Outlaws have long had an allure to many and songs about them are no exception.
Music has been a way to explore and comment on the outlaw lifestyle.
This article will explore 15 of the best songs about outlaws, from the classic country of Waylon Jennings to the rock of Green Day.
Through these songs, we can gain insight into the outlaw lifestyle and the appeal it has had to many over the years.
These songs will provide an overview of the outlaw lifestyle and the various ways it has been depicted in music.
By looking at the themes, lyrics, and musical styles of these songs, we can gain a better understanding of the outlaw lifestyle and how it has been portrayed in music.
1. “Vigilante Man” by Woody Guthrie
Woody Guthrie‘s “Vigilante Man” offers insightful storytelling to convey the struggles of ordinary people in American society.
His work is uniquely crafted to create vivid imagery of the complexities and nuances of the human experience, often focusing on the plight of those who are marginalized or suffer from poverty.
He paints a vivid picture highlighting the struggles of those who are fighting for justice and freedom.
His songs provide a powerful and captivating look into the lives of outlaws in a way that speaks to the listener’s humanity.
2. “Outlaw Blues” by Pat Benatar
Pat Benatar‘s “Outlaw Blues” is an emotionally charged expression of rebellion and nonconformity.
The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a character who is unapologetically nonconformist, and who is willing to defy authority and societal norms.
The song conveys a sense of defiance and pride in choosing to live life on one’s own terms, rejecting expectations and obligations imposed by others.
The composition further amplifies the song’s message with its bluesy, upbeat melody that creates an atmosphere of excitement and freedom.
3. “Outlaw” by Morgan Wallen
Morgan Wallen‘s song “Outlaw” is an anthem celebrating freedom and independence, with a catchy beat and engaging lyrics.
The song’s captivating energy and infectious guitar riffs drive the narrative of a man’s desire to live life on his own terms.
Wallen’s distinctively southern twang and reflective lyrics about the power of making one’s own way echo the themes of many classic country songs.
He embodies the spirit of the outlaw, who lives in defiance of societal expectations and societal norms.
“Outlaw” is an ode to the independent spirit and an inspiring message to those who want to break free of convention.
4. “English Outlaw” by The Dogs D’Amour
The Dogs D’Amour’s “English Outlaw” offers a unique spin on the outlaw genre.
Merging classic country themes of independence and rebellion with a punk-infused sound, the song creates a powerful, modern interpretation of the outlaw spirit.
The lyrics are both clever and evocative, as they paint a vivid picture of a life of lawlessness and freedom.
The instrumentation is sharp and driving, with a driving guitar riff and an edgy vocal performance.
“English Outlaw” succeeds in creating an original sound that celebrates the spirit of the outlaw.
5. “Don’t You Think This Outlaw Bit’s Done Got out of Hand” by Waylon Jennings
Waylon Jennings’ song “Don’t You Think This Outlaw Bit’s Done Got out of Hand” aptly conveys the chaotic nature of the outlaw lifestyle.
The composition features an electric guitar-driven melody, accompanied by intense percussion and passionate vocal delivery.
Jennings’ lyrics emphasize the consequences of disobeying the law and rejecting societal norms.
The song speaks to the dangers of venturing too far outside the boundaries of conventionalism and the risk of getting caught in a cycle of outlaw behaviour.
6. “For The Outlawz” by Moonshine Bandits
Moonshine Bandits’ single “For The Outlaws” provides a gritty and hard-hitting look into the world of crime and lawlessness.
The song’s lyrical content details the struggles of life as an outlaw, while the production is dark and menacing.
The track’s low-key soundscape and haunting vocal delivery further amplify the dark themes it presents.
Their hit single “For The Outlaws” offers a unique perspective on the life of an outlaw, providing an insight into the dangers and hardships of living outside of the law.
7. “Outlaw” by Tupac Shakur
Moving onto another influential artist, Tupac Shakur, his song “Outlaw” also resonates with themes of outlaws.
The song reflects on the life of an outlaw, emphasizing the idea of a life of crime and disrespect for authority.
The lyrics are steeped in the gangsta rap genre, suggesting the individual in the song is a part of a gang, and the chorus reinforces that notion.
The song is a reflection of the artist’s life and the experiences of the people around him, creating a portrait of a life of crime and violence.
8. “Outlaw In Me” by The Lacs
The Lacs’ single, “Outlaw In Me”, delves into outlaw themes in a distinct manner compared to Tupac’s “Outlaw”.
Featuring an up-tempo sound and festive atmosphere, the track has an exuberant feel.
