Concerns For Willie Nelson After Breathy CMA Awards Performance
Fans of true country music were very happy to hear that Willie Nelson was tapped to perform at the CMA Awards in 2019—the first time the country legend has taken the CMA stage since 2012. The CMAs paired him up with Kacey Musgraves, who was one of the big winners on the night, bringing home the trophy for Female Vocalist of the Year. Kacey had always dreamed of singing “Rainbow Connection” with her fellow Texan—the song made famous by the banjo-playing Kermit the Frog. And Kacey got her opportunity Wednesday night (11-13) in front of a national audience.
However it was fair to say that happiness and appreciation for Willie Nelson’s presence on the usually contemporary-minded and pop-oriented CMA Awards turned to concern when Willie Nelson started attempting to sing, and was clearly struggling for breath. Fans of Willie who have seen him perform lately know that he can sometimes be a little breathy, which at 86-years-old, is completely understandable. But his struggles Wednesday night seemed especially concerning.
The truth is Willie Nelson has been struggling with his breathing issues for years, and at times it has resulted in some cancellations of shows around prolonged illnesses. In August, he had to postpone the final six shows of a tour with Alison Krauss due to breathing concerns. But then the news was that he’d recovered and was “doing great.” Willie resumed touring in September, and generally speaking, his performances have been fine, and there hasn’t been any widespread concerns or complaints beyond the obvious observations that he’s not as strong as he once was.
In 2015, Willie Nelson had a stem cell procedure for his lungs to help with his breathing issues, saying at the time, “Over the years I’ve smoked a lot of cigarettes, and I’ve had emphysema and pneumonia four or five times, so my lungs were really screwed up, and I had heard that this stem-cell operation would be good for them. So I said, ‘Well, I’m gonna try it out.’”
Part of what could be behind Willie’s struggles on the CMA Awards was that he normally doesn’t sing “Rainbow Connection.” Those who’ve seen Willie recently will tell you his set list is pretty regular, and this helps him know when to breathe, and how to sing the songs in his standard set list with his limited lung capacity.
Nonetheless, Willie Nelson’s mere presence on the CMA stage made you appreciate what a gift it is that we continue to get to share this mortal coil with not just a legend of country music, but someone recognized and revered around the world as a man of peace and wisdom. That’s also what causes an outpouring of love and concern for the 86-year-old when you see him struggle. Willie Nelson has said before that he wants to die on stage, and regardless of how breathy he may be, or how much he battles with his breathing issues, it appears nothing will keep him off the stage.
Watching Willie Nelson on the CMA Awards Wednesday night should not be a reason for folks to give pause or postpone their plans to see Willie Nelson live, especially if you’ve never seen him before. It’s underscores why you should not let that opportunity pass you by, whether it’s the first time, or the last time you will see him. Because this is Willie Nelson, and when he’s gone, the world will be an entirely different place, in country music and beyond. He won’t live forever, but he’s living right now, and future generations will look back with envy at the people who got to share the planet with Willie Nelson, and see him perform.
Ronnie Van Zant
November 13, 2019 @ 11:01 pm
Don’t get me wrong, it would be horrifying if he actually died on stage one day. But imagine how fitting it would honestly be for someone like Willie Nelson to go out that way. The dude is such a legend.
Fat Freddy's Cat
November 14, 2019 @ 6:36 am
I get what you’re saying. I suspect that’s kinda how he’d like to go; not necessarily dying right on stage and horrifying the audience, but finishing a show and then quietly passing backstage or in the tour bus. Basically, I figure he hopes to die on the road rather than in a hospital.
TilBillyHill
November 14, 2019 @ 10:03 pm
That happened to a jam band artist, Col Bruce Hampton, playing a show on his own birthday at the Fox in Atlanta. People thought it was a joke, at first. A friend from high school is a major music fan in general and was a big fan of Hampton – to the extent that he had flown to ATL from NY to attend the concert with friends from when he lived in Georgia.
https://variety.com/2017/music/news/col-bruce-hampton-dead-dies-on-stage-jamband-1202406712/
My own weird experience was that I was walking through a cold, gravel parking lot leaving a Willie Nelson song when I was surprised to hear fellow concertgoers singing a Whitney Houston song. When we reached the car, I checked my phone a and that’s how I learned of Whitney Houston’s death. A Willie Nelson concert in Hiawasee, Ga.
Dale T Wilbanks
November 15, 2019 @ 11:11 am
We Love You Willie, thank you for being a role model for so many of us. You have brought us much joy and touched so many lives with your music and kindness. We Love You!
Rich
November 16, 2019 @ 11:15 am
The ol’ Country Dick Montana move.
sweet on stuart
November 17, 2019 @ 4:12 pm
Bing Crosby died on the golf course so people do get their wish sometimes. Gotta pray/hope for Willie these days.
Netmouse
December 4, 2019 @ 7:47 pm
His lungs are shot. He has severe COPD.
