"Outlaw You" by Shooter Jennings is a country song that serves as a critique of the commercialization and inauthenticity in the modern country music industry. The song specifically targets the mainstream country artists who portray themselves as outlaws and rebels, but lack the substance and true country soul that defined the genre's roots. The lyrics describe the protagonist, coming home from a long day and hoping to find some authentic country music on the radio. However, all they find is a generic and manufactured version of country, with artists trying to appear tough and rebellious by name-dropping legends like Johnny Cash and Hank Williams. The song addresses this issue directly, with the chorus targeting the pretty boys who claim to be outlaws but only possess a superficial understanding of country music. The protagonist ridicules them, highlighting that country music is not just about the image or where one comes from, but about being true to oneself and expressing what's inside. The song then references the history of country music, particularly in Nashville in 1962 when Waylon Jennings began his career. It discusses how record labels and industry executives initially resisted Waylon's original sound, but he persevered and broke through with his unique style. Alongside others like him, they became known as the outlaws of country music, challenging the establishment and staying true to their sound. However, the song also criticizes how the record labels eventually regained control and rebranded the outlaw concept, turning it into a marketable trend. This resulted in the modern country industry becoming more focused on image and commercial success rather than genuine country authenticity. Ultimately, "Outlaw You" calls out these mainstream country artists and suggests that they should be outlawed for their lack of true understanding and appreciation of the genre. It serves as a plea to bring back the genuine spirit of country music and the values it represents. The song expresses Shooter Jennings's frustration with the current state of country music and his desire to uphold the roots and integrity of the genre. It is a declaration that true country music cannot be bought or manufactured, and that artists need to stay true to themselves and their art.