Lyrically, the song speaks to the idea that anyone can have an outlaw spirit, regardless of their background or social standing.
This message of empowerment resonates with listeners, making it an inspiring song.
9. I’m An Outlaw” by Fatal
Fatal’s single, “I’m An Outlaw”, provides an edgier take on outlaw themes compared to The Lacs’ “Outlaw In Me”.
The song centres on themes of resilience and resistance, with Fatal defiantly proclaiming that no one can control the narrative of their own life.
The track’s hard-hitting beats and aggressive rap style drives the point of the song home, reflecting the attitude of someone who is willing to stand up for themselves regardless of the consequences.
The song celebrates the spirit of those who refuse to let life dictate their future.
10. “Outlaw & Outsiders” by Cory Marks
Cory Marks’ single, “Outlaw & Outsiders”, further explores the concept of standing up against societal expectations through its hard-hitting instrumentals and lyrical expression.
The song is driven by a crunchy guitar riff and thumping bassline, which emphasize the rebellious message, while Mars’ vocals add a sense of urgency and defiance.
The lyrics focus on standing up to authority and being true to oneself, regardless of the consequences.
This song offers an inspiring message for anyone looking to go against the grain and make their own path.
11. “Outlaw Man” by Eagles
Eagles’ classic single, “Outlaw Man”, carries on the theme of standing up to society’s expectations with its emotionally charged melody and meaningful lyrics.
The song describes a man who chooses to forego traditional values in favour of living outside of the law.
It is a powerful anthem for anyone who feels constrained by societal conventions.
The chorus encourages the listener to break free from the boundaries of society, while the country-rock instrumentals create an uplifting atmosphere.
The song is a timeless reminder that one can make their own way in life, regardless of what is expected.
12. “Outlaw Women” by Hank Williams Jr.
Hank Williams Jr.’s outlaw anthem, “Outlaw Women”, is an ode to the courage and independence of women who challenge the status quo.
The lyrics reflect female strength and resilience in the face of adversity, celebrating the indomitable spirit of the female outlaw.
The song speaks to the power of the individual to take control of their destiny, regardless of the rules and expectations of society.
It is an anthem of rebellion, a call to arms against the constraints of conformity.
13. “Stuck In The Morning” by Night Beats
The psychedelic rock anthem “Stuck In The Morning” by Night Beats captures the essence of a generation determined to break free from the confines of society.
The song’s lyrics express a theme of freedom and independence, with the outlaws of the past as inspirations.
The instrumentation is a blend of rock and blues, featuring a driving guitar and bass to emphasize the recklessness of the narrator’s journey.
The chorus builds to a climax, culminating in a powerful message of liberation from societal norms.
This song is an ode to the outlaws of the past and a rallying cry for generations to come.
14. “Outlaws” by Green Day
Green Day’s “Outlaws” is a raucous punk rock anthem that speaks to the rebellious nature of youth, encouraging them to stand up and fight for their beliefs.
The song is driven by an aggressive guitar riff and a driving drumbeat, which give the song an edgy and rebellious sound.
Lyrically, the song is a call to arms, urging listeners to defy authority and stand up for their principles.
The chorus is an emphatic call to arms, as the lyrics emphasize the rebellious spirit of the song.
Overall, the song is an effective rallying cry for young people to stand up and be heard.
15. “Outlaw State Of Mind” by Chris Stapleton
Chris Stapleton’s “Outlaw State of Mind” is an upbeat country-rock song that celebrates the life of the outlaw and celebrates the wild side of life.
Lyrically, the song paints a picture of a life of freedom and adventure, while musically it features a driving beat and an abundance of twangy guitars.
The song is a tribute to those who live life on their own terms and fearlessly challenge authority.
Stapleton captures the spirit of the outlaw in a way that is both spirited and thought-provoking.
The song is an uplifting anthem that is sure to inspire those who dream of living life on their own terms.
Best Songs About Outlaws – Final Thoughts
The outlaw narrative has long been a mainstay of the music industry.
From Woody Guthrie’s classic “Vigilante Man” to modern hits such as Morgan Wallen’s “Outlaw”, the outlaw story has captivated audiences for decades.
The outlaw persona has been used to express emotions of rebelliousness, defiance, and independence, as well as themes of love, loss, and resilience.
The songs discussed above demonstrate the timelessness of the outlaw narrative in music.
From classic country to modern rock, the outlaw motif is a reminder of the power of music to evoke emotion and tell stories of the human experience.
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