About The Song

Released in 1975 as the lead single from his album “Dreaming My Dreams,” “Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way” was a pivotal moment in country music history. The song, written and recorded by Jennings, served as a rallying cry for a new generation of country artists who were rebelling against the slick, pop-influenced sound that had dominated the genre in the late 1960s and early 1970s.

Jennings, a longtime admirer of Hank Williams Sr., used the song to question the authenticity of contemporary country music. The lyrics express frustration with artists who, in Jennings’ opinion, were straying too far from the rootsy, honky-tonk sound that had defined the genre in its early days. The song’s title itself is a direct challenge to the prevailing trends, suggesting that the current crop of country stars might not be following in the footsteps of their legendary predecessors.

“Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way” became a massive hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Country Singles chart. It solidified Jennings’ status as a leading figure in the outlaw country movement, a loose-knit collective of artists who were pushing the boundaries of country music and challenging the status quo. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless message and its ability to capture the spirit of a generation of country music fans.

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Lyrics

🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics!

Lord it’s the same old tune, fiddle and guitar
Where do we take it from here?
Rhinestone suits and new shiny cars
It’s been the same way for years
We need to change

Somebody told me when I came to Nashville
Son you finally got it made
Old Hank made it here, we’re all sure that you will
But I don’t think Hank done it this way, no
I don’t think Hank done it this way, okay

Ten years on the road, making one night stand
Speeding my young life away
Tell me one more time just so I’ll understand
Are you sure Hank done it this way?
Did old Hank really do it this way?

Lord I’ve seen the world with a five piece band
Looking at the back side of me
Singing my songs, one of his now and then
But I don’t think Hank done ’em this way, no
I don’t think Hank done ’em this way, take it home

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