Stardust

Ich bin kein großer Countrymusik Fan. Aber ich bin ein großer Willie Nelson Fan. Und warum? Er schafft es mit leisen und zeitlosen Zwischentönen, coolen Arrangements vermischt mit anderen Musikstilen seine Musik zu zelebrieren. Und wer ihn schon mal live sehen durfte, der, die, das wird spätestens hier ein Fan. Stardust ist ein leises Meisterwerk.

"Stardust," the iconic album by Willie Nelson, released in 1978, remains a pinnacle in the country music genre and beyond. Nelson, already established as a revered figure in the industry, took a bold step with this album by deviating from his traditional country roots and delving into the timeless classics of American popular music. Here's an in-depth review, focusing on lyrics, music, production, themes, and influence, along with its pros and cons. **Lyrics:** Nelson's approach to interpreting these classic songs is nothing short of masterful. Each lyric is delivered with sincerity and a deep understanding of the emotional nuances embedded within them. From the yearning in "Georgia on My Mind" to the melancholy of "Blue Skies," Nelson captures the essence of these timeless pieces, infusing them with his own brand of heartfelt storytelling. The simplicity and universality of the lyrics allow listeners to connect on a personal level, regardless of their background or experiences. **Music:** The musical arrangements on "Stardust" are exquisitely crafted, showcasing Nelson's versatile talent as a musician and his keen ear for melody. His distinctive guitar playing serves as the perfect accompaniment to his rich, emotive vocals, creating a seamless blend of sound that is both comforting and captivating. The incorporation of jazz and blues elements adds depth and complexity to the album, elevating it beyond the confines of traditional country music and appealing to a broader audience. **Production:** Produced by Booker T. Jones, "Stardust" boasts a polished yet organic sound that perfectly complements Nelson's raw, unfiltered vocals. Jones' meticulous attention to detail is evident in every track, from the subtle instrumentation to the seamless transitions between songs. The production quality is timeless, standing the test of time and remaining as relevant today as it was upon its initial release. **Themes:** At its core, "Stardust" explores themes of love, loss, and longing, weaving together a tapestry of emotions that resonate with listeners on a deeply personal level. Whether reflecting on the passage of time in "All of Me" or seeking solace in the face of heartache in "Unchained Melody," Nelson navigates the complexities of human relationships with grace and empathy. The overarching theme of nostalgia pervades the album, transporting listeners to a bygone era and evoking a sense of wistful longing for simpler times. **Influence:** "Stardust" has had a profound influence on both the country music genre and popular music as a whole. Nelson's bold reinterpretation of these classic songs paved the way for future artists to explore new musical territories and push the boundaries of genre conventions. The album's enduring legacy is evident in its continued relevance and influence, inspiring generations of musicians to embrace their creativity and embrace the timeless appeal of Americana. **Pros:** 1. Nelson's emotive vocals breathe new life into classic songs, imbuing them with a sense of authenticity and depth. 2. The musical arrangements are beautifully crafted, blending elements of country, jazz, and blues to create a unique and captivating sound. 3. The production quality is top-notch, thanks to Booker T. Jones' expert guidance behind the scenes. 4. The album's themes of love, loss, and nostalgia resonate with listeners on a deeply emotional level, transcending the boundaries of genre and time. **Cons:** 1. Some listeners may find Nelson's departure from traditional country music jarring or unexpected. 2. The album's slow pace and contemplative mood may not appeal to those seeking more upbeat or energetic music. 3. While Nelson's interpretations are undeniably heartfelt, some purists may prefer the original versions of these classic songs. In conclusion, "Stardust" stands as a timeless masterpiece that showcases Willie Nelson's immense talent as a musician, storyteller, and interpreter of song. From its heartfelt lyrics to its exquisite musical arrangements, every aspect of the album is crafted with care and precision, resulting in a work of art that continues to captivate audiences decades after its release. Whether you're a longtime fan of Nelson's music or discovering it for the first time, "Stardust" is an essential addition to any music lover's collection.

Just great. So relaxing. Love 1001 albums for this kind of discovery.

One of the greatest albums of all time, by one of the greatest writer, singers of all time. A classic that will live on forever.

He really can do whatever he wants, legend

One of the quintessential Late Night™️ albums. Given its construct, it’s hard to tell where the term “pop standard” ends and the term “country cover” begins, but maybe that doesn’t matter much anyway. If you walk in hating country, you’ll be okay, because it’s never so twangy that you can’t hear a pop tune, but then, if you don’t want to hear traditional pop standards, well, these are closer to a bar singer than Frank Sinatra, so you’re going to be okay. Some of the cuts here are the best versions of the song ever imo, regardless of genre: “Blue Skies,” “Unchained Memory,” and “Someone to Watch Over Me.” And the other versions aren’t too shabby, either. There’s a couple songs here that I’d only play during a full listen, mainly “Moonlight in Vermont,” but at a tight 30 minutes, this is an easy full listen, and an obvious “play it back again” record. Nelson’s voice is just so gorgeous, like it feels factory calloused, worn out and patched like an old flannel, but somehow has this model-esque quality, too, with striking blue eyes that would make your lip quiver and your spine shiver if you stare too long. I think that’s the most compelling element here. His voice is just so amazing, and it begs you to revisit each song as soon as it’s over. Absolutely a gorgeous record that has more depth behind it than you’d initially assume. Not flawless because not every traditional pop song holds water, but I also wouldn’t be surprised if my least favorite songs are someone’s favorites, and vice versa. Honestly need to dig into Nelson’s own music now just to hear more of that golden voice.

I have not previously heard a full song of Willie Nelson. Although I knew of his legendary voice. Stardust is an amazing dreamy album to listen to and will definitely listen to it again.

Great album, love Willie's voice and was not expecting as much blues. Maybe I should listen to more Willie Nelson if that's news to me.

