About The Song
“Bob Wills Is Still the King” is Waylon Jennings’ heartfelt tribute to one of country music’s most influential figures, Bob Wills, the pioneer of Western swing. Released in 1975 as the B-side to “Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way”, the song became an anthem celebrating Texas music, its heritage, and the enduring legacy of Bob Wills & His Texas Playboys.
What makes this song stand out is its blend of respect and swagger. Jennings, a leading figure in the outlaw country movement, was never one to shy away from challenging Nashville’s norms, but here, he takes a moment to honor Wills, a man whose influence stretched far beyond Western swing. While some country artists of the time leaned more toward polished, pop-influenced sounds, Jennings proudly reinforces the idea that Texas—particularly the music born there—was still as strong as ever.
Musically, the song carries the signature outlaw country sound—simple yet powerful, driven by steady rhythm guitar, light steel guitar accents, and a laid-back groove that reflects the easygoing yet proud spirit of Texas music. Jennings’ deep, unmistakable voice delivers the lyrics in a casual, almost conversational style, as if he’s sharing a drink with friends at a honky-tonk, reminiscing about the good old days of Texas swing.
Lyrically, “Bob Wills Is Still the King” is both a tribute and a playful declaration of Texas pride. Jennings acknowledges the contributions of country greats from Nashville but makes it clear that in Texas, Bob Wills still reigns supreme. The lines, “You can hear the Grand Ol’ Opry in Nashville, Tennessee / It’s the home of country music, on that we all agree / But when you cross that ol’ Red River hoss, that just don’t mean a thing / Once you’re down in Texas, Bob Wills is still the king,” capture the spirit of the song—Texas music is its own thing, and it doesn’t need Nashville’s approval.
The song became a rallying cry for Texan musicians and fans who believed in preserving their unique musical heritage. It reinforced the idea that country music wasn’t just one thing dictated by Nashville—it was a diverse genre with deep regional roots, and Texas had its own rightful place in its history.
In the years since its release, “Bob Wills Is Still the King” has remained a favorite among fans of outlaw country and Western swing alike. It’s more than just a song—it’s a testament to the lasting impact of Bob Wills, a reminder of the importance of musical roots, and a celebration of Texas pride, delivered with the effortless cool that only Waylon Jennings could pull off.