About the song
“That’s What You Get for Loving Me” is a classic song that showcases the rugged charm and storytelling prowess of Waylon Jennings, one of country music’s most iconic figures. Released in 1967, Jennings’ version of the song captured the rebellious spirit that would later define the “outlaw” movement in country music. The song itself was originally written by Canadian folk singer Gordon Lightfoot, whose introspective and often bittersweet lyrics resonated deeply with audiences.
Waylon Jennings, already an established artist by 1967, brought his own distinctive style to “That’s What You Get for Loving Me.” His deep, resonant voice and the straightforward, almost conversational delivery of the lyrics gave the song a new dimension. Jennings’ version stands out for its honesty and rawness, qualities that would become hallmarks of his later work. The song tells the story of a man who is unapologetically aware of his own flaws and the inevitable heartbreak he brings to those who love him. It’s a tale of fleeting love and the consequences of loving a man who is bound to wander, a theme that resonated with many listeners who could relate to the restless spirit embodied in the song.
The lyrics of “That’s What You Get for Loving Me” are direct and unflinching, with lines like “That’s what you get for loving me, I ain’t the kind to hang around.” These words, coupled with Jennings’ no-nonsense delivery, paint a picture of a man who is as independent as he is unreliable, a drifter who moves on without regret. This portrayal of a love ‘em and leave ‘em character was somewhat atypical for the time, especially in country music, which often emphasized themes of devotion and loyalty.
Despite the song’s somewhat cynical message, it struck a chord with audiences. Jennings’ interpretation added a layer of depth to Lightfoot’s original composition, making it a hit on the country charts. The song was part of Jennings’ larger body of work during the 1960s, a period when he was still finding his artistic voice but already showing signs of the rebelliousness that would later define his career.
For older and educated audiences, “That’s What You Get for Loving Me” is more than just a song; it’s a snapshot of an era when country music was beginning to push against the boundaries of traditionalism. Jennings, with his laid-back yet assertive style, was at the forefront of this movement, and this song is a perfect example of how he could take a folk song and infuse it with the raw emotion and authenticity that became his trademark.
In revisiting this track, listeners are reminded of the complexity of love and the human condition, themes that Jennings explored throughout his career. “That’s What You Get for Loving Me” remains a poignant reminder of the risks and rewards of loving someone who is, at heart, a wanderer. It’s a timeless piece that continues to resonate with those who appreciate the deeper, sometimes darker, aspects of country music.
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Lyrics
That’s what you get for lovin’ me
That’s what you get for lovin’ me
Everything we had is gone, if you can’t see
That’s what you get for lovin’ me
Don’t you shed a tear for me
I ain’t the love you thought I’d be
I’ve had a hundred just like you but don’t be blue
I’ll have a thousand before I’m through
That’s what you get for lovin’ me
That’s what you get for lovin’ me
Everything we had is gone, if you can’t see
That’s what you get for lovin’ me
There you go, you’re cryin’ again
You should have known how things would end
But someday when your poor heart is on the mend
I just might pass this way again
That’s what you get for lovin’ me
That’s what you get for lovin’ me
Everything we had is gone, if you can’t see
That’s what you get for lovin’ me
That’s what you get for lovin’ me
That’s what you get…