About The Song
“This Time” by Waylon Jennings is a poignant, soulful ballad that represents a reflective moment in Jennings’ career, both as a songwriter and a performer. Released in 1974 as the title track from his album This Time, the song stands out as one of his most emotionally vulnerable pieces, showing a different side of the man known for his tough outlaw image.
At its core, “This Time” is a song about love, loss, and the lessons learned from past mistakes. The narrator is grappling with the pain of a broken relationship, but there’s a sense of hope in the lyrics. Unlike some of Jennings’ more defiant and rebellious songs, this track is introspective, with a soft, almost wistful tone. He’s reflecting on what went wrong, acknowledging his faults, and expressing a genuine desire to make things right. The line “This time, I’m gonna try to love you right” encapsulates the essence of the song—a man who’s determined to give love another chance, but only after learning from his past failures.
The music is understated, with a slow, steady rhythm that complements the emotional weight of the lyrics. The gentle strumming of the guitar and the melancholy tone of the pedal steel create an intimate atmosphere, allowing Jennings’ voice to shine through in its full, raw emotion. There’s a weariness in his voice, yet also a tenderness that makes the song feel deeply personal. It’s a different kind of country ballad, one that isn’t about bravado or rebellion, but about the quiet, sometimes painful journey of self-awareness and redemption.
Lyrically, “This Time” showcases Jennings’ skill for capturing the complexity of relationships. The song explores the vulnerability that comes with love, acknowledging that the path to healing isn’t always straightforward. The emotional sincerity in Jennings’ performance adds another layer of depth, making the song resonate with anyone who has ever felt the weight of their own mistakes or the longing for a second chance.
“This Time” is a masterclass in country storytelling, a song that strips away the bravado and exposes a more vulnerable, self-reflective side of Waylon Jennings. It’s a rare moment of introspection in an album that also features his more rebellious, outlaw tracks, proving that Jennings was not only a voice of defiance but also one of quiet reflection and emotional depth.