I'm a Ramblin' Man — Waylon Jennings Lyrics

About “I’m a Ramblin’ Man”

“I’m a Ramblin’ Man” by Waylon Jennings is a classic country song from his 1974 album The Ramblin’ Man. Written by Ray Pennington, the song captures the restless spirit and lifestyle of a traveling musician.

• Album: The Ramblin’ Man (1974)


• Release Date: January 1, 1967


• Writer: Ray Pennington


• Label: RCA Records

Annotations and Meaning.

[Verse 1]

The first stanza details the narrator's vast travels, highlighting destinations such as Mississippi, New Orleans, and California. This sets the setting for the life of a wandering guy who has seen and experienced a lot yet is still on the go.

[Chorus]

The chorus serves as a caution to avoid going too close to a ramblin' man. The repeat of "Don't fool around with a ramblin' man" highlights the fleeting nature of his lifestyle and the emotional risks it entails.

[Verse 2]

In the second verse, the narrator discusses leaving one girl in West Virginia and having another waiting in Cincinnati. These examples highlight his difficulty to establish and sustain stable relationships.

[Chorus]

The chorus repeats, emphasizing the same advice about being emotionally engaged with someone who is constantly on the go.

[Bridge]

The bridge underlines the narrator's easygoing and adventurous nature. He agrees that becoming close to him has the potential to influence a person's heart and thinking, but cautions against becoming involved.

[Verse 3]

In the final line, the narrator describes his notoriety in other cities, including Chicago and Alabama. He is recognized for his charisma and adventurous temperament, yet he is a wandering man who cannot develop long-term ties.

[Chorus]

The chorus repeats itself, underscoring the song's fundamental message: the narrator is a ramblin' man, so don't approach too close.

"I'm a Ramblin' Man" by Waylon Jennings is a classic country song about the life of a wandering artist. The words, paired with Jennings' unusual voice, create a vivid image of a man who is constantly on the move, seeking new horizons but never settling down.