Lifestyle

Watch Willie Nelson sing ‘Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain’ in Rare ACL Clip

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Tony Maples Photography

 

If this video of Willie Nelson singing “Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain” from 1980 proves anything, it’s that Willie’s voice hasn’t changed a bit. His voice is just as timeless and pure today as it was some 35 years ago.

“Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain” is a Willie classic. Though it wasn’t his song originally, it’s often attributed to him. The tune was written by songwriter Fred Rose and first performed by Roy Acuff in 1945. Then, in 1951, Hank Williams recorded the song for the old radio show, Mother’s Best Flour Hour.

Willie then recorded the song for his album, Red Headed Stranger, which as music fans know, is one of the most iconic albums in country music. The album featuring the classic tune was released in 1975, and served as a great jumping off point for Willie’s career. “Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain” was in fact Willie’s very first number one hit!

Fun fact about the song: It is the last known song that Elvis Presley sang at his piano before his death in 1977. Elvis recorded a rendition of it in 1976.

Dying to hear Willie’s timeless voice in person? You’re in luck! He’ll be touring all summer long and will be accompanied by Merle Haggard in select cities.