Hardline
Waylon Jennings · Other Songs - Waylon Jennings
Midnight, street light,
Shadows, touch your face
Whisper, goodnight,
Though I want you so, to stay.
Chorus:
I'm standing on the hardline,
Taking my sweet time
Praying that you'll see why,
I' m slow to change.
Been fighting on the front line,
Victim of a heart crime
Just can't let you steal mine away
Listen, reasons never will explain.
Freedom, is just to save time,
'Til I'm strong enough,
To bend and not break.
Chorus:
I'm standing on the hardline,
Taking my sweet time
Hoping that you'll see why,
I'm slow to change.
Been fighting on the front line,
Victim of a hard crime
Just can't let you steal mine away...
Well, I need your trust,
Don't give up, don't shut me down,
I'll open up,
If you just try love my way.
--- Instrumental ---
Chorus:
I'm standing on the hardline,
Taking my sweet time
Hoping that you'll see why,
I'm slow to change.
Been fighting on the front line,
Victim of a hard crime
Can't just let you steal mine away...
Hardline - Waylon Jennings
Waylon Jennings' "Hardline" stands as a quintessential example of his outlaw country persona, blending the raw energy of the genre with his signature vocal delivery. Released during a period when Jennings was actively shaping the sound of modern country music, the track exemplifies the genre's shift toward a more direct, less polished aesthetic that defined the early 1970s. As a solo recording, it showcases Jennings' ability to convey gritty emotion without relying on heavy production, a hallmark of his work alongside peers like Willie Nelson. The song reflects the broader cultural movement of the era, capturing the spirit of independence and resilience that became central to the outlaw country narrative. Its enduring appeal lies in its authentic tone and Jennings' mastery of the genre's lyrical themes.