Lefty Throckmorton
November 13, 2019 @ 11:04 pm
This breath problem sounds similar to what Paul McCartney’s going through, and which a lot of people (but not the author of this article) are in denial of:
https://nowtoronto.com/music/paul-mccartney-please-stop/
ARIEL GURION
November 13, 2019 @ 11:42 pm
I have known Willie for over 25 years, he is a golfer, does martial arts, and is funny, sarcastic as well as a humble man. Willie in spite of his health problems is virtually unstoppable for Willie taking to the rocking chair is tantamount to death itself. He is also kept young as can be expected at his age, by Lukas and Paula among his offspring’s.
I think as will be born out, Willie will have to stick to his sets wherein he knows his breathing will not be an issue as it was at the CMA Awards. Willie is a testimony to the older the violin the sweeter the music..that is Willie, looking at others in the performing arts you have Clint Eastwood, Loretta Lynn and Maui mate, Kris kristofferson. Anybody that tells you it isn;t a struggle when up in mortal years to operate on a grovelling schedule with enormous obligations and people who rely on you being there to entertain, is just a little more than off base.
I suspect that Annie, Willie’s wife tries her best to slow Willie down just a bit, yet she knows that Willie his music and Trigger lol….keep this legend going. Everybody wants the Red Headed Stranger to be like to DO DA man just keep truckin;.
Shelley
November 14, 2019 @ 12:21 am
So beautifully written. Willie is a legend beyond all country music legends. I have had the privilege of seeing him perform many times. He is truly like no other. The world will not be the same without him. Thank God his music will be available to all forever. I am so glad that he continues to do what he loves. God Bless Willie.
Luckyoldsun
November 14, 2019 @ 12:43 am
Enough, already.
Willie should retire.
I doubt that it’s his choice to keep going out on stage.
Seems to me that the people around him are pushing him out there.
Matt F.
November 14, 2019 @ 2:14 am
Is there any evidence of that, or is it pure speculation on your part?
hoptowntiger94
November 14, 2019 @ 6:54 am
Bad comment.
No one is pushing Willie to do anything. He has good nights, he has bad nights; it’s expected at 86. He knows nothing but the stage and no one should take that away from him.
He’s a living legend (not too many of them around anymore) and if some kid gets to experience him live in concert for the first time (even for 45 minutes) and gets the bug, aren’t we leaving behind a better musical world? He has earned the right to go out on his own terms and influence and inspire as many people that will still listen.
Williefan
November 14, 2019 @ 5:48 pm
You obviously don’t know anything about Willie.
Red Cloud
November 14, 2019 @ 10:19 pm
Maybe he doesn’t want to sit at home and rot all day just waiting for his time to come? Maybe he wants to die doing what he loves. He deserves that much.
Jeanne Rowell
November 14, 2019 @ 1:03 am
I was honored to see Willie on the stage tonight and hear him sing at 86 yo! I absolutely loved how Kacey sang, “It’s going to be alright” at the end. It was like she was reassuring Willie. I was in tears. I saw Willie a few years back .. I have that experience, I have a piece of Willie in my heart to always remember!!
Willie Nelson, We love you!! Thank you for singing tonight!! Thank you for the memory!! You are amazing!!
AndyR
November 22, 2019 @ 6:10 pm
Jeanne, did you notice that after Kacey sang that line that Willie clearly said “Beautiful”, which it was. I only saw the show tonight in the UK and had to come online to find out more as I was concerned for Willie.
My thoughts and prayers are with him.
Mike
November 14, 2019 @ 4:34 am
You really think Willie takes orders from anyone? lol
Oyster Boy
November 14, 2019 @ 5:04 am
I have tickets to see Willie this Saturday night in Lake Charles, LA. Although the peak of his live performances is perhaps decades in the past, I wanted to see him just one more time. I was too young to see him prior to the late 80’s and the best for me was the tour shortly after the release of the ‘Spirit’ album in the mid nineties. I always thought he might slow down and just play regular shows out at Luck but he hasn’t yet.
Carl Savage
November 14, 2019 @ 5:44 am
I seen willie 117 times never a bad show. Some better then ever. In his hay day. 2 and a half hour shows got his autograph tat on my head. His portrait on my arm. Keep going willie. Better to die. On the road again. Then in a death bed🎸👍🍻
Steve S .H.
November 14, 2019 @ 2:57 pm
@Carl Savage
I, as I’m sure many other people do, love Willie, but you’re without a doubt a mental case… What a creepy F***er!!! Sounds like some deranged obsession! 117 times???? Got two tats of him???? One on your HEAD????? What a weird and again, CREEPY F***er!
Luckyoldsun
November 14, 2019 @ 7:15 pm
@steve–Either that or @Carl S. made most of that up. I’ll go with the latter.
