I've Been a Long Time Leaving

Waylon Jennings · Dreaming My Dreams [RCA Victor] [1975]

(Roger Miller)

I've been a fool, I've been a fool

Forgivin' you each time that you've done me wrong

I've been a long time leavin'

But I'll be a long time gone.

Loved you so much I loved you so much

I stayed around when I should've moved along

I've been a long time leaving

But I'll be a long time gone.

Hello highline, hello highway

Here come a big ole semi my way

I stick up my thumb, hear the truck come

Trees goin' by, lookin' like a fly.

On my big legs are my Levi's

Hup, hup, hup, hup.

I've been a fool, I've been a fool

Forgivin' you each time that you've done me wrong

I've been a long time leavin'

But I'll be a long time gone.

--- Instrumental ---

Hello highline, hello highway

Here come a big ole semi my way

I stick up my thumb, hear the truck come

Trees goin' by, lookin' like a fly.

On my big legs are my Levi's

Hup, hup, hup, hup.

I've been a fool, I've been a fool

Forgivin' you each time that you've done me wrong

I've been a long time leavin'

But I'll be a long time gone...

I've Been a Long Time Leaving

Waylon Jennings' 'I've Been a Long Time Leaving' stands as a defining track from his 1975 album, Dreaming My Dreams. Recorded during a pivotal era when Jennings helped shape the outlaw country sound, the song captures his signature baritone and the genre's characteristic blend of melancholy and resilience. The recording reflects the artist's broader discography, which consistently explored themes of independence and the complexities of relationships. As part of the mid-1970s output that solidified his reputation, this work demonstrates the production values and emotional depth that characterized his time with RCA Victor. The track remains a testament to Jennings' ability to convey raw feeling through straightforward musical arrangements, securing its place within the canon of classic country music.