Willie Nelson took a risk here by recording standards and it certainly paid off. His voice and sparse arrangements give these songs a delicacy that they don’t have in their big band versions. The result is full of emotion and subtlety.

fuck, man. this hits me right in the feels. sometimes, simple is beautiful. 5/5

Thank you willie nelson for being a cutie and keeping me company while I read my old stories. I'll try to walk on the sunny side of the street <3

Had not heard this perfect CD of ballards country style. Such great renditions and what I usually feel is a tiresome voice works in this album perfectly. Perfect length. I dislike country but this CD which I had not listened to since 1993 when i High School, when for some reason my dad got a hold to it, he would play it on my way to drop me to school and I hated it, listening to it now its just a beautiful masterpiece we should all be able to enjoy. For context not one single country song is played in Puerto Rican radio stations, not then not now. So its a wierd genere to me.

Great takes on a lot of classic songs. Really well done.

# Playlist track - Stardust # Notes - Willie tells how it is from the very first second. It's cool, and crafted and it takes it time. Sit around and enjoy. Look at the sky for a while. - It's a pleasant, soothing ride all along. - When "Unchained Melody" comes up, I dread for a second. It's a very cheesy, overplayed song. Will it break the album? Nope. - 7/7 Stars

All timer baby. Love this album before it was generated for me

Amazing arrangements

I’m really glad this album was on the list. Willie Nelson is one of those guys that I haven’t really gone out of my way to listen to, but his music has been really hit or miss with me. About 20 years ago, I had a CD from him that was from the late 90s, and I loved it, but than everything else that I heard from him, just wasn’t the same. Wasn’t even the same style of country, but this album is the same style as that CD than I once had, and I’m loving this one.

Somehow had never come across this. Some really lovely covers, and a really interesting story behind the whole album’s impetus.

Beautiful sounding album.

This was so lovely.

Opening song, 'Stardust' is beautiful. Loving the harmonica everywhere. Surprisingly, Blue Skies is meh for me compared to the rest of the album. This album is just so beautiful. I always pictured Willie Nelson as a much more typical honky tonk country guy.

Album 362 of 1001 Willie Nelson - Stardust Rating : 5 / 5 Favorite Track : Georgia On My Mind A really enjoyable album that could appeal to most anyone. Was already familiar with all songs, so it was a pleasant revisit. Found myself thinking of the club owner in the Purple Rain sequence from the movie who was indifferent at first but then nodding his head in acceptance by the end. That is kind of how I feel when this album ends. Just an agreeable nodding of the head.

First time I enjoyed the harmonica— lot of soul in this.

Solid album

God Bless Willie!

Willie has an amazing voice and he really did justice to these classic tracks

I'll be honest, I only really knew 'On The Road Again' and 'Crazy' by Willie Nelson. Of course I knew who he was and his activism but musicaly, i just thought another Country icon. I listened to this album twice and have downloaded it. A voice like a comfy pair of slippers, a charisma that is timeless and a singer on a par - though different - with Sinatra. The songs may be standards and all sound similar to 'Crazy' or 'On The Road Again' but a discovery made many years too late.

A whole vibe.

Such a delightful voice, listening to this in the morning made me feel very peaceful. I would honestly compare it to Sinatra, only a country version, you can see the influence.

I love this album. Can't believe it was just his second release.

All these tunes are part of the American songbook. Classics. Willie has his own interpretation, which I appreciate. I liked it.

Love love love. Beautiful. Soothing.

I love, love, love this album. It’s my favorite from Willie and if I ever ranked my top 10 all time favorite albums, it’d at least be in consideration for the list. This is great to put on the record player while you’re doing things around the house, or playing board games, or, like today, in the morning easing into the day. I love Willie’s singing and guitar. Especially the solos and the guitar tone on the solos. Willie is a national treasure.

Very chill and pretty much perfect.

This was really phenomenal. I've listened to Willie before and thought he was good, but never gave his music much time to really sink in. There's something incredible about his comforting voice, his deep lyricism, and often contrasting but simple melodies (upbeat for sad songs, down for happy songs) that is really special, and this album is testament to that. Keep on rocking Willie.

awesome chill album!

This is by far my favorite Willie album. It is so well done and a perfect sound for him to evolve to. It is a must for any country fan. 9.5/10

Fantastic. Chill and excellent

ken van Willie Nelson alleen On the Road Again wel lekker rustig, kalm begin van de maandag Erg fijn en gemoedelijk album Ga hem zeker vaker terugluisteren

He’s a legend for good reason

Awwsome

Covers of standards. An excellent way to spend an evening.

Great southern music

A classic!!! Willie at his best.

Inarguable classic. The warmth of WN’s voice on this album is supernatural. His interpretations (reimaginings) are revelatory. Song selection is both obvious/inevitable and bold. Covering “Georgia” after Ray is ballsy, but he nails it with a version that IMO is the equal. The album is great from top to bottom. No misses. Nothing in the zip code of a miss. Love it.

Really beautiful album. Love the mostly simple arrangements and instrumentation, really allows the melodies and beautiful playing to shine. First Willie Nelson album I've listened to all the way through, definitely gonna check out some others now.

Absolutely killer cover album, Willie does all these songs justice and then some.

well arranged and sang old songs. Awesome!!!

Good heavens, this is so beautiful! Willie Nelson's voice is so amazingly soothing, and the arrangements are simply gorgeous. I could listen to this all day!

Wonderful covers! Awesome album.

Excellent. Can't believe I hadn't heard this album before. Beautiful.

Blue skies hit me at a special time

Such a great album. Will definitely be adding this to my music library.

nice

It’s Willie, for fuck’s sake

This is an album of jazz/pop covers which Willie reimagined in his own style. Interesting, given the fact that he was known for Outlaw country. This is different, but really solid. Surprised the hell out of me. This album is like country jazz. Willie's Spanish style of guitar strumming and some old jazz/pop staples being sung with his unique raspy voice. Apparently, Willie lived next to Booker T. Jones in Malibu, and asked him to help arrange the song Moonlight in Vermont. He liked it so much he got Booker T. to produce a whole album of jazz/pop hits for him. His record company execs didn't want him to make the album because they wanted another classic Willie Outlaw country album, but Willie basically told them to fuck off and made this record anyways, and it ended up going quintuple platinum. That's the definition of Outlaw country! Sticking it to the man! It was his 22nd album after all, he could do what he wanted! Favourite songs: Georgia on my Mind, Unchained Melody, On the Sunny Side of the Street, Don't Get Around Much Anymore, Someone to Watch Over Me, All of Me, Blue Skies, Moonlight in Vermont Least favourite songs: if forced to pick, Stardust 5/5

Wow, I never thought I'd love country music but here it is. Such a calm, peaceful vibe with Willie's genius evident throughout.