Wesley Gray
November 14, 2019 @ 7:48 pm
lol
Carl Savage
November 15, 2019 @ 5:48 am
As a Christain I dont lie . Ask willie or his daughter. Your another hate person. Seen Paula Nelson in concert 6 times. She rocks
Steve S. H.
November 28, 2019 @ 1:17 am
“As a Christian I don’t lie” I corrected your spelling of Christian for you.
You call yourself a Christian, but yet you threaten to knock me on the ground????????????????? rofl.
Karen Adamski
November 16, 2019 @ 1:38 pm
Why is he mental case cause he has seen Wille 117 times, I’ve seen him 60 time in 6 years.
Steve S. H.
November 28, 2019 @ 1:04 am
Why is he a mental case? The same reason why you’re a mental case for seeing him 60 times in 6 years. That’s abnormal. In fact… Extreeeeeemely abnormal.
I think AC/DC is the greatest rock band of all time, and have loved them ever since I was a kid. I have all their music. I play guitar and can play many of their songs. I discuss them and brag about them all the time…………………………. I’ve seen them twice in concert!
I am a Merle Haggard SUPER FAN. I think hes the greatest vocalist, and greatest songwriter of all time……. By Farrrrr. I play and sing almost every one of his songs. I talk and brag him up all the time. Show his music to people every chance I get……………………………………………………….. I’ve seen him in concert once.
It takes some sort of mental issue to see someone 117 times in concert, and then get two tattoos of them.. Especially when one of those tattoos is on you FACE! Let me say that again ON YOUR FACE! There’s nothing sane about that.
Carl s
November 18, 2019 @ 1:18 pm
Steve S ur a coward for calling me a liar easy to do them u post or text of u were in my face 3 seconds after u would be on ur back. But ur a coward not from Texas I see
Trigger
November 18, 2019 @ 1:38 pm
Final comment on this thread. This isn’t a schoolyard. It’s an article about Willie Nelson’s health. Have some respect.
Steve S. H.
November 28, 2019 @ 1:10 am
Sorry… You don’t get the last word, and won’t….!
Steve S. H.
November 28, 2019 @ 1:07 am
I never called you a liar, I just said you were mentally ill. On the contrary, I don’t think you’re a liar. I believe every word you said. That’s the reason why I think you’re crazy.
Steve S. H.
November 28, 2019 @ 1:14 am
Also, regarding me being on my back if I got in your face rofl. That’s comical Not only would you not have a chance against me, you’ve never even met anyone who could kick my ass. In fact, I doubt you’ve ever seen anyone on TV who could kick my ass. That’s enough of your fantasy… Let’s talk reality.
Steve S. H.
November 28, 2019 @ 1:35 am
Also, I forgot to add… I’ve been all over the United States, and I’ve been all over texas, and texas is about the most shitty, worthless state I’ve ever been to. If you want to see some real country, go visit Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Montana, or Alaska. There you’ll see some real country. They’re actually thinking about dividing Alaska into two states. That would make texas the third largest state in the U.S.
Connie Baldwin
November 19, 2019 @ 5:20 am
Seriously, putting someone down for being a fan? Get a life. I have been a fan of Willie’s for over 45 years and have seen him numerous times myself. He is a legend and although I don’t know him personally, he appears to be a nice, quiet gentleman and worthy of more credit than you give him. Show some respect for someone who has been around and entertained people for over half a century and why should you care what someone does with their free time and money? Sad that some people are such haters.
Steve S .H.
November 28, 2019 @ 1:27 am
I didn’t put him down for being a fan… I’m a Huuuuuge fan of Willies too. Carl is not just fan, he’s a lunatic. Seeing someone’s show 117 times is stocker like in nature. And getting their tattoo is crazy. Getting a tattoo of them on your face lunatic behavior. Now I could see a young immature child doing something like this if they didn’t have proper parent guidance, but for an adult??? Come on! And what do you mean by telling me he’s a legend, nice and gentle, and worthy of more respect than I show him???? I never said anything negative about Willie. I love Willie, and am probably more of a fan of his than either you or Carl… I’m just not nuts. Whatever gave you the idea that I didn’t respect Willie?
Bob
December 20, 2019 @ 2:55 pm
STFU!!!
Belinda smith
November 14, 2019 @ 6:18 am
Breathing isnt easy for all of us because the Gov. Sprays poision in the sky Prayers Willie love you much
Lefty Throckmorton
November 16, 2019 @ 9:58 pm
The chemtrail bullshit you just spewed has nothing to do with Willie’s health problems. Please learn about real science before you speak again.
Liz
November 14, 2019 @ 6:32 am
Why that sappy song, and not one of Willie’s classics? It was a very disappointing segment of an otherwise great show!
Karl B
November 14, 2019 @ 9:34 am
Kacey was there, nominated for her song “Rainbow”. Willie’s “Rainbow Connection” album was a hit and nominated for a CMA in 2001, so it was a literal “rainbow connection” across generations.
liza
November 14, 2019 @ 11:49 am
It was the best performance of the night. Beautifully done and touching.
