"Nashville Bum" is a song by Waylon Jennings that highlights the struggles and dreams of aspiring musicians in Nashville. The lyrics depict the narrator, who is chasing his big break in the music industry, living a humble and difficult life. He talks about surviving on minimal food and eagerly waiting for his opportunity to become a star. The song showcases the perseverance and determination of aspiring musicians, willing to make sacrifices to pursue their dreams. The reference to ketchup soup, homemade crackers, and Kool-Aid emphasizes the narrator's financial hardships. Jennings also mentions his love for country and cowboy clothes and his distinctive singing style, as recommended by songwriter Jimmy Webb. The mention of smoking "PA," a type of tobacco popular among Opry stars, further adds authenticity to the song's Nashville setting. The song takes a humorous turn when the narrator talks about a connection that eventually gets him on the Opry show. However, in a comical twist, he trips and breaks his guitar during his moment on stage. This irony adds a touch of irony to the challenges faced by musicians on their journey to success. The last verse talks about the narrator's songwriting skills, implying that he is willing to collaborate with others and share the success of his work. Overall, "Nashville Bum" captures the struggles, aspirations, and determination of musicians trying to make it big in Nashville.
