About the Song
Burning the Candle at Both Ends: Rodney Crowell’s “I Ain’t Living Long Like This”
Rodney Crowell’s “I Ain’t Living Long Like This” is a quintessential honky-tonk anthem, a raucous celebration of a life lived on the edge. Released in 1978 on his album of the same name, the song perfectly captures the spirit of the outlaw country movement that was sweeping through Nashville at the time. With its driving rhythm, gritty vocals, and lyrics that speak to the reckless abandon of youth, it’s a song that has resonated with generations of music fans.
Crowell, a gifted songwriter with a knack for crafting tales of ordinary people grappling with extraordinary circumstances, delivers a masterclass in storytelling with “I Ain’t Living Long Like This.” The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man who’s burning the candle at both ends, fueled by a potent cocktail of whiskey, women, and a desire to live life on his own terms. He’s fully aware that his lifestyle is unsustainable, even acknowledging the inevitable consequences with the song’s title. Yet, there’s a defiant streak in his voice, a refusal to conform to societal expectations or slow down.
The song’s energy is infectious, thanks in no small part to the stellar musicianship. The driving honky-tonk piano, the twangy guitars, and the pulsating bassline create an irresistible groove that’s impossible not to move to. Crowell’s vocals are raw and full of emotion, perfectly conveying the protagonist’s mix of bravado and vulnerability.
While “I Ain’t Living Long Like This” is undoubtedly a product of its time, its themes of rebellion, self-destruction, and the fleeting nature of youth are timeless. It’s a song that speaks to the inner outlaw in all of us, the part that yearns for freedom and adventure, even if it comes at a cost. Whether you’re a longtime fan of country music or simply appreciate a well-crafted song, “I Ain’t Living Long Like This” is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Interestingly, the song has a rich history, having been recorded by other notable artists. Gary Stewart first released it in 1977, and Emmylou Harris, with whom Crowell had a long personal and professional relationship, included a memorable version on her 1978 album Quarter Moon in a Ten Cent Town. Each artist brings their own unique interpretation to the song, but Crowell’s original remains the definitive version, a raw and powerful testament to his songwriting genius.