Kross
November 14, 2019 @ 6:41 am
I remember seeing Willie Nelson over 20 years ago in Augusta Georgia thinking I better catch him now, because he won’t live much longer. I didn’t know how wrong I was.
hoptowntiger94
November 14, 2019 @ 6:47 am
Wasn’t it cold in Nashville last night? I got school closing texts for Hopkinsville, KY (about an hour north). When it’s damp or cold is when it seems Willie really struggles. He’s been his best lately when it’s hot (4th July Picnics) and he hits the stage on his own terms and well toked.
Not a Musgraves fan, but appreciate how gracious she handled the situation.
HankThrilliams
November 14, 2019 @ 6:56 am
He should stop smoking dope at this point, his lungs probably look like raisins. The world needs Willie Nelson
Carrie
November 14, 2019 @ 7:00 am
To the author of this article; it’s beautifully written giving respect and honor. Bravo. I stayed up last night specifically for this performance and cried through it… It was beautiful! Pairing Musgrave and Nelson was a brilliant idea (I realize it was her dream <3 ). His unique, rustic voice paired with the sweetness of hers… That was a performance I hope to never forget.
Willie did a great job at 86. His voice is still there. He hit those notes like only Willie Nelson can.
Keep singing Willie, we're looking forward to you, every time…
Be blessed
Steve S .H.
November 14, 2019 @ 3:36 pm
@Carrie
I’m a mega Willie Nelson fan, but… Are you serious? I think you’re letting your emotions and fanaticism win out over logic and fact here. His voice is still there??? It literally speaking, actually was NOT there… That was the problem. When he attempted to sing, instead of it being “voice”, it was almost entirely and purely breath, with his vocal chords hardly even actually working at all.
Girl from Austin, Texas
November 18, 2019 @ 12:10 pm
You are clearly not a mega Willie fan.
Level Up Chuck
November 14, 2019 @ 7:14 am
I blame trigger
His guitar is cursed .. more like possessed
Forcing it’s unwitting owner to perform until trigger is satisfied
Trigger is driving the boat
Get a new guitar guitar Willie!!!
TilBillyHill
November 15, 2019 @ 12:16 pm
He has said that when/if Trigger goes, he’ll probably retire. I’m in no hurry for either to happen. I’ve attended several of his shows, most recently, a 3/2016 appearance at a star-studded tribute to the life and music of Kris Kristofferson. Every performance has been well worth the time and money. He’s always gracious and takes time to sign autographs for the audience at the end of the show.
Farm aid
November 14, 2019 @ 7:22 am
Hello,,I saw willie at the Gene Autry museum fund raiser a few months ago and he put on a great show along with his sons.
At 86 I’d say I only hope I’m able to keep up the muse,some days better than other,the point is he I willing and every show is Live just like willie is alive,,Sounds like he gave it his best last night and thats all you can ask,and many people appreciate that,and if he only tried to do the old standards might be a bit boring for us and him,I applaud him for continuing to try new material with new partners in crime,Kasey way to go,you to trying new things stepping out of the comfort zone,very vulnerable and real,,good show bad show the show must go on and you proved why people go to see Live music Live..God bless.truly..jk
Andrew
November 14, 2019 @ 8:15 am
I was at that last show Willie did in August before the postponements and he was not very good. He’s had one of the most incredible careers in music history, but it certainly seems his age has finally caught up with him.
TXMUSICJIM
November 14, 2019 @ 8:25 am
Willie Nelson can do whatever in the hell he wants! If Willie can and wants to keep touring and performing he will. God bless you Willie!
Harpo
November 14, 2019 @ 11:52 am
Amen!
Steve S .H.
November 14, 2019 @ 3:42 pm
@TXMUSICJIM
Who said he “CAN’T”???
Linda
November 14, 2019 @ 9:55 pm
I agree he should keep touring if that makes him happy, I just wish he was sitting on a stool. He’s 86 and struggles to breath. It was not wise to have him standing for a prolong time and then singing. He should have been sitting and we (Willie supporters) would have still enjoyed his performance.
The Dot
November 14, 2019 @ 8:27 am
Rainbow Connection is a difficult song to sing anyway. It goes high low high low. Great for a frog in a movie, not great for a legend. Not sure why he couldn’t have done one of his hits that he’s comfortable with and not a song picked by or for Kacey.
Cool story about Willie in the badass days. My grandmother ran a local bowling alley and booked Willie and his band one time. They showed up drunk. Grandmom wasn’t about to let the drunks on the stage and refused to let them go on or pay them. Willie sued. Grandmom lost. To her dying day, she hated hearing his name. So, we’d sing her Willie songs just to piss her off. Good times.
TilBillyHill
November 14, 2019 @ 9:49 pm
Ha ha – that’s a cool family heirloom of a story.
