About the song
Released in April 1977, “Luckenbach, Texas (Back to the Basics of Love)” is a celebrated track by the American country music icon Waylon Jennings. This song was the lead single from Jennings’ album *Ol’ Waylon* and has become one of his most beloved hits.
The song, penned by Chips Moman and Bobby Emmons, tells the story of a couple who feel overwhelmed by their high-society lifestyle. The lyrics reflect the strains of their luxurious but stressful life, mentioning issues like marital discord and financial strain despite their success. The song suggests that returning to simpler times and moving to the quaint town of Luckenbach, Texas, could help them rediscover the true essence of love and happiness.
Jennings’ performance of “Luckenbach, Texas” is both heartfelt and resonant, capturing the essence of longing for a simpler life. The song also features a memorable guest vocal by Willie Nelson in the final refrain, adding an extra layer of authenticity and charm.
Interestingly, neither Chips Moman, Bobby Emmons, nor Waylon Jennings had been to Luckenbach at the time of recording. Despite this, Jennings recognized the song’s potential hit status, even though he admitted in his autobiography that he did not personally favor the song.
“Luckenbach, Texas” achieved remarkable success, debuting on the country charts on April 16, 1977. It reached the number one position on May 21, 1977, and remained at the top until June 25, 1977. The song’s blend of reflective lyrics and classic country sound helped solidify Waylon Jennings’ place as a key figure in country music history.
Video
lyrics
The only two things in life that make it worth livin’
Is guitars that tune good and firm feelin’ women
I don’t need my name in the marquee lights
I got my song and I got you with me tonight
Maybe it’s time we got back to the basics of love
Let’s go to Luckenbach, Texas
With Waylon and Willie and the boys
This successful life we’re livin’
Got us feuding like the Hatfields and McCoys
Between Hank Williams’ pain songs and
Newbury’s train songs and “Blue Eyes Cryin’ in the Rain”
Out in Luckenbach, Texas, ain’t nobody feelin’ no pain
So baby, let’s sell your diamond ring
Buy some boots and faded jeans and go away
This coat and tie is choking me
In your high society, you cry all day
We’ve been so busy keepin’ up with the Jones
Four car garage and we’re still building on
Maybe it’s time we got back to the basics of love
Let’s go to Luckenbach, Texas
With Waylon and Willie and the boys
This successful life we’re livin’ got us feudin’
Like the Hatfield and McCoys
Between Hank Williams’ pain songs and
Newbury’s train songs and “Blue Eyes Cryin’ in the Rain”
Out in Luckenbach, Texas, ain’t nobody feelin’ no pain
Let’s go to Luckenbach, Texas
Willie and Waylon and the boys
This successful life we’re livin’s got us feudin’
Like the Hatfield and McCoys
Between Hank Williams’ pain songs
And Jerry Jeff’s train songs and “Blue Eyes Cryin’ in the Rain”
Out in Luckenbach, Texas, there ain’t nobody feelin’ no pain