Waylon Jennings’ Last Recordings Set for Release

Ten years ago this week, country music lost one of its original outlaws. Waylon Jennings died Feb. 13, 2002, from complications of diabetes. He was 64 years old.

Although the legendary performer certainly hasn't been forgotten since that time, Waylon's family is taking steps to further cement his status as one of country music's true icons. Later this year will see the release of a 12-track collection of songs Waylon recorded shortly before his death. Tentatively titled 'Goin' Down Rockin': The Final Recordings,' eight of the songs on the compilation are previously unreleased. The Associated Press reports that the vocal and guitar tracks were recorded at steel guitarist Robby Turner's studio before Waylon died. Musicians who worked with the entertainer assembled to finish the recordings.

Other projects in the works, according to Waylon's son, Shooter Jennings, include launching a clothing line, a redesigned community-based website and a biopic. Last week, the second installment of the three-part tribute 'Waylon: The Music Inside,' was released, featuring songs from Hank Williams Jr., Dierks Bentley, Jewel and more.

"I do feel like it's time for him to have a presence," says Shooter. "It should have been before, but I don't think anybody was ready to take it on. I certainly wasn't. I know this year we're about to bring him back."

Shooter also reveals that he's been working with T-shirt designer Blood Is the New Black.

"There will be Waylon shirts next to the [Johnny] Cash shirts at Hot Topic, and our shirts will be cooler," he jokes. A line of high-end fashion clothing is also in the works.

In addition to the just-released 'Music Inside' volume, on Feb. 28, fans can travel back to 1983 for one of Waylon's most noteworthy performances. The new CD from Shout! Factory, 'Waylon Jennings Live at the US Festival,' features 22 tracks recorded on 'Country Day' at the legendary California music festival. A DVD of Waylon's appearance was released last November.

No matter what new projects and products are introduced to raise the profile of the man who got his start playing bass for Buddy Holly, there are already hundreds of songs he recorded during his lifetime that can vividly illustrate his legacy with one listen.

In the spirit of all this good news for Waylon fans, whether you're a newbie, a latecomer or a lifelong devotee to his artistry, The Boot picks ten of our favorite Waylon Jennings songs to remember a true 'Nashville Rebel.'

10. 'Good Hearted Woman'

9. 'I Can Get Off on You' (with Willie Nelson)

8. 'Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way'

7. 'Luckenbach, Texas (Back to the Basics of Love)'

6. 'Only Daddy That'll Walk the Line'

5. 'America'

4. 'Good Ol' Boys (Theme From 'The Dukes of Hazzard')'

3. 'Storms Never Last' (with Jessi Coulter)

2. 'Mammas Don't Let Your Babies Grow up to Be Cowboys' (with Willie Nelson)

1. 'Dreaming My Dreams With You'