Willie Nelson is 72 years old, and has written over 2500 songs. He was interviewed recently by Terry Gross for NPR's Fresh Air.
The occasion is the release of a new album, The Complete Atlantic Sessions, a compilation of three other albums, as well as the success of his new book, The Tao of Willie: A Guide to the Happiness in Your Heart. He read up on different religions and Chinese philosophy and has come to believe in reincarnation.
In the interview, Willie talks about his life, sings a couple of songs, tells some stories. He talks about smoking marijuana, biodiesel (he is part owner in a biodiesel company), Johnny Cash, singing with Bob Dylan.
He's had his ups and downs but retains his sense of humor and in fact, loves to laugh and tell jokes. No mean feat for someone who can also wail the sorriest, saddest crying-in-your-beer songs you've ever heard. Songs he likely also wrote.
I've heard Willie in concert a couple of times, and look forward to the next opportunity. His voice is different and distinctive. His song-writing skills, non-pareil.
To hear the interview, go here and click on "listen".
[Illustrations from Bio-Willie, The Texas Music Project, and Amazon]
My wife and I just saw the movie "Brokeback Mountain." It was excellent movie.
The closing song was Willie Nelson's "He Was a Friend of Mine." It was perfect.
Posted by: Stryder | June 07, 2006 at 03:55 PM
I regret that I missed him when he was here in Charleston. What was I thinking?
Posted by: Joan | June 08, 2006 at 07:17 AM