This album is great!

Good listen!

Honestly, I think Stardust is one of the most beautiful songs recorded. This whole album is incredible even though it's all covers.

One of my top 5 Willie Nelson albums. Willie always delivers.

Chill out!

Super chill. Older Willie Nelson singing his favorite pop songs.

Way better than I thought. Gotta listen to more willie. This was incredible.

I love Willie Nelson's voice. Also, there is clarity to each word he sings.

Exactly what a lyrical album should be. Enjoyed this way more than I thought I would’ve.

Ah, good ole Wiilie.

Willie Nelson's take on jazz oldies is very heartwarming and beautiful. Not trying to be a masterpiece makes it one.

Mostly covers, but this is one of the most beautiful albums I've ever heard.

I love willie.

Willie doing a bunch of old pop standards from the American Songbook. Beautiful, ethereal and wonderfully performed like never before with moments that can bring you to tears, a great album.

I could listen to Willie Nelson sing the dictionary. Just looking at the track list I know I'm going to enjoy this

This was a delightful surprise

•Owned •As a collection of pop standards, this album is wisely dedicated to the voice and the melody. Arranging and production are both treated with restrain (example: the coda of "Georgia on My Mind"), resulting in a perfect album. •5/5

Amazing. Love the album cover!

Have always like Willie Nelson and this album is no exception.

Beautifully done album

A classic Love it My dad had this album I wasn't sophisticated enough to appreciate it when I was 7. The songs are played gently with love So good

sehr schön, jazzige Coverversionen alter Klassiker.

I thought I knew Willie Nelson so this caught me by surprise. What a great album and interesting story about its making!

What an absolutely beautiful album. His voice was such a perfect fit for songs I never would have imagined it’d be. Love love loved it.

This was beautiful.

Pleasantly surprised with how chill and relaxing it was

FLAC.

9/10 Country album Remakes of classic songs by Willie Nelson

One can forget just how long ole Willie can hold a note. And I’d love to hear the way he works out around the ones he can’t get. Like the “to” on “God speed your love to me.” Most people make a roller coaster out of that too. Willie knows he can’t so he just doesn’t sing it until the very end really makes it a part of me, which he can hold. I don’t know man. There’s something so strange about this twangy schmaltz, but also so beautiful, that Willy took the songs and played them the way he wanted to hear them and it turns out it’s really kind of wonderful way to listen to these songs, the very clearly many many many people appreciate, including me. I’m not going around listening to this stuff all day every day but I gotta say I really respect the Willy version of the American songbook.

Totally mesmerizing - you can never tell if you’re being tucked in to bed or if you’re being pulled out to party, and it feels great either way. Willie is the absolute Man and his is at the top of my list of hands I’d like to shake.

Good weekend vibes.

LOVED

11/27/23. I never gave Willie Nelson a fair shot and glad I came across this album! I’m surprised by the versatility and different genres, and thoughtful lyrics.

I saw this described as a "comfort album" and I couldn't agree more. Something about this just feels warm and welcoming.

Masterpiece

No notes. Pleasantly surprised with every single song. So simple and great. 5 stars

Classic Willie covers.

Awesome album, really love Willie's voice. There's just something so relaxing in this album that is a joy to listen to.

I could listen to Willie sing anything, but this album of jazz standards is an especially great use of his voice.

My favorite Willie album. I didn’t expect it to be on this list. It moves so slowly and I love it for it. Rating: 4.6

I realized I had a soul after listening to this album

It was pretty mellow and cute. It had a lot of old Americana-sounding songs. I like that kind of stuff.

I love Willie, such a great vocal and great covers of legendary songs.

Soft country classic

JODER ES MÚSICA. Grandes arreglos, grandes progresiones, grandes lineas melódicas, grande todo nmms. Me encanta cuando las lineas melodicas lo hace la voz y luego los instrumentos. Los cambios de tonalidades NMMS estan cabrones, esta en una tonalidad mayor y pasa a una menor o disminuida para cambiar el mood de la canción impecable. Combina distintos generos muy bien, que pdo como pasa de country a jazz a folk y luego otra vez a country valiendole verga porque lo hace increible. Y luego se saca unos puentes que no mames, que buenos puentes, inesperados y resuelven muy bien. Y esa es otra, la manera en la que resuelven todas las canciones lo hace excelente, no todas, de hecho All Of Me no me gusto como resuelve pero vale verga, todo lo demas lo hace de huevos. Gran album. Grande Willie Nelson. Joder es música X2.

I Loved this one! - what a christmas time album! - I wanna sip some tea around a fire and just, FEEL!

Classic. Willie’s unique and original vocals makes this album of covers one of my favorites

Soooo good. No expectations and this album was beautiful.

Very dreamy. Willy Nelson has a beautiful voice. I don't think I recognized any of the songs, but I will def give it another listen.

Man, what a treat. Right album at the right time. Had kind of a rough day, but you just can’t even be mad listening to this. God bless Willie Nelson. 100% elevated my mood. Wonderful wonderful wonderful. Top 3 On the Sunny Sode of the Street Starlight Don’t Get Around Much Anymore But really, the whole album was just a delight.

Entirely delightful — Willie's covers of contemporary 60s and 70s classics :) Will come back to this.

So peaceful

Such a wonderful collection of standards. Willie’s voice is endlessly peaceful, and brings such joy.

This was my first Willie Nelson album. His voice was full and light. Each track sounded authentic and meaningful. I can definitely listen to this album on a starry night. Stardust is a must listen and easily a 5! 5

Surprisingly awesome!

You never really hear about how beautiful Willie's voice is but this album showcases that perfectly.

The "Unchained Melody" cover is something out of this world.

Album is on my shelf. Willy is a national treasure and this is just another reason why. awesome covers.

