About the song
“Luckenbach, Texas (Back to the Basics of Love)” stands as a quintessential country music anthem recorded by the American country artist Waylon Jennings. Released in April 1977 as the lead single from the album Ol’ Waylon, the song was penned by Chips Moman and Bobby Emmons.
The song’s narrative revolves around a couple ensnared by the trappings of “high society,” which strains their marriage (“Our lives are like some old western movie / But we’re doing alright for the shape we’re in”). Financially well-off (“four cars in the garage, still building on”), Jennings suggests they return to the simpler pleasures and values of love, proposing a move to the small town of Luckenbach, Texas.
Jennings draws on cultural references throughout the song, invoking the legendary feuding families of the Hatfields and McCoys, paying homage to country music icons like Hank Williams, and tipping his hat to classic songs like “Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain.”
The song’s final chorus features the distinctive vocals of Willie Nelson, adding a layer of authenticity and camaraderie to the track.
“Luckenbach, Texas (Back to the Basics of Love)” was co-written by Chips Moman and Bobby Emmons, who pitched it to Jennings because “his name was in it.” Interestingly, neither the songwriters nor Jennings had visited Luckenbach at the time of recording. In his autobiography, Jennings admitted to its commercial success despite his personal ambivalence toward it, stating, “I knew it was a hit song, even though I didn’t like it, and still don’t.”
Upon its release on April 16, 1977, the song quickly climbed to the number one spot on the country music charts by May 21, 1977, maintaining its position for five consecutive weeks, solidifying its status as a classic within the genre.
“Luckenbach, Texas (Back to the Basics of Love)” remains not only a significant milestone in Waylon Jennings’ career but also a timeless reflection on the enduring allure of simpler times and values amidst the complexities of modern life, resonating deeply with audiences across generations. Its blend of heartfelt storytelling, evocative lyrics, and the distinctive blend of Jennings’ and Nelson’s voices continues to captivate listeners, ensuring its place in the pantheon of beloved country music classics.
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Lyrics
Let’s go to Luckenbach, Texas
With Waylon and Willie and the boys
This successful life we’re living
Got us feuding like the Hatfields and McCoys
Between the Hank Williams’ pain songs
An’ Newberry’s train songs
An’ Blue Eyes Cryin’ In The Rain
Out in Luckenbach, Texas
There ain’t nobody feeling no pain
So baby, let’s sell your diamond ring
And buy some boots and faded jeans and go away
This coat and tie is choking me
In your high society, you cry all night
We’ve been so busy keeping up with the Jones
A 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 living
Got us feuding like the Hatfields and McCoys
Between the Hank Williams’ pain songs
An’ Newberry’s train songs
An’ Blue Eyes Cryin’ In The Rain
Out in Luckenbach, Texas
There ain’t nobody feeling no pain
Out in Luckenbach, Texas
There ain’t nobody feeling no pain