If you’ve spent any time listening to the gritty, rebellious sounds of "Outlaw Country," the name Jessi Colter probably brings to mind that haunting voice on "I'm Not Lisa" or her legendary partnership with Waylon Jennings. But time flies. One minute it’s 1976 and she’s the only woman on the diamond-certified Wanted! The Outlaws album, and the next, we’re looking at a calendar for 2026.
So, how old is Jessi Colter exactly?
As of right now, in early 2026, Jessi Colter is 82 years old. She was born on May 25, 1943. When her next birthday rolls around in May 2026, she’ll be turning 83. Honestly, it’s kind of wild to think about the sheer amount of history she’s lived through, from the birth of rock and roll to the modern digital streaming era where she’s still very much a relevant figure.
The Early Days of Mirriam Johnson
Before she was Jessi, she was Mirriam Johnson, a girl from Phoenix, Arizona, raised in a strict Pentecostal household. Her mom was actually a preacher, which was pretty rare back then. You can still hear those gospel roots in her piano playing today.
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By age 11, she was the church pianist. That’s not just a cute hobby; that’s where she learned the soul and the "meat" of her musicality.
She didn't stay a "church girl" forever, though. At 18, she met guitar legend Duane Eddy. They married in 1961, and she hit the road, traveling the world and writing songs under the name Mirriam Eddy. They eventually divorced in 1968, but that period was crucial because it’s when she really sharpened her teeth as a songwriter. Some of her tunes were even recorded by icons like Nancy Sinatra and Dottie West.
Why Jessi Colter Still Matters in 2026
People often ask about her age because she’s stayed remarkably active. Most folks her age are long retired, but Jessi has had a massive creative "second wind" over the last few years.
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Take her 2023 album, Edge of Forever. It wasn’t just a nostalgia trip. Produced by Margo Price and mixed by Jessi’s son, Shooter Jennings, it proved she still has that same dusty, soulful vocal power. It even included a "lost" song found in Waylon’s old briefcase. That’s the kind of stuff that keeps fans hooked.
She’s also found personal happiness again. In 2023, she married Arlin Brower. After being Waylon’s widow since 2002, seeing her find love again in her late 70s was a story that resonated with a lot of people. It’s a reminder that life doesn’t just stop when you hit a certain number.
A Timeline of the Outlaw Queen
- May 25, 1943: Born Mirriam Johnson in Phoenix.
- 1961: Marries Duane Eddy and begins her professional music journey.
- 1969: Marries Waylon Jennings, forming one of country music's most iconic power couples.
- 1975: "I'm Not Lisa" hits #1 on the country charts and crosses over to the pop Top 5.
- 1976: Becomes the "First Lady" of Outlaw Country with the release of Wanted! The Outlaws.
- 2002: Faces the loss of Waylon Jennings.
- 2023: Releases the critically acclaimed album Edge of Forever and remarries.
- 2026: Continues her legacy as a living legend at 82.
Managing the Legacy and the Family
Jessi isn't just a singer; she’s the matriarch of a musical dynasty. Her son, Shooter Jennings, is one of the most respected producers in Nashville and Los Angeles today. He’s worked with everyone from Brandi Carlile to Duff McKagan.
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She’s spoken often about how her faith—that Pentecostal upbringing—has been the "anchor" that kept her sane through the wild years of the 70s and 80s. If you haven't read her memoir, An Outlaw and a Lady, you really should. It’s not your typical celebrity tell-all. It’s more of a spiritual journey through the lens of a woman who was at the epicenter of a musical revolution.
Common Misconceptions About Jessi Colter
- She was just "Waylon's Wife": This is a big one that people get wrong. While their love story was epic, Jessi was a chart-topping, Grammy-nominated artist in her own right before they ever became a "team."
- She retired years ago: Nope. Between her 2017 project The Psalms and her 2023 album, she’s been consistently creating.
- Her name is just a stage name: Well, technically yes, but it has deep roots. She took the name "Jessi Colter" from her great-great-great uncle, Jesse Colter, who actually rode with the James Gang. Talk about commitment to the "outlaw" brand.
What’s Next for the First Lady of Outlaw Country?
As we move through 2026, Jessi seems content to balance her private life in Arizona with occasional appearances and projects that "resonate" with her. She’s famously said that she doesn't do things just for the sake of doing them anymore. If she’s putting her name on it, it has to mean something.
For fans wondering how old is Jessi Colter because they want to know if they'll ever see her perform again—keep an eye on Nashville. She occasionally pops up for special events or collaborations with Shooter.
If you want to truly appreciate her journey, start by listening to her 1970 debut A Country Star is Born and then jump straight to Edge of Forever. The growth is incredible, but the core—that soulful, slightly vulnerable, yet incredibly strong woman—is exactly the same.
Next Steps for Fans:
- Check out the documentary They Called Us Outlaws if you want to see rare footage of Jessi during the peak of the 70s movement.
- Listen to "Standing on the Edge of Forever" to hear how her voice has matured into a rich, timeless instrument.
- Follow Shooter Jennings' social channels, as he often shares updates on his mother’s latest creative ventures and family milestones.