Introduction
“Only Daddy That’ll Walk the Line” stands as a significant milestone in Waylon Jennings’ illustrious career, exemplifying his transition toward the “outlaw” country movement that redefined the genre in the late 1960s and 1970s. Written by renowned guitarist Jimmy Bryant, the song was recorded on April 16, 1968, at RCA Studio B in Nashville, Tennessee, under the production expertise of Chet Atkins. This track was subsequently released on July 13, 1968, as the second single from Jennings’ album “Only the Greatest.”
Upon its release, “Only Daddy That’ll Walk the Line” achieved remarkable success, spending eighteen weeks on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and peaking at the number two position for five consecutive weeks. Its popularity extended beyond the United States, reaching number one on the Canadian RPM Country Tracks chart on September 30, 1968.
The song’s robust and compelling vocal style was noted by Billboard magazine in their review of the album, highlighting Jennings’ distinctive delivery.
The song’s influence extended beyond Jennings’ own performances. In 1969, Linda Ronstadt offered a gender-reversed rendition titled “The Only Mama That’ll Walk the Line,” which became a staple in her live performances during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Additionally, The Kentucky Headhunters recorded a cover version for their 1991 album “Electric Barnyard,” which spent seven weeks on the charts, peaking at number 60.
The enduring appeal of “Only Daddy That’ll Walk the Line” is further evidenced by its inclusion in various media. Notably, the song was featured in the television series “Mad Men” (season seven, episode five) and was briefly played in the film “Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby.”
Moreover, the song has been covered by various artists over the years, including Randy Travis, who included his rendition in his 2014 album “Influence Vol. 2: The Man I Am.”
In summary, “Only Daddy That’ll Walk the Line” is more than just a song in Waylon Jennings’ repertoire; it is a testament to his influential role in shaping the direction of country music. Its success and the numerous covers by other artists underscore its lasting impact and significance in the genre’s history.