One of my favorite artists. He just got such a calming tone to his music. Great album, putting his spin on popular songs, rather than western themes. Great stuff

I’m more of a Redheaded Stranger fan, but what great production and musicianship

"Stardust" is the 22nd studio album by Willie Nelson. After jogging, Willie encountered his Malibu unknown-neighbor-at-the-time Booker T. Jones. They became friends and later recorded a pop standard song. Willie got the idea of recording and having Booker T. produce a whole album of songs from the Great American Songbook. His label, Columbia, was not very happy given Willie's outlaw country rep. Well, the album reached #1 on the Country Album Charts, stayed on those charts for over two years and hit #30 on the US Billboard Top 200. The album opens with the Hoagy Carmichel classic "Stardust." It's slow, the drumbeat. The Sparse guitar. A wobbly harmonica. Strings and Willie's voice. It's funny; this song starts like "Stairway to Heaven." I think Wille could do wonders with a whole album of Led Zeppelin covers. I don't think you can top Ray Charles on "Georgia on My Mind." But, Willie gives this his own soulful spin. Same thing with "Unchained Melody" and the Righteous Brothers. Willie doesn't need to; he takes it his own way and style. A nice laid back version of this with a harmonica, slide guitar and more strings. The focus of the second side is more jazzy. "Moonlight in Vermont" was the first song Willie recorded with Booker T. Heavy piano on this as with most of the songs on the second side. One of the best songs on the album and the closing one is the Gershwin's "Someone to Watch Over Me." Guitar, an organ, strings. The song seems to fuse jazz, country and soul. This album is a great interpretation of classic songs and is just a great album on its own. The production, pacing and arrangements are perfect for Willie's voice giving him a lot of space. And Willie's voice...the strength and emotion. I read that Willie used to be known for Willie's country songs but after this just Willie's songs. That's so true; there's no adequate genre description of this. It's just Willie.

Fantastic. Willy is so unique and the fact that this was released in 1979 is so ahead of it's time. I feel like late 90s and 2000's saw the rise of pop/country/rock stars singing from the great American songbook. He prob did this album 15-20 years earlier. For the love of music. It shows.

What an amazing voice Willie has on this album. Probably some of his finest work.

Very soft and sweet. A true comfort album.

This album is nothing but bangers Favorite track: Georgia On My Mind

I love it when Highwaymen step outside of country to drop some beautiful covers. This is a great concept for an album and I found it super enjoyable and mellow, Willie has a really calming voice so pulling ballads and love songs feels right.

Despite being very unfamiliar with his music, I’ve always sort of liked Willie Nelson. I honestly couldn’t explain why, he just seems to give off nice vibes. It will be interesting to hear al album in full today, although it is an album of covers rather than original music. Songs I already knew: Unchained Melody (although I hadn’t heard this version before) Favourites: Georgia On My Mind, On The Sunny Side Of The Street If yesterday’s album felt like an antidepressant, then this felt like a benzodiazepine. It was very relaxing. Willie’s voice is so soft and imperfect, as if it is a grandparent singing you to sleep. I only recognised Unchained Melody, so although the rest were covers they didn’t feel like it to me. He didn’t sound like he was singing somebody else’s lyrics and really did the songs justice. This was a lovely listen.

Willie Nelson has such an amazing and authentic voice. This is an album that just felt like a warm hug while listening to it. Not traditional Willie but that makes it all the more fun.

BL: Willie Nelson is iconic and a cultural icon but despite this I’ve never listened to any of his music. I hope to rectify this error and make good. AL: This is brilliant. Can’t believe I slept on Willie Nelson for so long. A very nice collection of well known tracks. This almost feels like a “babies first Willie Nelson”, and I’m all here for it. The gentle soulful organ, the twang of the acoustic guitar, this is country at its finest. Very much liked this FT: “Stardust”, “Georgia on my Mind”, “Someone to watch over me” 5/5

This is an amazing cover album, which was played frequently in my childhood, and introduced me to the idea that :"standards" could be covered and transformed into nearly any genre. Willie is at his best here, creative, not too honky-tonk, subtle and smart. Amazing guitar playing too. A lifelong favorite album of mine. 5/5

My parents owned this vinyl, and I have a copy on my records shelf too. Willie went out on a limb here and made a gem.

I have a special connection to this album, because it was playing when I first felt my son while he was still in his mother's belly. Then we listened to this album during the birth.

Own on Vinyl

Gorgeous. I love Willie Nelson's voice, and distinct style of guitar playing. Is every song thrilling? No but it feels good and shows us the range of his talents. I would absolutely listen tot is again.

Classic Willie. Familiar, warm, haunting in its own bittersweet way. Excellent spin.

Good ol’ Willie singing a bunch of classics with his trusty guitar Trigger. A little jazzy, a little strummy……what a great album.

I really enjoyed it! I want to listen to it at night tho. Added a few songs to my playlists.

Not me soaking in the bath tub after a long stressful day crying to Willie Nelson now. Goddamn Willie, you’re a magnificent bastard. Can’t believe you got me flipping for a record of covers. Iconic. His voice is unmistakably pure and emotive. Classic and understated with remarkable confidence and grace too. I love it. Thanks for the letting me have all my feels today, Willie. You’re a bro.

Soft and poetic folk music that feels like stardust, with a bonus unchained melody cover song

One of my all-time favorite albums

Such a good good good good good album. Classic Willie singing, country melded with a little jazzy lightness, absurdly good arrangements and playing. This had everything it needed to have, and nothing it didn't.

I mean, c'mon. It is Willie getting more wistful and nostalgic, and killing musical staples.

Always entertaining, Willie delivers the standards as only he could. Probably the first perfect album on listened to on this list.

superb

Listened to this three times yesterday. Willie's voice transports me back via some sort of mental process that I don't fully understand. It's so beautiful and invokes a nostalgia for something that ... maybe I didn't really experience?

Love it

Utterly delightful. Willie is a treasure, and so are his takes on these songs

Love this record. It s not the Willie you think of, but it’s the Willie you need.

Great album. The openings of both Midnight in Vermont and Stardust seem to be playing a bit of the Maggie May opening riff.

