Hank Williams Jr. is well known for paying homage to the legendary figures of country music who paved the way for him. It’s no surprise that some of those legends were also close friends or even family members. Johnny Cash and Waylon Jennings were two such icons that Hank Jr. held in high regard, and with whom he shared deep connections.
June Carter Cash, Hank Jr.’s godmother, had known him since he was a child. Along with their mutual love for music, the two also shared a fascination with the history of the American Civil War.
Hank Jr. and the Jennings family were also close, as he revealed in a CMT interview. He and Waylon were good friends, and Hank Jr. even shared a special bond with Shooter, Waylon’s son, who had “CBCS” and a gun tattooed on his forearms, which stood for “country boy can survive”. Waylon’s parents were also dear friends of Hank Jr.
During his 2012 concert in Bossier City, Louisiana, Hank Jr. paid tribute to his late friends by seamlessly transitioning from Jennings’ famous Dukes of Hazzard theme song, “Good ‘Ol Boys,” to Cash’s iconic “Walk the Line.” The audience couldn’t help but join in and show their appreciation for the unforgettable performance. Hank Jr.’s unwavering love and respect for Johnny Cash and Waylon Jennings continue to inspire his music and his tribute performances.