I Lost Me

Waylon Jennings · Six Strings Away [Bear Family] [1999]

(Helen Carter)



You tear me down a hundred times a day

I've cried enough to wash the world away

I've tried so hard to be what you've wanted me to be

Till somewhere along the way I lost me.



To give and keep on giving I have learned

There's no way but yours where you're concerned

I tried till finally I lost my own identity

And somewhere along the way I lost me.



Somewhere along the way I lost the man I used to be

A man who smiled, enjoyed life, loved you with all of me

You'd never once considered how I felt

So go ahead and live my life yourself.



I've tried so hard to be what you wanted me to be

Somewhere along the way I lost me.



Somewhere along the way I lost me...

About I Lost Me

"I Lost Me" is a poignant country ballad recorded by Waylon Jennings, appearing on his 1999 Bear Family compilation *Six Strings Away*. The track exemplifies Jennings' signature style, blending the outlaw country sound of the 1970s with a mature, reflective vocal delivery that emphasizes emotional vulnerability. As part of a collection of his later recordings, the song showcases his ability to craft narratives about personal struggle and isolation without relying on specific lyrical exposition. Released decades after his initial fame, this recording highlights Jennings' enduring influence on the genre and his capacity to deliver timeless material through a seasoned artistic lens. The song stands as a testament to his career's evolution, capturing the essence of a musician who prioritized authenticity and musical integrity over commercial trends. It remains a significant song in his discography, offering listeners a glimpse into the quieter, more introspective side of his artistry.