Perfect way to start the day gently. I enjoyed every song and every bit of Willie Nelson’s voice.

Amazing writer with a very distinctive style.

Insanely beautiful vocals. Such calming delivery.

Good and Chill

Super album avec potentiel de reecoute incroyable. J’ai adore les reprises. 5

Willie! Timeless. Classic. Genius.

Willy at his best. Singing those sweet tunes that just make you happy.

Excellent!!!

I love these covers, but I keep singing along like it was the originals, and it kinda throws me off. They're still so good though. 5

Подслушано! Очень душевный и классный альбом. Отличное кантри.

Good god this is beautiful. I didn't expect to enjoy it so much but the production is so clean and warm, and the arrangements are just beautiful. I know this is a record of pop standards, but Nelson really really fucking nails them. Beautiful altogether.

Stardust showcases perfectly why Willie Nelson is one of the best country artists out there. The minimal instrumentals let his voice guide the album effortlessly from one song to the next, and you've gone through all 10 songs before you know it.

grande presença, muito agradável

very subtle and chill, it was perfect for a short ride from work🥰 was just thinking of him this week you psychis u😂

Loved this record.

10/10 really, really beautiful I’ve enjoyed Willie Nelson since I was a little kid, listening to K-Rose on GTA SA this whole album is just so goshdarn lovely

Wonderful album, he's got a great voice as always and the band is incredible.

I didn't have to relisten to this to know I was giving it five stars but I did anyway. I love genius songwriter Willie and outlaw country Willie but I think Great American Songbook crooning Willie is my favorite Willie.

Soft and classic

Peerless country soul

A perfect album - end to end - and it’s Willie Nelson’s 22nd I found out. Wow.

hello um hacker

Willie continues to blow me away - an incredible voice with so much depth. Guitar playing doesn't even need to be talked about its that good.

idk yet

5 stars

A trip in the past to hear some wonderful songs by one of the best storytellers.

Perfect in my book.

21st February 2022 Listened on the train on the way to the airport in Stockholm while the snow came down outside. Beautiful from start to finish. Simple, true songwriting.

Do I love a good covers album, especially when it's all old, classic songs. Even though these aren't Willie Nelson's original songs, his emotions are so palpable. I feel so connected with these songs, some new to me, even after one listen. Every song is a hit. A beautiful album that includes genre hopping! Oh what can’t Willie Nelson do?

Que album espetaclar!! musicas prediletas: -Stardust -Georgia on my mind -Blue Skies -Unchained Melody

This was a sweet treat. Soft and melodic.

Amazing album, I love Willie's voice and guitar playing and I feel like this production is perfect for it. The song choices are awesome, basically Willie's favorite pop standards. Some people hate on albums with "covers" but these are musicians playing music, you get bonus points for writing the lyrics not deductions. Whose name do you recognize more Elton John or Bernie Taupin? I don't see much of a difference between their relationship and an artist who put out an album of "covers" as long as they make the music their own and aren't just a band playing exact covers in a bar.

Fantastic. Haven’t listened to him before but classic songs done very well.

Beautiful, just beautiful. 5****

I discovered Moonlight in Vermont a month ago and thought it was a recent Willie Nelson song. Here now I find this album and realise what a jackass I am.

9/10

When I was a kid, I HATED country music. Country music was my parents' music. You know what happens when you play country music backwards? Your wife comes back to you, your dog comes back to life and your truck miraculously gets fixed. My parents listened to country music of the time, in particular the group Alabama. But I remember hearing Willie Nelson on the radio, in particular "You Were Always On My Mind." I got back into Willie Nelson and Johnny Cash recently. Particularly with Cash being revitalized with producer Rick Rubin. Willie Nelson's cover of "The Scientist" is what made me want to look into his work. So the point is I had listened to this album before. It's a great album for Nelson, it complements his voice very well. Definitely well-done and great production.

Oh, I love these songs so much. And Willie Nelson did, too, and he sang them on this album, and they're perfect. I will listen to this many times again. Hooray for a celebration of the most beautiful songs by a unique, lovely voice.

I am familiar with Willie Nelson. I have never listened to a Willie Nelson album, and I have never even heard of this one. What a surprise I had in store...I love this album. When I saw Willie Nelson pop up on the list, I wasn't excited. For most of my young life I found Willie's music very off-putting...not just the style of music, but his actual voice. I have matured to a point where I can listen to Willie Nelson, but I can't think of a time where I have ever sought to listen any of his music...but I just couldn't get enough of this album. The musical arrangements were extraordinary and Willie's delivery very special. It felt so gentle and heartwarming...just plain comforting. I am still stunned at how much I enjoyed listening to the album and I don't know why I ever would have, if not for this listening project! I want more!!

Thank you, 1001 Robot, for giving me this album today. It was a balm for my soul at the end of a sad week. There is a delicacy, a clarity, a precision to every note of this album. Tempos are steady, slow, and deliberate, giving a sense of being suspended in some warm, gooey, sweet syrup. These are some of my favorite standards delivered by musicians of the highest order. Perfection.

Soul is happy

Soothing and calm, but a tad short.

Willie does the standards! I loved this so SO so So so much. Funny story, when I first discovered this website, I made an account and this was the FIRST album that came up. I didn't end up listening to it by the end of the day, and I was so new to the site that I couldn't figure out how to go back. So I started a whole new account, and I've been waiting about a year for it to come back up. Georgia on My Mind, Unchained Melody, and Don't Get Around Much Anymore are tops.

Infinitely soothing. Willie means every word he sings and every note he plays. Beautiful stuff

The 22nd Willie Nelson's album (1978) consisting of great cover versions of famous songs in traditional pop style. Enjoyed it a lot!

Listened to this one while visiting my mom.. she approves. You have great taste, mom, love you.

Fantastic! What a surprise - all classics, beautifully done.

Super easy listening

Excellent album. Short and sweet. Crosses genres with jazz/blues/country. Album starts strong and carries throughout. 8.9/10

Man I love it Calming soothing and honest

A wonderful selection of songs that are carried far by Nelson's voice. Beautifully peaceful, a great listen.

Great album.

