In 2015, a moment of pure country music history unfolded on the stage of the Moody Theater in Austin, Texas. A constellation of country music’s brightest stars gathered to celebrate the indelible legacy of Waylon Jennings in a tribute concert for the ages. This wasn’t just another tribute show; it was a powerful homage, later broadcast by CMT as Outlaw: Celebrating the Music of Waylon Jennings, bringing the electrifying performances to a wider audience beyond the Lone Star State.
The evening was packed with memorable moments. Eric Church delivered a raw and soulful rendition of “Lonesome, On’ry and Mean,” while Chris Stapleton, joined by his wife Morgane, offered a heartfelt take on “I Ain’t Living Long Like This.” The unexpected duet of “I Can Get Off on You” by Willie Nelson and Sturgill Simpson was a masterclass in collaborative artistry. Yet, it was the grand finale, the collective performance of the iconic “Luckenbach, Texas (Back to the Basics of Love),” that truly stole the show.
“Luckenbach, Texas song,” penned by Chips Moman and Bobby Emmons, first graced the airwaves in 1977 as the lead single from Jennings’ acclaimed Ol’ Waylon album. Despite becoming one of his signature hits and a beloved anthem, Jennings himself held a somewhat ambivalent relationship with the song. Famously quoted saying, “I knew it was a hit song, even though I didn’t like it, and still don’t,” his personal feelings didn’t diminish the song’s impact on country music.
The tribute concert performance of “Luckenbach, Texas song” was a joyous explosion of talent. Imagine witnessing Toby Keith, Sturgill Simpson, Kacey Musgraves, Willie Nelson, Kris Kristofferson, Chris and Morgane Stapleton, Alison Krauss, Jamey Johnson, and Ryan Bingham all sharing the stage, united by their respect for Jennings and the infectious charm of this classic tune. This wasn’t just a cover; it was a vibrant reimagining, infused with the individual styles of each artist while staying true to the heart of the “Luckenbach, Texas song.”
This legendary performance serves as a potent reminder of the enduring power of Waylon Jennings’ music and the profound influence he had on generations of country artists. The “Luckenbach, Texas song” segment from the Outlaw tribute is more than just a performance; it’s a testament to the unifying spirit of music and the timeless appeal of a song that, ironically, its own singer claimed not to love. It’s a moment worth revisiting and celebrating, a snapshot of country music history that continues to resonate with fans today.
