Willie Works Up 78th Studio Album But It’s Not What You Think

Willie Nelson's New Album Pays Tribute To Old Pal Merle Haggard

One of many gifts from God is the incomparable Willie Nelson. On November 7, he released his 78th solo studio album, but it's not the new music everyone was hoping for. It's something far more personal for Willie, a collection of cover songs by his late friend, Merle Haggard. Workin' Man: Willie Sings Merle is available on all streaming platforms and purchase sites per the norm. Additionally, you can find all the goodies, information, and special purchase packages on Willie's website. For vinyl collectors like me, the single LP is available on black vinyl on his website. You can check out the title song from the album below.

  Not Willie's First Rodeo...Obviously

Willie Nelson is one of the few OG's we have left in the country music genre. It's hard to believe his career spans over 70 years, but it does! Many times before, Willie has released tribute albums to his friends and fellow songwriters. In fact, over just the last decade, he's released albums with covers or interpretations of Harlan Howard, Ray Price, George Gershwin, Rodney Crowell, and Frank Sinatra. Wilson and Haggard were no strangers to collaborations, having released three albums together: 1983’s Pancho and Lefty, 2007’s Last Of The Breed (with Ray Price), and 2015’s Django and Jimmie. Check out the music video for one of my favorites, Pancho and Lefty, below.

Workin' Man Delivers Classic Willie As Merle

Willie Nelson has a distinguished sound, which makes the tribute album even more appealing to me. Merle's well-known words, sung in a heartbreaking style only Willie can deliver, will leave listeners feeling nostalgic for the 70's. Here's the track listing:

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Here's some original nostalgia for you. Merle Haggard in a live version of Mama Tried.