Really nice album - did make me feel very single though. Feel like it is the kind of music you sway around the kitchen with your childhood sweetheart too. I just washed up on my own :')

Very Good Album!

you don’t understand, i’m obsessed. the title track is phenomenal and i hate that i’m only discovering it now

sounds very pretty, beautiful and calming

Gorgeous album, super chilled out

Wow, what a fantastic album. This is up there with American IV for me as one of the greatest cover albums of all time. Willie really brings a unique take on these classic songs. Incredible.

אם לבילי ג׳ואל ולסרטי פיקסאר היה ילד אה הוא היה שונא יהודים

Brilliant

i like how understated it is, the vocal performance is really emotive without ever getting cheesy or too sentimental. his voice is rough in some spots but it doesn't really detract. pretty nice production too. moonlight in vermont🥺🥺. giving it a 5, i don't think I'd change anything about it.

Música maravilhosa de se ouvir! Preciso terminar e ouvir com mais atenção às faixas

A lot of known songs

Great

Not sure why I never really listened to Willie Nelson. I like his voice, and I like older country. So far, I’m enjoying this one.

Great album of covers. Several of these are almost as enjoyable as the originals: Georgia On My Mind, All of Me, and Blue Skies.

Kind of slow and lovely, and definitely not what I expected from Willie Nelson. He did a great job with the pop standards though. Beautiful!

Super enjoyed—a lot of covers of songs I already liked, but with a Willie vibe.

Willie is a crooner. Georgia on my Mind cover is fantastic. This was an easy great listen.

aaaaaa walang tapon na song huhuhuhu ang gandaaa <3 altho i know some songs are covers (not sure if lahat! :O hahaha) but still they're good covers

*1978. *Willie covering old songs from primarily the 1920s/1930s shouldn't work, but of course it does. *Georgia on My Mind, Blue Skies, All of Me, and Unchained Melody are the big hits, but the whole album is solid. *Loved learning from several people's comments that the record label wasn't into Willie deviating from outlaw country, but of course the album was a hit. RATING - 7.5/10

I think this record goes down so smooth, so immediately familiar, that it could possibly be taken for granted. Ok, I mean...obviously not as it is multi-platinum and critically acclaimed but I had the thought at first 'Maybe there isn't a lot here?' But it takes some serious stones to follow up your outlaw country hits with a record covering American standards. I think the arrangements feel both lived in and yet hand crafted, and Willie's signature vocal and guitar phrasing shine.

I liked every song, he has a great voice

It’s beautiful album , nothing special in there in terms of standouts for him

I know these are covers but Willie makes them his own. They're actually all the best versions of these songs.

Very nice to hear Willie’s voice but I still wish it were original material.

I wouldn't say that Willie is always my cup of tea, but there's no denying his talent. I liked Blue Skies and his renditions of Georgia On My Mind and Unchained Melody.

me hace sentir en una romcom. romzantizar la vida se vuelve fácil con blue skies tbh. las melodías son completamente majestuosas, me dan ganas de irme a francia a tocar algún instrumento en la calle como único ingreso. estoy en el colectivo mientras escribo esto y escucho el álbum flashendome una vida con el chabon en el asiento de en frente. recomiendo si sentis que tu vida es una mierda y te pones mitski a las 9am (me proyecté)

I did not expect to like this. Willie is categorized in my brain as cheesy shlock country pop. But I got to say, my foot was tapping and I was smiling more and more as this kept playing. By the time All of Me came on, I was full on engaged. A lot of the guitar work reminded me of Chet Atkins or David Bromberg. Now my question is had Sinead O'Connor known about this album when she created Am I Not Your Girl?, which has the same premise of cover tunes of the classic songs she heard in her home as a child. Another album which introduced a new generation to classics while bringing a new older audience to her fanbase.

I made a mistake listening to this just before noon. This is only for the pre-dawn hours or pitch-black nocturnal reflections, no other time. Soft to the point of lulling me to sleep, and I'm not quite sure if that's a compliment or not. Does great work for relaxation, though.

low energy funky blues click and sway, brings subtle joy to your mood end of summer sipping a cocktail in a plaza

Very chill and an easy listen. 3.6

Not my fave Stones

Este álbum en lo personal, me llegó bastante, nostalgia y calma te traen en el, me sentí con muchas emociones encontradas, sin duda, un álbum que conecta con tu subconciente cuando no necesariamente necesitas que llegue la noche para estar en ello.

I was never a big Willie Nelson fan growing up, but in the mid 2000s I got free tickets to see him and John Fogerty at Deer Creek. I won them the afternoon of the concert and my wife and I had to leave immediately to get there in time. My mind was forever changed. To say that they were absolutely incredible live is a remarkable understatement, and it's the first thing that came to mind when this popped up in the queue. The album itself did not disappoint, though I was never aware of it or its remarkable background (his 22nd album in 16 years, and it stayed in the top 100 for a full decade?? Inconceivable!!). I was familiar with several of the songs, but not his renditions, and I must say I enjoyed it enough to play through twice before singling out my favorites. It's a solid 4/5 that made me long to smoke weed with Willie again.

