About the song
Released in 1978, *I’ve Always Been Crazy* is a notable studio album by Waylon Jennings that captures a significant moment in his career. This album arrived at a time when Jennings was experiencing both the high and low points of his life and career.
By 1978, Jennings was feeling disillusioned with the outlaw country movement that he had once championed. Despite tremendous success—including multiple #1 albums, a #1 live album, and numerous Top 10 singles—he grew frustrated with how Nashville had embraced what started as a rebellious movement against the traditional Music Row. Jennings also struggled with the pressures and expectations placed upon him.
More troubling was Jennings’ battle with cocaine addiction. In his autobiography, Jennings described his intense struggle with the drug, acknowledging that it had taken a severe toll on his health and well-being. His addiction led to a chaotic lifestyle, marked by long periods of sleeplessness and erratic behavior. This turmoil was compounded by a high-profile drug bust in August 1977, which added to his stress and fueled public scrutiny. Despite the legal troubles, the case against him fell apart due to flaws in the legal process, and Jennings was not convicted. However, the incident left a lasting impact on him, both personally and financially.
Despite these challenges, *I’ve Always Been Crazy* reflects Jennings’ resilience and determination. The album’s title track, which shares the same name as the album, resonates with the themes of defiance and personal struggle that characterized Jennings’ life at the time. The album managed to perform well commercially, with its raw honesty and the public’s fascination with Jennings’ rebellious image contributing to its success.
Overall, *I’ve Always Been Crazy* stands as a powerful testament to Waylon Jennings’ ability to confront his personal demons while continuing to produce music that resonates with his audience. The album’s blend of personal vulnerability and defiant spirit makes it a significant piece of his musical legacy.
Video
Lyrics
I’ve always been crazy and the trouble that it’s put me through
Been busted for things that I did and I didn’t do
I can’t say I’m proud of all of the things that I’ve done
But I can say I’ve never intentionally hurt anyone
I’ve always been different with one foot over the line
Winding up somewhere one step ahead or behind
It ain’t been so easy but I guess I shouldn’t complain
I’ve always been crazy but it’s kept me from going insane
Beautiful lady, are you sure that you understand
The chances your taking loving a free living man
Are you really sure, you really want what you see
Be careful of something that’s just what you want it to be
I’ve always been crazy but it’s kept me from going insane
Nobody knows if it’s something to bless or to blame
So far I ain’t found a rhyme or a reason to change
I’ve always been crazy but it’s kept me from going insane