-awareness. Lines like “I’ve been high, I’ve been low, been wound up tighter than a hangman’s rope” are delivered with a confessional honesty, acknowledging the consequences of his choices. This song is a raw reflection on life’s costs and the price of living on the edge.

10. The Way I Am

Cody Jinks lends his distinctive voice to “The Way I Am,” a classic originally penned by Sonny Throckmorton and popularized by Merle Haggard. Jinks’ interpretation feels deeply personal, using the song to make a direct statement about his own unyielding personality. He embraces the song’s message without apology, simply presenting “The Way I Am” as a matter of fact, aligning with his authentic and unapologetic artistic identity.

9. No Guarantees

“No Guarantees” is where Cody Jinks truly channels the spirit of Waylon Jennings, an icon of outlaw country music. From his gruff vocal delivery to the rollicking rhythm and the shimmering pedal steel guitar, the song exudes a classic outlaw vibe. It’s an anthem of independence and self-reliance, solidifying his upstart attitude. The message is clear: Cody Jinks plays by his own rules, offering “No Guarantees” but his own truth.

8. Same Kind of Crazy as Me

Sung with a straightforward, easy strum, “Same Kind of Crazy as Me” is another unapologetic declaration of Cody Jinks’ unconventional lifestyle. Lyrics like “Don’t go to church on Sunday, don’t go to work on Monday” are delivered with a shrug, leaving judgment to others. This song celebrates individuality and finding kinship with those who share a similar disregard for societal norms, a theme that resonates strongly within his fanbase.

7. Wish You Were Here

Perhaps an unexpected addition to Cody Jinks’ repertoire, his cover of Pink Floyd’s “Wish You Were Here” is surprisingly powerful. This austere rendition transforms the rock classic into a somber country soliloquy. His poignant vocal performance, combined with the haunting pedal steel, reveals a depth beyond his outlaw persona. It showcases his ability to interpret diverse material and make it distinctly his own, highlighting his versatility as an artist.

6. William and Wanda

In contrast to his often larger-than-life persona, “William and Wanda” offers a deeply personal glimpse into Cody Jinks’ life, inspired by his grandparents. This tender ballad is a genuine tearjerker, filled with an inherent and inescapable sadness. The poignant lyric “Meet our little boy who died on his birthday” is delivered with raw emotion, making it one of his most affecting songs. It demonstrates his capacity for profound empathy and storytelling through music.

5. Hippies and Cowboys

From his early album Less Wise, “Hippies and Cowboys” helped establish Cody Jinks’ musical ethos. Stalwart and direct, the song offers no excuses for his rebellious attitude, even acknowledging “I know that’s no way for a man to behave.” Yet, it remains a defiant defense of his chosen path. This track embodies his commitment to staying true to himself, regardless of expectations, cementing his renegade image early in his career.

4. The Wanting

The title track from the album of the same name, “The Wanting” captures a sense of longing and desire. The lyrics, “Like the sting or the burning of a slowly turning knife, I ache now just to hold you, make you feel my love,” are filled with yearning. The surging chorus maintains an intense energy, making it a powerful expression of emotional need and vulnerability, contrasting with his tougher exterior in other Cody Jinks songs.

3. After the Fire

Whether expressing anger or tenderness, Cody Jinks excels at conveying genuine emotion. “After the Fire” is a prime example of his softer side, a truly poignant love song. It’s an ode to a woman who brings him hope, redemption, and motivation to be a better person. This ballad highlights his ability to write and perform heartfelt love songs with the same conviction he brings to his outlaw anthems, demonstrating his emotional range.

2. Loud and Heavy

“Loud and Heavy” is a signature Cody Jinks song, conveying a palpable sense of unease and foreboding. It suggests a heavy burden and ongoing struggles, painting a picture of a man facing significant challenges. The ominous tone and lyrics hint at a lack of hope, making it a raw and powerful exploration of inner turmoil. This track resonates deeply with its unflinching portrayal of life’s darker aspects, solidifying its place among the best Cody Jinks songs.

1. Fast Hand

Even an outlaw can grapple with remorse, and “Fast Hand” sees Cody Jinks doing just that. In this narrative-driven song, he attempts to justify shooting a gunslinger, claiming self-defense. “Never meant to be a bad man,” he sings, portraying himself as a victim of circumstance. This track, while rooted in an outlaw tale, delves into themes of fate, morality, and the burden of choices, making it a compelling and thought-provoking Cody Jinks song that tops our list.

Listen to these best Cody Jinks songs and more on Holler’s playlist below:

Spotify Playlist

Explore More Cody Jinks:

Artist Profile – Cody Jinks

Written by Lee Zimmerman