About the song
In 1978, Waylon Jennings found himself at a crossroads both personally and professionally within the tumultuous landscape of outlaw country music. Despite achieving remarkable success with three consecutive #1 studio albums, a chart-topping live album, and a celebrated duet record with Willie Nelson, Jennings was grappling with disillusionment. The outlaw movement, initially a rebellion against Nashville’s constraints in favor of artistic freedom, had propelled him to stardom but also burdened him with unwelcome fame and the trappings of excess.
Central to Jennings’ turmoil was his escalating cocaine addiction, a habit that consumed him to alarming extents. His own confession revealed the severity: “I wasn’t just doing a little drugs. I was doing them constantly… I was killing myself.” This destructive pattern reached a critical point when he was caught in a drug bust at American Sound Studios in 1977. Though the legal fallout was mitigated, the incident thrust Jennings into a media maelstrom, exacerbating his internal battles and reinforcing his rebellious image in the public eye.
Amidst these personal struggles, Jennings channeled his turmoil into his music, releasing defiant albums like “I’ve Always Been Crazy” and “What Goes Around Comes Around.” Critics and fans alike recognized these albums not just as musical statements but as reflections of Jennings’ defiant spirit and resilience. Nick Toches described “I’ve Always Been Crazy” as a farewell to outlawry, marking a transition in Jennings’ career and personal narrative.
Musically, the albums continued to showcase Jennings’ distinctive style—a potent blend of country authenticity with rebellious grit. Thom Jurek of AllMusic lauded “I’ve Always Been Crazy,” noting its enduring appeal and lyrical depth, underscoring its significance for outlaw country aficionados and Jennings’ loyal fanbase.
Despite the turbulence of addiction and media scrutiny, Jennings’ artistic output remained robust, fueled by his unyielding commitment to his craft. His resilience in the face of personal turmoil and professional pressures cemented his status not just as a country icon but as a symbol of artistic integrity and perseverance in the ever-evolving landscape of American music.
As Jennings navigated the complexities of fame and addiction, his music continued to resonate, offering solace and solidarity to fans who embraced his outlaw persona and celebrated his unapologetic authenticity. Through his trials and triumphs, Waylon Jennings left an indelible mark on country music, embodying the enduring spirit of the outlaw movement and inspiring generations of musicians to follow their own paths, wherever they may lead.
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Lyrics
I’ve always been crazy and the trouble that it’s put me through
Been busted for things that I did and I didn’t do
I can’t say I’m proud of all of the things that I’ve done
But I can say I’ve never intentionally hurt anyone
I’ve always been different with one foot over the line
Winding up somewhere one step ahead or behind
It ain’t been so easy but I guess I shouldn’t complain
I’ve always been crazy but it’s kept me from going insane
Beautiful lady, are you sure that you understand
The chances your taking loving a free living man
Are you really sure, you really want what you see
Be careful of something that’s just what you want it to be
I’ve always been crazy but it’s kept me from going insane
Nobody knows if it’s something to bless or to blame
So far I ain’t found a rhyme or a reason to change
I’ve always been crazy but it’s kept me from going insane