Description
Shooter Jennings – Put The O Back In Country – Vinyl Record
Shooter Jennings’ Put the O Back in Country (2005) is the debut studio album by the son of outlaw country legend Waylon Jennings. This album marked Shooter Jennings’ emergence as an artist in his own right, combining elements of classic outlaw country, Southern rock, and modern alternative country to create a sound that blends tradition with a rebellious spirit.
Put the O Back in Country came out in 2005, at a time when mainstream country music was dominated by polished, pop-influenced sounds. Shooter Jennings sought to return to the gritty, rebellious roots of outlaw country, the movement his father helped pioneer alongside artists like Willie Nelson and Johnny Cash. Growing up in the shadow of Waylon Jennings, Shooter was deeply influenced by classic country, but he was also heavily drawn to rock ‘n’ roll and the Southern rock sounds of bands like Lynyrd Skynyrd and The Allman Brothers Band.
The album combines traditional country instrumentation (pedal steel, acoustic guitar, twangy electric guitar) with the attitude and energy of Southern rock. Shooter’s vocals have a raw, gritty edge, which adds to the album’s rebellious vibe. Lyrically, Put the O Back in Country taps into themes of independence, defiance, and a desire to reclaim country music’s rebellious heritage. The title itself is a play on words, suggesting a return to the outlaw spirit that Shooter felt had been lost in contemporary country music. The album blends outlaw country themes like personal freedom, hard living, and nonconformity with Southern rock’s rebellious swagger.
3. Key Tracks
“Fourth of July”: One of the standout tracks, “Fourth of July” became a moderate hit and showcases Jennings’ ability to mix country with rock sensibilities. It’s a nostalgic, feel-good anthem that reflects on love and the carefree spirit of summer nights. The song’s catchy hook and rock-infused energy made it a favorite among fans.
“Steady at the Wheel”: This song has a classic outlaw country feel, with Jennings’ raspy vocals delivering a tale of resilience and staying true to oneself in the face of life’s challenges. It’s a perfect example of his blend of country attitude and rock edge.
“Manifesto No. 1”: This track is one of the most direct in addressing Jennings’ mission to bring outlaw country back into the mainstream. The song’s lyrics speak to rejecting modern country’s slick, commercial direction, with a determination to make music that’s raw and authentic.
“Busted in Baylor County”: A Southern rock-influenced song that tells the tale of a run-in with the law, it’s full of rebellious spirit and has an infectious, driving rhythm. The track’s storytelling style and rock-tinged sound make it a standout on the album.
“Lonesome Blues”: A slower, more introspective track, it taps into the heartache and loneliness that are classic themes in country music. Jennings’ voice takes on a more somber tone here, highlighting his versatility as an artist.
Put the O Back in Country was well-received by fans of alternative country and outlaw country for its raw, unpolished sound and rebellious lyrics. Shooter Jennings was praised for his ability to balance tradition with modern influences, appealing to both classic country fans and younger listeners looking for something outside the mainstream. The album didn’t achieve massive commercial success but gained a dedicated fanbase and solidified Jennings as a figure in the alt-country movement. It resonated with listeners who were frustrated with the overly slick, pop-oriented direction of mainstream country and wanted a return to its more authentic roots.
The album was produced by Dave Cobb, a renowned producer who later went on to work with artists like Sturgill Simpson, Jason Isbell, and Chris Stapleton—all of whom became key figures in the Americana and alt-country scenes. The song “Southern Comfort” features guest vocals by George Jones, a country legend in his own right, which further underscores the album’s connection to the old-school outlaw ethos.
Put the O Back in Country is often credited with helping to usher in a new wave of artists who blended country with rock and Southern influences, paving the way for the Americana revival that took off in the 2010s. Jennings’ approach to country music, much like his father’s, emphasizes individuality, authenticity, and rejection of the commercial Nashville sound. This made him a key figure in the alt-country scene, alongside contemporaries like Ryan Adams, Drive-By Truckers, and Lucero. The album’s title has become something of a rallying cry for those seeking to preserve the integrity of traditional country music while embracing the rebellious spirit of the outlaw movement.
Put the O Back in Country is a bold, unapologetic album that sought to bring country music back to its rebellious roots while incorporating rock elements. Shooter Jennings successfully blends his father’s outlaw country legacy with his own Southern rock influences, creating a sound that defies mainstream Nashville trends. The album’s raw energy and anti-establishment attitude resonated with a growing audience of alternative country fans, securing Jennings’ place as a key figure in the modern outlaw country revival.
Brand new, never played and still in the factory plastic
Track Listing
Put The O Back In Country
4th Of July
Lonesome Blues
Solid Country Gold
Busted In Baylor County
Sweet Savannah
Steady At The Wheel
Manifesto No. 1
The Letter
Southern Comfort
Daddy’s Farm
