The song "Pick Up The Tempo" by Waylon Jennings was released in 1974 as part of his album "The Ramblin' Man." The lyrics of the song reflect Jennings' rebellious and free-spirited nature. The meaning of the song revolves around the idea that time will take care of itself, so it's best to live life to the fullest and not worry about the future. Some people criticize and doubt the protagonist's lifestyle, claiming that he is living too fast and won't last much longer. However, the protagonist sees their thoughts and judgments as his savior because he embraces his wild, creative, and unconventional nature. He believes that he might live forever, symbolizing his desire to leave a lasting impact through his music. The chorus encourages the listeners to pick up the tempo, indicating that life should be lived with energy and enthusiasm. The singer acknowledges that the singer and the drummer have been lacking motivation, potentially alluding to the challenges faced in the music industry. However, despite these setbacks, the protagonist asks others to leave time alone because it will take care of itself. It's a call to focus on the present, pick up the pace, and keep pushing forward. Throughout the song, Jennings expresses his multifaceted personality, mentioning that he can be wild, mean, happy, sad, lazy, quiet, loud, and capable of gathering a crowd. He mentions his experiences in the Navy, emphasizing his diverse background and the influences that shape who he is. Overall, "Pick Up The Tempo" is a rebellious anthem that encourages individuals to embrace their true selves and live life passionately, disregarding the judgments and expectations of others. The song is a reflection of Jennings' own free-spirited nature and his desire to leave a lasting impact through his music.