Wait – was your grandmother from Buffalo, New York? That might explain that whole “Me and Paul” thing.
The Dot
November 16, 2019 @ 10:54 am
Nope, central New Jersey. Grandma was a hardcore woman no one ever wanted to cross. And Willie got the best of her. I remember when Honeysuckle Rose came out. She was so annoyed his career had a resurgence. Good times. 🙂 We’d walk around singing “On the Road Again” and she’d be yelling at us to shut up.
TilBillyHill
November 14, 2019 @ 9:55 pm
Also – great points about the song! (And the weather).
I’d add the fact that he was singing it as a duet with someone whose childhood dream had been to sing that song with him. So, he likely was working to stick to the song’s usual timing of lyrics and to stick with her. In concert, he almost never follows the phrasing of the album versions of his own songs.
(Sheryl Crow made a comment along the lines that you can’t really sing WITH him, but sometimes sing louder.)
cbcb23
November 17, 2019 @ 8:14 pm
Willie actually did a great version of Rainbow Connection back in 2001.
https://youtu.be/hS23wm99YY4
Keytha Piper Cooper
November 14, 2019 @ 8:34 am
Kacey Musgraves and Willie….she really sang very softly and slowly, giving him time to get his wind, and respectful as to not sing over him. It was definitely a touching moment. They are both advocates of marijuana, so there is a kindred spirit there. Although very poignant and sad, it was a high light to me. Willie has preserved over many catastrophes. It was good also, but sad, to see the failing Loretta Lynn. We over the over 50 crowd are slowly losing our icons.
Ray
November 14, 2019 @ 8:44 am
I am a huge fan of Willie Nelson, dating back to the late 1970s. I saw in Nashville a few years ago and it seemed he was no longer singing, simply talking the words. It was still amazing to see someone again that is so iconic. But, after seeing him last night, I do not want to see him take anything away from his legend by staying at the party too long. I said the same thing a few years ago when I saw Kenny Rogers. The performance was so “lacking,” it made me forget for a time how great he was back in his heyday. Don’t get me wrong, I love the legends more than anyone, but, I know how negative people are on the Internet and not realizing he is in his in his mid-80s.
Colter
November 14, 2019 @ 9:05 am
I have tickets to see him this Saturday in Lake Charles and couldn’t find anyone to go with me because they didn’t want to listen to an old man sing. It’ll probably be my only opportunity to see him live and i cant wait
Oyster Boy
November 14, 2019 @ 9:40 am
I’ll be at that show as well. Couldn’t pass up the chance to see him one last time.
Donald J Hopson
November 14, 2019 @ 9:07 am
A moment in time we’ll remember forever … Willie has never stepped aside from anything that was hard to do … I think it’s absolutely amazing that he sings on that stage in the town that told him to stick to writing, singing wasn’t his best thing to do … Typical Willie Nelson
TEXASGAL
November 14, 2019 @ 9:22 am
First of all…. I loved his article…very well written.
I have seen Willie several times in concert. I was lucky enough to meet Willie back stage at one of his concerts in the 80’s. My boyfriend was part of his security. I was so starstruck. I remember how nice he was, and how he smiled during the entire conversation. I was a little sad to see him struggle on stage at the CMA’s… but super glad this legend of a man is still doing his thing. LOVE YOU WILLIE!
Martha Sue Taylor
November 14, 2019 @ 9:43 am
Willie Nelson is an icon & fantastic singer! Never saw him in person but love his music! He gives his all when performing. I saw him on the awards last night. He was a bit raspy like he wasn’t feeling his best but was great to see & hear him sing. I know at 86 yrs old it can’t be easy to keep performing. I doubt that I would. Willie just keep performing if you choose! You will always be a hit!
Cherie A Munster
November 14, 2019 @ 10:55 am
Let it ride! He’s sitting in Limbo! Was that trigger on stage with him or was that the understudy? Trust me .. If something was to happen during one of his shows, the band has the plan on how to handle the situation.
From what I understand.. His wish is to continue.. to keep on moving on..
~ He gave us so much. Let’s give back with respect.
~We are blessed to have his foot prints of notes in our life forever.~ Cherie Munster, Covington,Louisiana
Paula
November 14, 2019 @ 11:13 am
Allan Toussaint died at the hotel after giving his last performance. I read that some country star of the past, maybe Ernest Tubb?, died on his bus between shows. I suspect that cutting it this close wouldn’t bother Willie a bit.
thebugman10
November 14, 2019 @ 12:29 pm
I’m glad I got to see Willie a few years ago, just a month or two after Merle passed. Willie and Hank Jr are the only “Legends” I’ve been able to see play live. Never saw Merle. Guys like Johnny Cash and Waylon Jennings passed before I was really old enough to go to shows like that (or interested in for that matter).
