About the Song
Few artists in country music history have sung with the grit, honesty, and authority of Waylon Jennings, and his 1982 track “Women Do Know How to Carry On” is a shining example of that unmatched storytelling ability. Featured on his album Black on Black, this song demonstrates Waylon’s signature blend of outlaw country swagger and deep respect for life’s hard-earned wisdom — particularly the quiet resilience of women.
The track opens with a slow, steady groove, anchored by Waylon’s unmistakable baritone voice and a moody, steel-driven arrangement. There’s no rush in the delivery, no unnecessary polish; instead, the song unfolds like a heartfelt observation, honoring the strength women possess in navigating life’s challenges. The title itself says it all — a simple truth stated plainly, yet with profound admiration.
Lyrically, “Women Do Know How to Carry On” captures a theme that runs through much of Jennings’ work: empathy, authenticity, and a refusal to sugarcoat life’s struggles. This isn’t a love song in the traditional sense; rather, it’s a tribute to endurance and grace. Waylon’s vocal interpretation feels lived-in, like a man who’s seen both sides of heartbreak and survival, and knows the power of a woman’s strength firsthand.
On Black on Black, this track sits comfortably alongside Jennings’ harder-edged outlaw anthems, showing his versatility. At a time when country music often leaned on clichés, Waylon offered something real — a song that feels like a conversation shared over a quiet evening rather than a polished radio single.
Four decades later, “Women Do Know How to Carry On” remains a reminder of why Waylon Jennings is celebrated not just as a rebel, but as a poet of real life. With minimal production and maximum heart, it’s a testament to the kind of country storytelling that never goes out of style.