Dwight Yoakam Marks Anniversary of ‘A Long Way Home’
Fans revisit the artist’s ninth LP as its honky-tonk twang celebrates 25 years this summer
Image: Instagram
On June 7, 1998, country star Dwight Yoakam unveiled his ninth studio album, A Long Way Home, further cementing his reputation as a honky-tonk trailblazer. Two and a half decades later, the record remains a touchstone for fans drawn to Yoakam’s blend of traditional Bakersfield sound and modern storytelling.
A Honky-tonk Milestone
A Long Way Home arrived just as Yoakam had wrapped his critically acclaimed Under the Covers tour. Produced by Pete Anderson and Yoakam himself, the album blends pedal steel, twangy Telecaster riffs and raw vocals on tracks that range from the reflective to the rollicking. Its lead single, “Things Change,” peaked at No. 17 on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart, while follow-ups like “These Arms” and “Forever Few” showcased his gift for melancholy balladry.
The album debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart and cracked the Top 50 on the Billboard 200, proof of Yoakam’s crossover appeal. Reviewers at the time praised his return to honky-tonk roots after experimenting with more rock-inflected tones on previous releases. Over the years, songs from A Long Way Home have stayed in Yoakam’s live setlists, often earning standing ovations whenever the opening pedal steel riff hits.
Instagram Flashback
In a recent Instagram post, the official Dwight Yoakam account paid tribute to this milestone:
“#onthisday Dwight Yoakam released his ninth studio album, A Long Way Home. The record features fan favorites like ‘Things Change’ and showcases Dwight’s signature honky-tonk sound. What’s your favorite track? –D Team”
That capsule celebration sparked a wave of fan memories, with followers sharing stories of first seeing Yoakam live or discovering the album on cassette. Across social feeds, “A Long Way Home” gets tagged in anniversary playlists and TikTok videos that highlight its timeless blend of grit and groove.
Still Touring
While Yoakam’s catalog has grown to 17 studio albums, he hasn’t slowed the roadwork. A recent Instagram update from the D Team outlined his early June dates:
June 5 – Everwise Amphitheater, Indianapolis, IN
June 6 – La Crosse Center, La Crosse, WI
June 7 – Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center, Mankato, MN
Fans attending these shows can expect deep cuts from A Long Way Home alongside his signature hits like “Guitars, Cadillacs” and “Fast as You.” The Mankato gig, in particular, falls exactly 25 years after the album’s release, turning that night into an unplanned anniversary celebration for die-hard followers.
On The Air
Yoakam’s influence extends beyond the concert stage. His SiriusXM channel, Dwight Yoakam & The Bakersfield Beat (Channel 349), digs into country music history, featuring interviews, rare live cuts and thematic segments. Recent episodes have brought on legends like Larry Gatlin and William Shatner to discuss their Bakersfield connections—a fitting complement to the era that inspired A Long Way Home.
In one highlight, Yoakam and Gatlin explore songwriting from the late 1990s, trading stories on how simplicity and sincerity can turn a chord progression into a classic track. That conversation adds fresh context to the album’s stripped-back production and lyrical focus.
As streaming playlists flood with “25th Anniversary” edits and vinyl reissues of A Long Way Home command premium prices, the album’s staying power is clear. Whether you’re rediscovering its honky-tonk charm or catching Yoakam live this summer, Dwight’s ninth LP stands as a landmark in his storied career. Fans old and new will find much to admire in its blend of grit, melody and pure country soul.
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