Luckyoldsun
November 15, 2019 @ 1:25 am
@bugman–I’ve never seen Hank Jr. live, but I’ve seen all the other ones you mention. Plus Jones and Billie Joe with Eddy. The one I still hope to see is Dolly. The one I kick myself for missing is Guy Clark.
Brian S
November 14, 2019 @ 12:43 pm
I saw Willie live in concert a few years ago. The man is simply amazing!
Adam
November 14, 2019 @ 12:44 pm
He’s been terrible live for years, nobody should be freaking out and more than of was any other 86 year old.
Inge Barker
November 16, 2019 @ 9:22 am
I flew from Barcelona to see him at forest hills in New York. He was totally amazing. He gives his all and is a total star. He has an unparalleled talent and is an all round superstar.
Girl for Austin, Texas
November 14, 2019 @ 1:36 pm
To all the ignorant trolls saying he’s terrible live or should retire, note that almost all of his shows, including Farm Aid, are SOLD OUT. Also, I suspect these trolls ain’t from Texas and don’t know a hill of beans what they’re talking about. He still sounds great, even if it’s not peak 45 yo Willie. Learn some appreciation and respect. He recorded Rainbow Connection at the request of his daughter, Paula, and it received a Grammy nomination for album of the year, so it was a reasonable song choice on top of being Kacey’s request for her big night. Did you see at the end where Willie said, “Perfect!”?
Steve S. H.
November 14, 2019 @ 3:23 pm
@Girl for Austin, Texas
I’m a HUGE Willie Nelson fan. I love both him and his music, but… You’re fanaticism, your emotion, and your sensitivity to other people’s comments about him, is causing you to willfully present yourself to everyone as a fool. Are you kidding me??? Not one down to earth, honest person would make a statement like that. No one truly believes that he literally sounded “GREAT” last night. Not his own kids, not his wife and not even himself , believes that he sounded “GREAT” during that performance. Every word he sang was almost entirely breath, with his vocal chords hardly even working at all. Again, I love Willie, but by NO standard did he sound “GREAT” last night.
Girl from Austin, Texas
November 15, 2019 @ 12:47 pm
haha I knew one of ya would come after me. Yes I am a proud fan. At least my emotions are positive instead of hateful. Do you know how hard it is to project your voice into a microphone, let alone sing, let alone while struggling to breathe, all on TV? What a soldier and showman, making Kacey’s dream come true. I have a respect for his and others’ lifetime artistry that transcends these superficial criticisms that I honestly can’t believe anyone can make of a man still performing for his fans, despite the difficulties and limitations due to his age and condition. It’s what he loves, and we love him for it and are grateful to him and the chances to still see him perform.
Greg Green
November 18, 2019 @ 6:54 am
That you can’t tell the difference between good singing and breathy struggling is part of the reason there’s so little good music these days. Willie is a true legend but he clearly was struggling there. Kacy seemed to be genuinely worried while singing. And should’ve been.
Girl from Austin, Texas
November 18, 2019 @ 10:55 am
I just acknowledged he was struggling, but the difference is I still see beauty in it… instead I draw yet another insult, from someone that doesn’t know me, and certainly doesn’t understand Willie. Keep to your bro country, Greg Green, bet that all sounds guuuud to your standards of performance.
Carl Savage
November 15, 2019 @ 6:29 am
Amen to you Texas lady. Steve’s a troll alright sounds like a bum that dont work. I’m 53 and heard willie song on the road again on a rock station when it came out. Then Always on my mind. Then I was hooked. I been in 47 states. Seen willie 3 to 4 times a year. Add that up Steve how many concerts????? Can you add Hatefull Steve. The lovely Dandy that past used to run willie fan club would let me know were he was playing and yes she would give me tickets hear and there. Most of my vacations were a willie Merle. Hank jr concert. Jonny. Waylon. Kris. Charlie daniels. Ect. Guess you could say I love music. Look up Washington post . 2016 article about willie me house of blues. STEVES a hatefull bum. Hopefully u find Jesus befor it’s to late End times are now.
Roadrunner
November 19, 2019 @ 12:20 pm
Thank you for saying that…I do believe that nobody forces Willie Nelson to do anything! He does what he wants to do. So if he wants to sing and perform…He’ll do it…And if he feels he’s not up to par, he won’t!
God Bless him..I hope he sings for another decade. Hail to you Willie Nelson!! You know we love you.
Carl Savage
November 14, 2019 @ 3:59 pm
Alot of hate in this world like you. Willie dont think I’m creepy. His daughters dont think I’m creepy Paula and Amy. And most of all Jesus Christ my lord and Saviour. Dont think I’m creepy. I also seen Merle Haggard 37 times. Got his portrait on me too. Your the first . Hate full person that ever made a comment like this. And why use bad language???
Girl from Austin, Texas
November 18, 2019 @ 12:14 pm
I agree with you. The mental cases are the haters on here.
