Willie Nelson, the star who wasn't supposed to be

For old stuff, my favorite is Red Headed Stranger (1978) -- elegant in its own, very spare way; lyrical and moving. A great and pure Western album. For "newer" stuff, I think Across The Borderline (1993) has many terrific tunes on it, with covers of Hiatt, Lovett, Dylan, P Simon, Cooder included. The few or handful of duets on it are very nicely done. Don Was, producer, gets a really nice sound out of the sessions.

So much depends on which Willie you want to explore, because he is definitely a chameleon music wise.

I own a lot of his stuff and these are the ones that stand out for me:

1. Across the Borderline (1993). Willie doing covers. He is a gifted interpreter. His heartfelt best.

2. It Will Always Be (2004). Best singing and playing performance on an album in easily a dozen years. A songwriting workshop.

3. First Highwayman album (1985). Willie as the Outlaw with Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, and Kris Kristofferson.

If you like this genre of music, pick up a copy of Townes Van Zandt's
Texas Rain (2001). Great duet with Willie on "Maria."

See for yourself:

Highwayman

and

Townes Van Zandt

Regards,

Rich

Yes to all the above.

This being the Holly Jolly season, don't forget to get Willie's Christmas album.

the atlantic years were my favorite.

I like Teatro for both the music and sonics. Stardust is very nice also, Willie in his somber/sober mood. I'm going to check out "Across the Borderline."