Happy 88th Birthday Willie. A tribute to the master singer/songwriter and American icon. Includes previously unpublished great story involving Gregg Allman, Dickey Betts and Billy Joe Shaver.
That's a hilarious bit at the end about Dickey Betts! Here in Texas, I cannot tell you how revered he is. I've had the honor of interviewing him twice and being on the bus for a third time (where, oddly, I sat by a sleeping David Allan Coe). But probably my most vivid memory is after a show here in Houston about 15/16 years ago. Willie came out the parking lot, stood there, signed everything thrust at him and took every picture with fans he could for well over an hour right after playing the show. He didn't have to do that.
That's a hilarious bit at the end about Dickey Betts! Here in Texas, I cannot tell you how revered he is. I've had the honor of interviewing him twice and being on the bus for a third time (where, oddly, I sat by a sleeping David Allan Coe). But probably my most vivid memory is after a show here in Houston about 15/16 years ago. Willie came out the parking lot, stood there, signed everything thrust at him and took every picture with fans he could for well over an hour right after playing the show. He didn't have to do that.
Maybe it's a Texas courtesy thing. Stevie Ray was famous for doing the same. Glad you enjoyed.
Wonderful piece...really captures the essence of a Texas world treasure.
Thank you.
I love Willie Nelson- great article and I had NO idea he wrote “Crazy” which is one of my favorite songs.
Thank you. Glad I could educate you on that amazing fact.
So nice to meet you at GABBAFEST last year.
Thanks... not sure I'm gonna make it this year.. weekend of my wife's birthday.
Country 59 Willie's Rdhouse!
Even in Ocean County New Jersey!!
I enjoy it, but it's too old school for me to listen to at length TBH. I listen to outlaw country more... one of my top stations.
Great stories and memories!
Willie Nelson is precious, can’t imagine the world without him. Thanks for a great tribute to this wonderful, unique man who has given us so much.
thanks and you're welome.