Mary is
November 14, 2019 @ 5:02 pm
God Bless you Willie
The Doctor
November 14, 2019 @ 5:22 pm
woke up still not dead again today
Gmoney
November 14, 2019 @ 8:11 pm
sounded Great to me. a true pro
Pat Chaffin
November 14, 2019 @ 10:27 pm
Love Willie, no matter what, in his drinking days he peed on my couch, and I still love him!!
William Rowland
November 15, 2019 @ 3:33 am
If Willie’s having trouble breathing he might try making Cannabis Tea, instead of smoking.
wocowboy
November 15, 2019 @ 5:00 am
That was really hard to watch. I saw Willie years ago and relish the experience, but he was really struggling to breathe at all last night, let alone sing. His wild shoulder movements, trying to get some air into his lungs any way possible, and pretty much all he could manage to do was muster the strength to sing the last line of the chorus pretty well.
Corncaster
November 15, 2019 @ 6:49 am
Those videos of Willie in his studio cutting songs are pure gold.
Charlie Brown
November 15, 2019 @ 8:46 am
Willie has always been my hero,my opinion is one of the greatest artists ever.As for me,i’ll miss him dearly when the time comes for him to go home.You are truly a legend in my mind that can never be replaced by any other,you are truly blessed by God,Willie, a one of a kind that no other can ever replaced,you will greatly be missed when it comes your time to go home,i’ll forever regret that i never had the opportunity to have met you personally..to have not been had the opportunity and pleasure to hang out with you,i heard that you will be the headliner at this coming year in march at the Outlaw and Legends here in my home town and i will be there to finally see a Great and true Legend for the first time,i hope to be able blessed to get your autograph on my guitar.
Bodyblue
November 15, 2019 @ 12:15 pm
My wife and were stunned at his condition. They asked him to sing that dumb song? If you are going to kill him on stage at least let him sing one of his songs.
dukeroberts
November 15, 2019 @ 1:24 pm
Smoking cigarettes and pot are really bad for your lungs. Any lung issues he would have would be exacerbated by both activities. Pot is especially prohibitive in recovering from pneumonia. Aside from that, he has done remarkably well keeping mostly healthy up to his 86 years.
LindaV
November 15, 2019 @ 3:02 pm
It hurt my soul just a little to see him like that though. He seemed a little lost. He definitely is a legend.
John W Allen
November 15, 2019 @ 4:20 pm
I saw Willie in the ’60’s with his Porter Waggoner shiny suit and slicked back hair and the “silver bus”, went to the first Willie 4th of July picnic at Arrowhead Stadium in KC, MO. AND 8 OR 10 times since in various locations. He is the best there ever was, the best there ever will be and we should let Willie decide when and when not to perform.
Bodyblue
November 15, 2019 @ 5:10 pm
He looked death warmed over.
David Horton
November 15, 2019 @ 5:10 pm
I know for fact artists like Willie r invigorating happy when performing. Some have tried the retire thing but after certain length time go back on road. It keeps them young. And whether u aware happiness heals. Best medicine and ever. I seriously doubt anybody pushing Mr. Nelson to hit road n perform.May GOD bless Mr. Willie Nelson..Happiness to Willie n Family.
David Horton
Eugene,Oregon
Bodyblue
November 15, 2019 @ 6:09 pm
Hopefully he is smart enough to quit smoking his weed. I hope he just does the edibles if he must get stoned.
Dr. Herb Roller
November 15, 2019 @ 7:59 pm
I’m Willie Nelson’s physician. In regard to my patient’s shortness of breath, I can say one thing for certain: Willie does indeed have bad breath and has had it for decades. When he’s down to having no breath at all, y’all will be the first to know.
Cheryl Kirchner
November 16, 2019 @ 5:16 pm
Take good care of that man. I never felt as proud of Willie as I did watching that performance. Who among us can say that we would have the guts to do the same? What an absolute legend he is. Much love, Willie.
Diane Bashline
November 15, 2019 @ 9:15 pm
I saw Willie live on my 21st birthday. I was a huge fan then and still am. I saw him again two weeks ago in Nevada. I’m 67 now so I have been a die hard fan for awhile now. I will continue to see him every chance I get. I love you Willie. Please come back to Ironstone Vineyards in California this summer. Stay well and ride them back home.
brian_M
November 15, 2019 @ 9:43 pm
It really looked like he was having a panic attack to me. You smoke the wrong kind of weed and that can happen…it’s happened to me. But what do I know.
Deb
November 16, 2019 @ 10:29 am
We love you, Willy and we are praying for you. Love your sons, too. Promise of the Real is absolutely amazing, just amazing.
Deb
November 16, 2019 @ 10:38 am
Love and adore Willy, and his sons, WOW, what talent! Lukas is amazing. On another note, so disappointed to find that Kacey Musgraves isn’t who I thought she was. In fact, she’s the opposite. Showing up with model, Hadid (don’t know the sisters apart) prompted me to read about her. I had liked her but am turned off. I guess you have to be very very pushy, maybe you have to be sarcastic, I don’t know, to make it in the business. Wish her well and we do grow up.
victoria impavido
November 16, 2019 @ 1:45 pm
I cried a little when saw Willie struggling at the CMA awards. I love him (except for his pot smoking) He’s the greatest.
