Few voices in country music resonate with the grit, authenticity, and raw emotion of Waylon Jennings, and his 1982 classic “Women Do Know How to Carry On” perfectly showcases this unique storytelling power. Featured on the iconic album Black on Black, the track blends Jennings’ outlaw country edge with a heartfelt tribute to the quiet strength and resilience of women.
The song opens with a slow, deliberate groove, underpinned by Waylon’s signature baritone and evocative steel guitar. Its unpolished, sincere delivery mirrors the song’s message: honoring women’s ability to face life’s challenges with grace and perseverance. The title itself delivers a profound truth with simple elegance.
Lyrically, “Women Do Know How to Carry On” isn’t your typical love song. Instead, it’s a tribute to endurance, empathy, and authenticity—a recurring theme throughout Jennings’ career. His lived-in vocal performance conveys firsthand understanding of life’s struggles and heartbreaks, making the song feel deeply personal and genuine.
On Black on Black, the track sits seamlessly among Jennings’ outlaw anthems, demonstrating his versatility. At a time when country music often relied on clichés, Waylon offered something real, raw, and relatable, a song that feels like a quiet conversation rather than a radio-ready hit.
Decades later, “Women Do Know How to Carry On” stands as a testament to Waylon Jennings’ enduring legacy—not just as a rebel of country music, but as a poet capturing life’s real stories. With minimal production and maximum heart, it continues to inspire listeners and honor the timeless strength of women everywhere.