Diamonds

"Back in 2024 when I opened my dad’s personal recording archives, I found a treasure trove of unheard recordings. It was a life altering event and immediately ignited a feeling of urgency to get these recordings out there to our family of fans who had so loyally kept him alive by listening to and singing his music.

Last year I released 'Songbird' and I was so touched and delighted at how well received this music was for my dad. With his voice exalted, I was very excited to deliver on my promise for more music. So, here it goes! I give to you guys, 'Diamonds'!

In the process of combing through and cataloging all of his recordings, I started to get a grasp on all of the music that had not been heard before, and a story started to emerge in my mind. The way I wanted to reveal all of this music to the world was part of my job. With 'Songbird' I knew it would be an emotional journey, hearing Waylon, in his prime, sing new songs to us was going to hit hard. A set of songs almost immediately presented itself to me as 'Songbird'. But there was a 2nd set forming, anchored by the mysterious song 'Diamonds'. It was a higher energy album, a younger man’s album, if you will.

I immediately knew which songs were attaching themselves to the 2nd album, and they all shared stories about the rollercoaster of relationships and unrequited love. Among the many Jessi Colter songs I found in the batch, 2 stood out as part of what 'Diamonds' was becoming, so I selected them to add to the album to weave the tale a little more colorfully. Again, the Waylors and legendary harp player Mickey Raphael helped me close the book on a few of these songs. We had a blast. Now, I’m done and 'Diamonds' is soon in your hands (November 13th, 2026). Pour yourself a cup of something, turn down the lights and let’s take a ride together.”

~ Shooter Jennings