Waylon Jennings was the original outlaw of country music, having a career that has spanned over four decades and continues to influence aspiring and successful artists within the current musical spectrum. Acknowledging his contribution to more than just country music would be an understatement, especially taking into consideration that the Jennings family legacy is carrying the torch boldly for generations to come. Somewhat of a modern day outlaw himself, Waylons grandson Struggle Jennings takes on a tender approach with his latest single, “Bad Company”. Not only does the songs honest interpretation give the listener a taste of Struggle’s diverse talent, we are also introduced to his daughter, Brianna Harness.
Brianna and Struggle have an interesting vocal dynamic. Her pure tone, versus the life experience heard in Struggle’s delivery, works as they sing the simple chorus in the beginning of the song.
“I don’t think you know how to be in love with me, your words don’t comfort me, oooh you should run from me, I’m bad company”
Struggles grit and depth shines as he lyrically conveys a bit of a softer side. Although this is a father/daughter collaboration, the words can be taken into a unique context. Both knowing the difficulties they have experienced from the mistakes made by a fathers controversial past possibly?
The message of “Bad Company” is clear as the female vocal consoles, while the male is trying to warn her. Upon listening to the song for the first time, I don’t think it is meant to be overthought. Struggles natural flow in his verse is brilliant, allowing Brianna to carry the melody with an impressive, yet unique and underlying innocent sound.
With the vast musical history the Jennings family has built, Struggle and Brianna bring us a pleasing representation. One that foreseeably can be taken to another level and would make Waylon very proud.
Video link: https://youtu.be/Tm9zIzfG9Gs
Spotify link: https://open.spotify.com/track/5nnPRCuilZfnMxxywErwLI?si=D7cXWFSiQMm2eUyRTizCgA
