About the Song
When Waylon Jennings released “This Time” in 1974, it marked a pivotal moment in both his career and his personal journey. By the early ’70s, Waylon had grown weary of the constraints placed upon him by the Nashville music establishment. He wanted more artistic freedom, a chance to create music that reflected his own rough‑edged honesty rather than the polished, predictable productions that dominated the charts at the time. “This Time” became both a declaration of independence and a heartfelt promise — a song that fused country grit with a spirit of renewal, perfectly aligned with the ethos that would soon define the Outlaw Country movement.
From its opening notes, “This Time” is unmistakably Waylon: warm baritone vocals, a steady, unfussy rhythm, and a sense of resolve that comes from lived experience. Lyrically, the song tells the story of a man who has faced mistakes, heartbreak, and regret but is determined to make things right “this time.” It’s a message of perseverance and self-redemption, delivered in a way that resonates far beyond the surface of a love song. The simplicity of the words carries a raw sincerity — Waylon wasn’t just performing; he was sharing a piece of his own struggle to rebuild, refocus, and stay true to himself.
Musically, the track reflects Waylon’s signature style that would become central to the outlaw sound: minimalistic production, a subtle blend of honky-tonk and country-rock elements, and a rhythm that feels as grounded and unpretentious as the man himself. There are no flashy distractions here — just a strong voice, heartfelt lyrics, and a band that supports the song rather than overshadows it.
“This Time” also holds historical significance. It was Waylon Jennings’ first No. 1 single on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, signaling that his insistence on creative control was paying off. The song’s success gave Waylon both the confidence and the leverage to continue forging his own path, one that would inspire a generation of artists to resist the formulaic mold of mainstream country.
Nearly five decades later, “This Time” remains a timeless anthem of resilience. For longtime fans, it’s a reminder of the moment Waylon Jennings truly stepped into his own, embracing his role as a pioneer of authenticity in country music. And for anyone facing the weight of past mistakes or the challenge of starting over, the song still delivers its quiet, powerful promise: there is always another chance to get it right, this time.