Willie Nelson

5 Pages 1150 Words

When Bob Dylan wrote “he who is not busy being born is busy dying,” he could easily have been talking about Willie Nelson. Willie Nelson is one of contemporary music’s most genuine icons. On the verge of reaching the 70’s, the singer, songwriter, guitarist and actor remains an upbeat creative soul. Nelson’s career spans over more than 35 years, making 100 albums, and spending a large majority of time on the road.
Nelson’s life is easily portrayed on his first album for Island Records ‘Spirit.’ It was recorded with his friends and family in his home base studio Perdernales Studios, right outside of this very city, Austin, TX. Less is more is proved in the setting of Nelson’s Spirit, featuring a totally new crop of Nelson originals. It is a song cycle where the evasive simple setting brings an even greater depth and enchanting potency to the lyrics, which features another Texas legend Johnny Gimble on fiddle, sister Bobbie Nelson on piano, family member Jody Payne on rhythm guitar, and Nelson’s voice, songs and guitar. This soulsearching album on love and spirituality, uses country, traditional pop and gospel music to create something entirely original. ‘Spirit’ was made at a very significant time in Nelson’s career. The 1990’s was a decade where Nelson made the headlines many times. He had problems with the IRS (he settled his dept in 1993), a marijuana bust, and his departure from Col!
umbia Records. In the recent years, he has recorded a string of critically acclaimed albums, such as ‘Across the Borderline,’ ‘Moonlight Becomes You’ and ‘Just One Love.’ He also recorded two other albums with the Highwaymen- Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings and Kris Kristofferson. An alternative rock tribute album titled ‘Twisted Willie’ was also made. Nelson continues to tour with his band Willie Nelson & Family and the Highwaymen, as well. Nelson was the first country artist signed by Island Records in their ...