That 1995 Waylon Jennings interview is an absolute gem—raw, honest, and a total masterclass in artistic integrity. It’s wild to think how ahead of his time he was, questioning the formulaic machine of Nashville when most artists were just trying to keep their heads down and play by the rules.
Waylon’s words about being treated like just “a number in a computer” by the record labels hit hard, especially today when algorithms and data-driven decisions still dominate. But even back then, his frustration with the industry’s obsession with conformity—same studios, same producers, same “Nashville Sound”—spoke volumes about his determination to carve out something more authentic.
His stance on creative freedom, blending rock and roll into country, and daring to ask “Why?” in a system that hated the question really shows why he became a cornerstone of the outlaw country movement. And his quote about being called a troublemaker just for having his own ideas? Classic Waylon.
And the fact that he casually mentioned writing “Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way?” while driving? Legendary.
