An anthem of resilience, urging acceptance of life’s unpredictable path.
“Takin’ It As It Comes,” a deeply resonant track often associated with the quintessential “outlaw country” spirit of Jerry Jeff Walker, is more than just a song; it’s a philosophy set to music. While it never became a major presence on the Billboard Hot 100 or Country Singles charts upon its primary releases, its stature among country-folk aficionados—especially those who came of age in the 1970s and 80s—is monumental. The song’s enduring appeal lies not in commercial triumph, but in its honest, unvarnished depiction of hard-won wisdom, making it a beloved piece for those who appreciate the poetry of the American rambling life.
The song’s story is intertwined with the circle of musicians who defined the “cosmic cowboy” scene in Austin, Texas. It was penned by Bobby Rambo, a talented guitarist and songwriter who was a contemporary and collaborator of Walker. Walker first included his recording of the song on his 1981 compilation album, Great Gonzos, though it was re-released on the 1995 album Night After Night, which might be why some sources date it later. It is the earlier recording and its constant inclusion in Walker‘s legendary live shows that cemented its reputation. It’s a song born of late nights, cheap beer, and the shared understanding among artists that life on the road and in the music business is anything but a straight line.
Its meaning is clear and universally applicable, yet delivered with a uniquely Texan, road-weary grace: Takin’ It As It Comes is an ode to stoicism and improvisation. The lyrics speak to letting go of the need for absolute control and embracing the unpredictable nature of existence. It’s about accepting the good and the bad—the “sunshine or the thunder” mentioned in the lyrics—and finding a kind of profound, quiet peace in that acceptance. For many of us older readers, who have navigated decades of unexpected turns, career shifts, and personal losses, this sentiment hits deep. It’s a comforting nod to the fact that sometimes, the only way through the messiness of life is to simply put one foot in front of the other and “take it as it comes.”
In the context of Jerry Jeff Walker‘s broader career—the man who gave the world the melancholic beauty of “Mr. Bojangles” and helped define the Austin sound with albums like Viva Terlingua—”Takin’ It As It Comes” is a perfect, complementary piece. It captures his essential spirit: that of the rambling, free-spirited artist who valued authentic experience over commercial polish. His rendition, often featuring his warm, slightly weathered voice, coupled with simple, eloquent instrumentation, feels like a conversation with a trusted, long-time friend over a final drink at the bar. It’s a moment of reflective honesty, a moment where the years of hard living and hard loving coalesce into one simple, powerful piece of advice. It’s a song for anyone who has felt the pull of the open road, the sting of disappointment, and the quiet joy of finding resilience within themselves. It’s a genuine piece of Americana, weathered and true.