156. Stardust - Willie Nelson (1978) 7.28.26 Variety: 2 Adequacy: 5 Listenability: 5 Uniqueness: 3 Emotionality: 4 = 3.8 rounded up to a 4 "Blue days, all of them gone/ Nothing but blue skies from now on" I think by the time this is over we'll have heard several great swings at the great American songbook by well established artists. Willie was only 45 when this was recorded but in memories as a kid, this album made him seem like he was already the ancient, grey haired elder statesman musician he was already morphing into. The cover of this one even exists has a hazy childhood memory, as it was one of the records my grandpa had mixed in with all his Elvis and gospel records. This stood out though, and maybe my tiny brain connected the cover art to Star Wars or E.T. or something, with the deep blue night sky and the twinkling stars. And since I heard all of these before any of the originals ( to my knowledge anyway) these versions themselves are THE versions of those classics in my mind. Enough so that at various points I probably wondered why Bing Crosby or whoever was singing a Willie Nelson song when I would hear the original. I am now wondering if this might have been my first inkling of the concept of cover songs? I certainly became fascinated with them, and when I was able to enjoy the short lived pleasures of the iPod when it came out, I quickly loaded the thing up with covers. I'm sure this will be an easy one. THE TRACKS Side one v- Picture yourself out west. It's nighttime Monument Valley, and you're huddled around a campfire with your fellow cowpokes. The sky is so clear and bright it looks like a painting. Maybe there are some animals gathering around. This is the soundtrack to that moment. Or at least it's what I picture in my head when I listen to this. Willie's gentle acoustic playing, with the barebones accompaniment of the drum and the feather weight notes of the Hammond organ give this a rolling, calming vibe that is pretty unequalled. And yet it still manages to be a bit melancholy, looking back at loves past. But it's still a comforting sort of sadness. "Georgia on My Mind" - Another Hoagy Carmichael classic that can only be trumped by the Ray Charles version. Willie's got plenty of soul, but c'mon... Even he would likely bow out in that contest. If Willie's version has a leg up in any way it's that it manages to be slightly more sweetly melancholy, where Ray's version feels more painful. "Blue Skies" - This one has been described as "the saddest song about happiness ever written" and I can buy that, especially with Willie at the helm. On paper it's all absolute joy and, but the minor key creates that sad tension, so it's already there for him to work with and man, does he make a meal of it. Willie makes the implicit feeling of someone trying to talk themselves into happiness ( and maybe failing) very explicit. Which maybe is besides the point of the thing, but it works very well just the same. My favorite track on the album. "All of Me" - Heartbreak, longing, and emptiness never sounded so jaunty. The shuffling beat carries this jazzy breakup song ( THE breakup song?) along and Willie keeps it breezy and light. A fine entry, but do yourself a favor and listen to BIllie Holiday's version, with which this just cannot compare: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5J18k5Sx3Dw. "Unchained Melody" - A song I otherwise do not care for, and not helped by the fact that the Righteous Brothers version being EVERYWHERE when I was a kid. Willie comports himself admirably, and his version is maybe the most palatable one I can think of. Not even a fan of the Elvis version. Side two "September Song" - There are a LOT of great covers of this one. Among the ones I dig the most are ones by Ella Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra, Eartha Kitt, Bryan Ferry, Jeff Lynne... I'll stop there, and note that Willie's is my favorite, by far. It's already a sad song ultimately about death and realizing how little time we all have, and I think Willie nails it. The arrangement here is one of the prettier ones as well with the relaxed jazzy notes floating out and swimming around in the air around your head. Tailor made for retirement home slow dances. "On the Sunny Side of the Street" - An exception here with Willie actually playing into the cheerful, bright nature of the song. The jazzy piano notes help this, and we're left with the one legitimate happy song on the album in my opinion. Surely Kermit the Frog has done this one? "Moonlight in Vermont" - This one doesn't leave me cold by any means, but it's just not one I connect with all that much. Willie does yet another fine job with it though, and adds a sort of longing I don't see in the Sinatra or Ella version ( maybe the only other versions I've heard?). Both of those are more romantic and Christmasy to me. "Don't Get Around Much Anymore" - This jazzy number gets an infusion of Western swing from Willie and the boys, and it moves along a nice pace and ends on a bluesy note. More fine stuff, but only special because Willie's driving. "Someone to Watch Over Me" - We end on a high note with a lonesome cowboy version of a Gershwin classic. The Spanish notes on the guitar solo add a little something extra special to the mix, and Willie's vocals here might be among the most emotional on the album. HIGHLIGHTS - "Stardust" - "Georgia on My Mind" - "Blue Skies" - "September Song" - "On the Sunny Side of the Street" - "Someone to Watch Over Me" MIDLIGHTS - "All of Me" - "Unchained Melody" - "Moonlight in Vermont" - "Don't Get Around Much Anymore" LOWLIGHTS - FINAL THOUGHTS If this album suffers from anything, it's the knowledge that these songs in fact did not spring forth from that be-pigtailed noggin of his. As uniformly great as the interpretations are, it can't help but feel like lighter, lesser materiel when it goes up against the likes of his originals. He still owns most of these in my mind, which softens the blow, but by all accounts this really was a bit of a lark that just happened to touch a nerve and launch him into the stratosphere and I think minted him as an international star. Over the years I have noted several instances of Willie being revered in the UK, and it always struck me as a little odd. Like how would country music be popular over there? But re-listening to this especially, it makes a lot more sense. Even his other more traditional country stuff is more thoughtfully and has less of that cowboy swagger that turns even the likes of me off quite a bit, so if there was a representative of the genre who was going to make it big internationally, it had to be him. This album I think cemented that legacy. As much as I love it, I have to knock it for variety and innovation. As good as these are, and as interesting, and creative as the interpretations are, they are still just interpretations of already well loved songs. If most anyone has covered this same set list, they'd get knocked down even further probably. All the gravy here is Willie and Willie alone. Many of these songs I don't even like as performed by other, even objectively great artists. There aren't any stinkers here, but there's just a very hard ceiling for this sort of thing. PLAYLIST ALTERATIONS - FURTHER LISTENING - Chet Baker Sings by Chet Baker - Sarah Vaughan with Clifford Brown by Sarah Vaughan with Clifford Brown - In the Wee Small Hours by Frank Sinatra - Ella Fitzgerald Sings the Cole Porter Song Book by Ella Fitzgerald - Lady Sings the Blues by Billie Holiday - Modern Sounds in Country and Western Music by Ray Charles - Mr. Soul by Sam Cooke - Both Sides Now by Joni Mitchell

For the most part I enjoyed this album though it dragged a bit at the end (last few songs were a bit too crooner for me). But all-in-all, I laud his choices and for the most part Willie pulls it off. 4 "it's in the voice" stars.

We and all life are made of stardust.

JL : 4

I knew like half the songs but Willie's versions are all new to me. Warm and tender with wisps of melancholy, that's the good stuff

The crossover you never thought you needed. Willie Nelson sings Hoagy Carmichael and the rest of the standards songbooks. And the result is charming. Willie brings tenderness and vulnerability to the songbook.