Truth5
November 16, 2019 @ 7:09 pm
Who am I to say what folks should do when they are still making money? But in terms of vocal performance, Truth is Jones should have stepped away a good 7-8 years before he died. Hag should have stepped away a good 2 years before he died. Willie never had the vocal talent of those two even in his prime, so he can get away with being a little breathy at times, but he is struggling. I guess if it makes him happy and people are still showing up…
Girl from Austin, Texas
November 18, 2019 @ 11:03 am
I saw the Hag 4 times in the 2 years before he died. Jones too toward the end, reading off a teleprompter. I thought they were still excellent and I felt honored to get to listen. Guess you think anyone who’s no longer at their peak should be put out to pasture and shot? How wrong you are and how much you’re missing. Just don’t go to the shows if you think they are has beens instead of making nasty public comments about legendary performers. I thought this site was supposed to be about honoring real old school country music, not tacky troll haters putting them down.
truth5
November 18, 2019 @ 11:52 am
Shut the hell up. I’m the biggest Jones and Haggard fan you’ll ever meet and saw them both multiple times in the final years they were touring, and have met Jones. Reality is Jones voice started slipping around 2000-2001, but he was still strong enough to tour until about 2006-2007. Those last 4-5 years, he should not have been out on the road. He was trying to make money for his family. When he has to pull up a chair and is struggling to get his breath and reading off a teleprompter, that isn’t good. Hag voice was still fairly strong, except for the final 2 years. Both of these guys toured right until the very end. Jones went from playing a show to going in the hospital the next day, where he stayed until he died. That isn’t good professionally for the persons legacy or the persons health. Especially when both of these guys have set their families up for years financially, they shouldn’t have been on the road for days up until their death. Thats my personal opinion, you are free to have yours.
Girl from Austin, Texas
November 18, 2019 @ 12:09 pm
hahahahahaha I actually knew all of these guys personally, including Willie since ’93 living in Austin, and still hanging with him. Y’all just don’t know what you’re talking about because you don’t know them and how much they love to perform. Ain’t for the money, honey. Fortunately, there are plenty of us with the personal opinion that they are still good enough. Paula Nelson had the best “FU” to these types of comments when she posted a backstage video of her dad the other night tearing it up on stage. Amazing how much people like you are willing to opine on things they know nothing about. But that’s our culture these days!
Richard Lake
November 17, 2019 @ 5:12 pm
I first met willie through daffy and dandelion. When he was in Bloomsburg and Kempton PA. I had back stage passes each time. Willie is a humble person sarcasm but most of all a Humanitarian And Animal right’s activist. I often question myself for leaving his sister Bobbie offer to join the road crew back in the mid 90s. I still have the memories and the photos with him. Awesome talented and his children have great talent as well.
Carl Savage
November 18, 2019 @ 2:12 pm
Dont call some one a lier then
Kountry Joe
November 18, 2019 @ 2:23 pm
“Over the years I’ve smoked a lot of cigarettes…”
Yeah, cigarettes caused this. Is he trying to convince us or himself? Smoke weed if you want, but admit that ANYTHING you suck into your lungs besides air causes damage.
Troy Leong
November 23, 2019 @ 12:19 pm
I’ve always loved Willie Nelson. He’s a true American treasure for sure. If he can still get on a bus and out there to perform….he should be allowed too. The only thing I am against…..is for any performer getting up there in excruciating pain. It’s not fair to them. This is what happened to Tammy Wynette. Her husband knew how sick she was…..and kept pushing her. She loved performing too….but when you have to unplug from oxygen, i.v. pain meds and i.v. nourishment to go out and do a show……you really should be at home. That’s torture for the artist….not living. Ohhhhh one last thing. The week before Tammy died her husband was trying to book her on a concert tour with Kenny Rogers in Australia!!!!!! Was that fair…….I THINK NOT!!!!!!!!!
Rob T
November 26, 2019 @ 7:44 am
Willie Nelson is musical… simple statement but that, his musicality is what sets him apart. He doesn’t need to limit his genre. He picks musical people… the late Bee Spears (much underrated), the great Mickey Raphael, the late Jody Payne, sister Bobbie, Paul and Billy English.
Anyone musical would jump at the chance to play alongside and/or just listen to, Will. He was the standout artist in The Highwaymen and had the tones and timing, singing and guitar-playing. Right now is the time to revere a real musician who crossed genres because he had that musicality.
Thank goodness there are videos and records of him.
Rob….
D. Ames
December 14, 2019 @ 5:44 pm
Steve S.H. Methinks you doth protest too much. Perhaps you are the one with mental health issues. Just sayin’.