In an all-star Nashville tribute, country superstar Willie Nelson was honored on Saturday night, January 12, 2019, featuring a guest list any fan would swoon over. The event, which was taped for television viewing at a later date, produced some epic moments, as one would guess. But the moment that will truly amaze fans when seeing the TV version is the first-ever duet by Willie and George Strait.
Having sung with so many superstars throughout the years, you would almost think, “Nah – they had to have performed together at least once before, somewhere.” But, no. Their pairing is a country music oversight that was corrected just this past weekend with the song aptly titled, “Sing One With Willie.”
Photo: Facebook/Casino Nanaimo
The event assembled an amazing cast, all gathered to honor the 85-year-old pioneer in outlaw country music. Having established a base in the Texas Hill Country, Nelson’s career has spanned a number of decades, producing hits over several genres, not to mention television and movie success. Strait himself, who hails from the state of Texas (and proudly so), has also carved a niche in country music that has led him to carry the title of King from his adoring throngs of fans as well as many of his counterparts of the industry.
Photo: Facebook/Willie Nelson
The song for their duet was written specifically for the Tennessee tribute event. Media reps that attended the taping reported Strait saying to Nelson, “You just made my career,” to which Nelson retorted, “Or ruined it.” Over two dozen artists came together to honor Nelson through recreations of songs from his own catalog, many of which were given room to breathe as the tribute to his music was designed in the fashion of the singer himself – unique. Featuring Chris Stapleton, Kris Kristofferson, Lee Ann Womack, Jamey Johnson, and Vince Gill, among others, the show titled, “Willie: Life & Songs Of An American Outlaw,” will air on A&E at a future date.
