"Honky Tonk Heroes" is a song written by Billy Joe Shaver and recorded by Waylon Jennings in 1973. The song tells the story of a troubled and restless protagonist who reflects on his life as a honky tonk hero, a term used to describe a hard-living, rebellious musician or performer in the country music scene. In the lyrics, the protagonist acknowledges his past mistakes and the consequences of his actions. He mentions the "low down leaving sun," suggesting that he has experienced a life of late nights and questionable choices. The line "I've done did everything that needs done" implies that he has been involved in reckless behavior and lived life to the fullest. The protagonist laments his current situation and wonders why he can't see that it would be best for him to leave well enough alone. He reminisces about the neon light nights, which were often marred by fights and haunting memories. Despite this, he admits that there always seemed to be one person, himself, who ended up in trouble. The song also reflects on the passing of time and the fleeting nature of life. The protagonist wonders where all the good times have gone while acknowledging that it seems like just the other day when he was hustling at Green Gables, likely referring to a place where he worked or performed. He mentions dancing and playing the piano, suggesting a lively and wild lifestyle. The lyrics emphasize the sense of inevitability in the protagonist's life. He sings about how there was no other way for "loveable losers, no account boozers, and honky tonk heroes like me" to be. This line suggests that the protagonist feels trapped in his lifestyle, unable to escape or change. Despite this, he seems to have accepted his fate and wears his honky tonk hero identity with a mix of pride and resignation. Overall, "Honky Tonk Heroes" is a poignant and introspective song that explores the ups and downs, regrets, and acceptance of a character living a rebellious, hard-lived life in the honky tonk scene. It conveys a sense of nostalgia, questioning, and acceptance of one's own flaws and circumstances.
