About the Song
Leave it to Waylon Jennings to take a line that sounds like a punchline and turn it into a defiant, unforgettable anthem. Released in 1983 on the collaborative album Waylon and Company, the track “I May Be Used (But Baby I Ain’t Used Up)” is Jennings at his most charismatic — a little weathered, a little wise, and absolutely unbothered by the passage of time.
At its core, the song is a celebration of resilience, swagger, and self-worth. With a wink and a growl, Waylon steps into the role of the seasoned cowboy — someone who may have seen better days but sure as hell isn’t done yet. The lyrics are sharp and clever, filled with humor and pride: “I’ve been kicked and I’ve been cuffed / But I’m still standing tall enough.” In true outlaw fashion, Waylon flips the script on aging, turning what could be seen as a flaw into a badge of honor.
Musically, the track is classic ’80s Waylon — tight, confident, and driven by a rhythmic groove that blends honky-tonk grit with a polished country-rock edge. His voice carries the gravel of years on the road, but it’s full of energy and charm. The band keeps it light and punchy, giving the lyrics room to land with swagger.
“I May Be Used” wasn’t just a novelty; it was a statement. At a time when country music was shifting toward pop polish, Waylon Jennings reminded everyone that authenticity and experience still mattered. It was also a reflection of his own journey — one filled with hard-won lessons, rebellion, and a refusal to fade quietly into the background.
For longtime fans, this song is a favorite for a reason: it captures the spirit of Waylon’s outlaw country persona in under three minutes. Unapologetic, rugged, and full of soul, “I May Be Used (But Baby I Ain’t Used Up)” is more than just a clever turn of phrase — it’s a personal creed from one of country music’s most enduring legends.