There’s a reason there’s a saying that goes “if it’s not broken don’t fix it”. Willie Nelson is a cornerstone of that sentiment, as he’s now a man who’s been putting out albums since the 1950’s and has yet to really deviate from how he’s doing it. Why would he? He’s still putting up the numbers, touring, and singing as though he’s in his prime. He also has a huge fan base in a younger generation, and they only know most of what he’s done and/or sounded like within the last twenty years. His latest album First Rose of Spring is really no different from the usual, but most will probably find that it doesn’t actually need to be either.
First Rose of Spring is Nelson’s 70th studio album, meaning he’s almost released as many albums as his time on earth. At eighty-seven, Nelson doesn’t seem to be slowing down much either.
First Rose of Spring is Nelson’s 70th studio album, meaning he’s almost released as many albums as his time on earth. At eighty-seven, Nelson doesn’t seem to be slowing down much either. Still, there are only two original songs on the new twelve track record, with the rest of them being covers of other country music legends. What’s actually more important to note about the First Rose of Spring is its theme. At his age, the world is unsure of how much time Nelson has left, and yes, he’s playing like he himself has that understanding, but it’s not all doom and gloom either. This record is more of a realization of that, almost an acceptance, and when one has seen all he has in his time on earth, as many of his die-hard fans will have, it’s not that hard to see the forest through the trees.
Most of the covers on the album are of slower to medium pace, but there are a couple that ring a tad more upbeat, and even fun to sing along with. ‘I’ll Break Out Again Tonight’ is an enjoyable track, literally about breaking out of prison. Then there’s the classic track ‘I’m The Only Hell My Mama Ever Raised’, which depicts a life of troubled adolescence, bad choices, and hard learned life lessons. The two original tracks ‘Blue Star’ and ‘Love Just Laughed’ are softer, telling a story of love, memory, and moving onto the next life sang by a man who at this point in his life is as close to an expert on the subject as anyone can be at Nelson’s tenure.
Will Nelson keep putting music out right up to the point he passes? If he does, there’s not likely to be too many complaints. He’s a man and an artist who commands the respect of musicians and peers young and old for his passion, work ethic, and musical prowess that has been blowing up charts for decades. If he were to stop today, his music will see him living forever amongst those who knew him and for those who consider themselves fans. First Rose of Spring is streaming on Spotify and most tracks can also be found on YouTube as well, so log on and keep Willy living.
