Introduction:
After decades of forging his own path in music—while carrying the immense legacy of one of country music’s most iconic surnames—Shooter Jennings is now sharing his most personal story yet: an unfiltered, deeply heartfelt tribute to his mother, Jessi Colter.
At 46, Shooter has reached a reflective crossroads in both life and career. And in looking back, he’s finally putting words to a truth that many fans and insiders have quietly believed for years — that Jessi Colter was never just the woman beside Waylon Jennings. She was the soul, the steady compass, and often the unsung hero behind one of country music’s most storied families.
“She was the glue,” Shooter revealed. “People always talk about my dad’s outlaw legacy—and they should. But the real foundation of it all? That was my mom.”
Born Mirriam Johnson, Jessi Colter carved out her place in the male-dominated outlaw country scene with unforgettable hits like “I’m Not Lisa.” But beyond the stage lights and studio sessions, she was facing a much deeper challenge: balancing life as an artist, a mother, and the emotional anchor in a world that was often anything but steady.
“There were tough times,” Shooter shared. “Addiction, fame, chaos—sometimes it all hit at once. But she never cracked. She had this unshakable belief in something bigger than herself. And she believed in us.”
While the public saw a powerful performer, behind the scenes Jessi was the quiet force that held the family together. Through Waylon’s battles, the pressures of the industry, and the intense spotlight on their lives, it was Jessi’s unwavering faith, patience, and resilience that gave Shooter both a home and a moral compass.
“I’ve made my own music and my own decisions,” he said. “But the way I live my life—that’s her influence. The way I treat people. The way I handle adversity. I learned all that from watching her.”
Now in her 80s, Jessi Colter remains a beacon of grace and strength. She still sings. She still writes. And she continues to inspire her son to stay true to himself.
“She always tells me, ‘Don’t let the world define you. You define yourself.’ That’s been my mantra since I was a kid.”
For decades, fans have seen Jessi Colter as a cornerstone of country music royalty. But only now are many beginning to understand the true depth of her influence—her quiet courage, the sacrifices she made, and the powerful legacy of love and integrity she passed on to her son.
“She’s the strongest person I’ve ever known,” Shooter said simply. “And if there’s anything good in me—it’s because of her.”
While the world will forever remember Waylon Jennings for redefining country music, Shooter Jennings is ensuring that Jessi Colter’s story—her strength, her heart, her legacy—is finally told with the reverence it deserves.