Waylon Jennings, the man with the gravelly voice and outlaw attitude, was a giant in country music. He gave us hits like “Luckenbach, Texas” and “Mammas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys.” Sadly, this legend left us in 2002.
But how did Waylon Jennings die? Let’s take a look at the life he lived and the health problems that eventually led to his passing.
Waylon’s Early Life and Music Career
Waylon Jennings was born in Littlefield, Texas, on June 15, 1937. He started playing guitar when he was just eight years old! By the time he was a teenager, he was already performing on the radio.
He moved to Arizona and met Buddy Holly, another rising star in music. Waylon played bass for Buddy for a short time. He even gave up his seat on the plane that tragically crashed and killed Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson.
In the 1960s, Waylon moved to Nashville and signed with RCA Victor. He became a popular country music singer with his own unique style. He was part of a group of artists known as the “Outlaws,” who rebelled against the traditional Nashville sound.
Waylon Jennings’ Health Struggles
Waylon was known for his hard-living lifestyle. He struggled with drug addiction for many years, especially cocaine. This took a toll on his health.
In the 1980s, Waylon finally got help for his addiction. He became sober and focused on his music and family. However, years of drug abuse had damaged his body. He developed diabetes, a serious illness that affects how your body uses sugar for energy.
Diabetes and Its Complications
Diabetes can cause many health problems, including:
- Heart disease: The heart has to work harder when you have diabetes.
- Kidney disease: Diabetes can damage the kidneys, which clean your blood.
- Nerve damage: High blood sugar can hurt the nerves in your feet and legs.
- Foot problems: Nerve damage and poor blood flow can lead to serious foot infections.
| Complication | Description |
|---|---|
| Heart Disease | Increased risk of heart attacks and strokes |
| Kidney Disease | Reduced kidney function, potentially requiring dialysis |
| Nerve Damage | Numbness, tingling, and pain in extremities |
| Eye Problems | Vision loss and blindness |
| Foot Problems | Sores and infections that may lead to amputation |
Waylon’s diabetes led to some of these complications. He had problems with his feet and legs due to nerve damage and poor blood flow.
How Did Waylon Jennings Die?
In 2001, Waylon’s health took a turn for the worse. His diabetes-related foot problems became very serious. Doctors had to amputate part of his left foot to stop the spread of infection.
Sadly, his health continued to decline. On February 13, 2002, Waylon Jennings passed away in his sleep at his home in Chandler, Arizona. He was 64 years old. The official cause of death was listed as complications from diabetes.
Waylon’s Legacy
Even though Waylon is gone, his music continues to inspire and entertain people worldwide. He is remembered as one of the most important figures in country music history.
Waylon Jennings helped change the sound of country music. He paved the way for other artists to break the rules and be themselves. His music is still played on the radio today, and his influence can be heard in the work of many modern country singers.
FAQs
Is Waylon Jennings still alive?
No, Waylon Jennings passed away on February 13, 2002.
What were Waylon Jennings’ biggest hits?
Some of his most popular songs include “Luckenbach, Texas,” “Mammas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys,” “Good Hearted Woman,” and “Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way.”
Was Waylon Jennings married?
Yes, Waylon Jennings was married four times. His last marriage was to Jessi Colter, a singer and songwriter. They were married for over 30 years.
What was Waylon Jennings’ role in the plane crash that killed Buddy Holly?
Waylon Jennings was the bass player for Buddy Holly’s band. He gave up his seat on the plane to J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson, who was feeling unwell. The plane crashed, killing everyone on board.
Where is Waylon Jennings buried?
Waylon Jennings is buried in the City of Mesa Cemetery in Mesa, Arizona.