When George Strait launched into “Waymore’s Blues” at Jack Trice Stadium, it wasn’t just another cover; it was a masterclass in honoring country music’s outlaw legacy. The King of Country put his own polished stamp on Waylon Jennings’ rowdy classic, proving that after 40+ years, he can still make traditional country sound fresh, vital and utterly irresistible.
Part of his Cowboys and Dreamers album, Strait’s take on this Jennings staple became an instant crowd-pleaser in Ames. Backed by the Ace in the Hole Band’s swinging rhythm section, he delivered the lyrics with a wink; smoother than Waylon’s version but with the same rebellious spirit. That fiddle break? Pure honky-tonk heaven.
George Strait – Waymore’s Blues (2024 Ames, IA)
Fans called it “a history lesson with a beat.” Comments lit up with praise for Strait’s respectful yet original interpretation, with longtime listeners noting how he “bridges the gap between Nashville polish and outlaw edge.” One viewer wrote: “Only George could make 60,000 Iowans shout ‘I don’t have to work!’ like it’s last call at a Texas roadhouse.”
As the live cheers faded, the studio version revealed new layers; Strait’s voice richer, the production tighter, but that same irresistible swing intact. From stadium spontaneity to studio craft, both versions prove why this cover belongs in the King’s repertoire.
George Strait – Waymore’s Blues (Official Audio)
Recorded for Cowboys and Dreamers, Strait’s studio version of Jennings’ 1975 classic honors the original’s loose vibe while adding his signature precision. The track showcases his band’s telepathic chemistry; especially that rollicking piano and fiddle trade-off. It’s not just a cover; it’s a conversation between two eras of country royalty.
Strait’s fans have turned #WaymoresBlues into a tribute to both legends, sharing side-by-side comparisons. His socials highlight these throwback moments with no flash; just the music that built country’s foundation. Because in an era of trends, George Strait remains the keeper of the flame.