About the song
“I’ve Always Been Crazy” is a significant studio album by Waylon Jennings, released in 1978 on RCA Victor. This record marked a critical juncture in Jennings’ career and personal life, encapsulating the complexities of his journey through fame, rebellion, and addiction.
By the late 1970s, Jennings had become an emblem of the outlaw country movement, a defiant stance against the polished conventions of Nashville’s music industry. Despite achieving remarkable success with multiple chart-topping albums and singles, including collaborations with Willie Nelson, Jennings found himself increasingly disillusioned with the commercialization of his music and the pressures of fame. His personal life was also spiraling due to a severe cocaine addiction, which he candidly described as consuming and detrimental to his health.
The album’s title track, “I’ve Always Been Crazy,” served as both a declaration and a reflection of Jennings’ state of mind. It encapsulated his unyielding spirit and refusal to conform to industry norms, even as he navigated turbulent personal struggles. The song resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike, contributing to the album’s success and reaffirming Jennings’ status as a rebellious icon within country music.
Released amidst public scrutiny following a highly publicized drug bust, the album not only withstood the media frenzy but also thrived commercially. Jennings’ defiance in the face of adversity seemed to fuel his creative output, with subsequent singles and albums continuing to soar on the charts.
Critically, “I’ve Always Been Crazy” garnered positive reviews for its raw energy and lyrical depth. Thom Jurek of AllMusic praised the album for maintaining Jennings’ signature edge while exploring deeper themes, making it essential for fans of outlaw country and admirers of Jennings’ artistry.
Despite the personal turmoil and professional challenges Jennings faced during its creation, “I’ve Always Been Crazy” remains a testament to his enduring legacy. It stands as a poignant chapter in the evolution of outlaw country, showcasing Jennings’ unwavering commitment to authenticity and artistic freedom amid the tumultuous landscape of the music industry. The album not only solidified Jennings’ place in country music history but also continues to resonate with listeners as a powerful testament to resilience and rebellion.
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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