Country legend Willie Nelson, at the spry age of 92, is showing no signs of slowing down.
Celebrating his birthday on April 29th, Nelson continues to captivate audiences with the same vigor that has made him a beloved figure in music for nearly 70 years. Brushing off previous health scares like emphysema and COVID-19, the singer-songwriter is still very much in the game.
With the release of his staggering 76th solo studio album, "The Last Leaf on the Tree," Nelson opens up about his views on ageing and the inevitable approach of death. But true to his nature, he's facing it all with a characteristic laid-back approach.
In a conversation with the Associated Press, Nelson expressed his nonchalant perspective on life's final chapter: "I'm 91 plus, so, you know, I'm not worried about it," he remarked. "I don't feel bad. I don't hurt anywhere. I don't have any reason to worry about dying."
He continued, "I take pretty good care of myself. And I feel like I'm in pretty good shape physically. Mentally? That's another story," adding a touch of humor to the discussion. His latest album, produced by his son Micah, delves into themes of legacy and the art of embracing one's twilight years with dignity.
Featuring renditions of tracks by Tom Waits and Beck, alongside fresh originals including a collaboration with Micah, the album reflects Willie's musings on confronting mortality with elegance and poise.
Willie Nelson stands as the sole survivor of The Highwaymen, the legendary supergroup which also featured country music giants Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, and Kris Kristofferson— the latter passed away in September 2024 at age 88. Reflecting on Kristofferson's passing, Nelson expressed his emotions to AP.
"He left a lot of fantastic songs around for the rest of us to sing, for as long as we're here," said Nelson. "Kris was a great friend of mine. And, you know, we just kind of had a lot of fun together and made a lot of music together – videos, movies. I hated to lose him. That was a sad time."
Last October, despite dealing with sorrow, Willie charmed an audience in Houston, Texas, performing at a rally supporting Vice President Kamala Harris. Armed with his revered guitar Trigger, he delighted fans with renditions of favorites like Mammas Don't Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys and On the Road Again.
A memorable incident from the event was his emotional reunion with Beyoncé. The globally-renowned artist, who heralds from Texas herself, paid homage to Nelson on Instagram, reminiscing about their first encounter back when she was part of Destiny's Child.
"You were so kind to me and the girls of Destiny's Child when we fanned out meeting you years ago," Beyoncé warmly recounted. "And you greeted me with the same kindness 20 years later! I admire you, and I sincerely thank you for being the pioneer you are… You are 1 of 1."
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