About The Song
Waylon Jennings delivers a captivating and defiant anthem with “Ladies Love Outlaws,” a song that perfectly encapsulates the outlaw country movement’s bold spirit. Released in 1972 as part of his album “Ladies Love Outlaws,” this track stands as one of Jennings’ most defining moments, highlighting the connection between love, rebellion, and independence. With its clever lyrics and Jennings’ distinctive voice, the song resonates with anyone who has ever embraced a love that’s unconventional, rebellious, or misunderstood.
Lyrically, “Ladies Love Outlaws” explores the idea that women are drawn to men who live outside of society’s norms. The narrator acknowledges that while society may frown upon the outlaws—those who refuse to play by the rules—there’s something magnetic about their boldness, freedom, and defiance. The song reflects the allure of living on the edge, with the narrator confidently proclaiming that ladies are often more attracted to outlaws than to the “straight-laced” men who conform to expectations. The playful lyrics capture the tension between the outlaw’s rebellious nature and the magnetic draw of love, making it a timeless anthem for those who celebrate life outside the mainstream.
Musically, “Ladies Love Outlaws” features a country arrangement with a mix of acoustic guitar, steel guitar, and a steady rhythm section that perfectly complements the song’s cheeky, upbeat tone. The arrangement is simple yet effective, giving Waylon Jennings’ voice plenty of space to shine. His deep, confident vocal delivery brings the lyrics to life, adding just the right amount of swagger to make the song unforgettable. The melody is catchy and has a swaggering energy that reflects the song’s playful yet rebellious spirit.
What makes “Ladies Love Outlaws” so compelling is its universal theme of attraction to the unconventional. The song resonates with anyone who has ever been drawn to a love that challenges norms or lives outside the expectations of society. The track celebrates the idea that sometimes the most compelling relationships are those that don’t conform to society’s standards, and it highlights the magnetic power of outlaw love. It’s a celebration of independence, rebellion, and the emotional pull of being different.
With its clever lyrics, Waylon Jennings’ signature vocal performance, and its country sound, “Ladies Love Outlaws” remains one of the most iconic songs in Jennings’ catalog. It’s a song that continues to resonate with fans who embrace the freedom of living life on their own terms and the attraction to those who dare to be different.