Immaculate vibes

A beautiful journey of lonesome tunes, sung brilliantly by one of the best voices in country, tied together by the common denominator of every song here being a rendition of a traditional pop standard. And looking at the cover, staring up at the night sky, is what this whole album feels like. Even on the happier songs, there’s an air of sadness on them. There are some songs that I think would’ve been much better off not on this project, but it’s hard to not appreciate it for what it is, which is a great, charming little album. 8.4/10

Prime Willie. Sweet and simple. Nothing heavy, no overt twang nor kitsch, just classics from a better time in America.

Excellent

Easy listening by the legend himself

Stardust - 3/5 Georgia on my mind - 3/5 Blue skies - 4/5 All of me - 4/5 Unchained melody - 5/5 (awesome cover) September song - 4/5 On the sunny side of the street - 3/5 Moonlight in Vermont - 2/5 Dont get around much anymore - 3/5 Someone to watch over me - 4/5

Solid album. Good covers

Smooth and silk but I thing the 5th star is only accessible when laying in a straw friend which i don't have at hand

Not a country fan but this is nice.

I don’t know if I’ve ever actually sat down and listened to Willie Nelson , and while it’s not something I would normally gravitate towards, this album was so good. Some of the best versions of these classic pop songs.

7.5/10

good stuff

Willie!!!! Best Song: All of Me Rating: 8/10 Stars: 4

Por un momento pensé que todas eran originales de el y que era todo un genio por crear tantas canciones tan iconicas, cuando vi que todas eran covers me desilusione, pero igual fue bastante bueno

Willie Nelson - Stardust Timeless songs? Tick. Exquisite playing? Tick. Voice full of experience, life and pain? Tick. Long overdue sales for a man who didn't ever give a fuck? Tick? Big middle finger to the record label? Tick Anything not to like? Nope. Am I glad I heard it? Yes. Will I play it again? Probably not 😂 Best Track - September Song (all too poignant) Worst Track - Sunny Side of the Street (didn't quite suit) 8/10

slow paced, intentional, lovely

Relaxing and soulful easy listening. Afternoon nap music in the best way possible

I don't really listen to country and I actually really enjoyed this one. It was very beautiful and melodic. Dang who knew.. makes me wanna sleep under the stars

I really enjoyed this! I love old country!

just calm and lovely tbh

Classic Willie.

Such a lovely mix of covers, also love the album artwork. The instruments aren't overdoing it either. Big campfire vibes. Love blue skies

Good album.

This is a really great album! I love how melancholy it is. I'm assuming they are all covers, but it wouldn't surprise me if Willie Nelson wrote them all!

This is a surprisingly very good album by Willie stepping out from his traditional rebel cowboy mode but not as great as his successful sales in my opinion. His voice doesn't capture the timeless spirit of these great American standards.

Definitely my first Willie album that got me really into him. Weird that it's just a cover album but I think the arrangments really emphasize how great his voice is.

I'm not a country music guy, but Willie is an exception. Hopefully no time soon, but if ever a mortal were able to achieve apotheosis on their journey to the world after this one, it'd be this guy. I look forward to our one day minor god of music.

all of me !!!!!!! cover so good i enjoyed this very much

love willie voice like a nice hug

Feels like he's singing to you over a campfire.

I liked this more than I expected. All pleasant, easy to listen to covers. Soulful Folk.

MUY LINDOOO. sono re cute y con las notas esas

This type of country might be more my speed. Very calm record, like the vibe and Nelson's voice. He really makes these songs his own. Highlights-Stardust, Georgia on My Mind, Blue Skies, September Song, On The Sunny Side of the Street, Moonlight in Vermont, Don't Get Around Much Anymore, and Someone to Watch Over Me.

Surprisingly lovely

Nothing all that special for Willie standards but its still Willie. Very light on guitar might be my only downside or maybe the covers if they are. I got a bunch of likes and they all hit hard. Very relaxed and chill and very good all around. Moonlight in Vermont is the best one but you cant go wrong with anything here.

Americana at its finest. You can drift away to these songs.

Classic American songs delivered tenderly by a classic American artist. It's tough for a good ol' boy like me to complain

All great versions of standards, his versions of Moonlight in Vermont & All of Me are incredible. His voice isn't particularly elastic so he gets locked into one specific cadence that works well for each song he picked and helps make Stardust singular and personal.

Much better than expected. I enjoyed it.

ugh love the opening guitar. so warm and soft. love JFK GEORGIA ON MY MIND THOSE HARMONICAS does get kitschy but isn’t that the draw of willie nelson

Very nice 4/5

Some well written songs. Feels more jazzy than country.

I honestly wasn't very familiar with most of the tracks he covered here, so I looked to the originals (or a popular cover) and listened to those after my first listen through this album. I really enjoyed Willie's versions. I thought the folksy, bluegrass arrangements along with Willie's soulful, melancholic crooning really brought the best out of them. Don't Get Around Much Anymore was probably the only miss imo. It's hard to improve on The Duke though. This does feel like an odd addition to include from Willie on the list, but I'm not complaining.

Oon aina tykännyt Willien äänestä ja sen soinnista. Tää levy on ihan mukavaa, easy listening-osastoa. Paras biisi on Unchained Melody, mikä on todella tuttu biisi.

Nice

Willie is a phenomenal songwriter and arranger. I also believe he is an underrated guitarist, sure he's not a technical shredder but his taste and delicate touches are what sets him apart from others. What is interesting about this however is that none of these songs were written by Mr. Nelson. His arrangements and performances of these pop standards not only do the originals justice but they bring to life a new perspective that lets these songs stand on their own whether you are familiar with them or not. I enjoyed this more than I thought I would going into it and while this isn't my preferred genre I won't discount the fact that this is very good work just simply because country/western isn't what I prefer to listen to. What I can say for a fact is I would rather listen to this than any of the faux country, designer clothes, butt rock being passed off as country these days. 4 stars.

Not Willie's best by far, but he demonstrates his ability to master other genres with grace. A good listen.

Makes me feel like an old white man.

This album is truly heartwarming. I always loved Willie and his singing and playing, and the rendition of September Song here is my favorite (of one of my favorite songs ever). And I know that this album inspired Bob Dylan's standards run in the late 2010's, which I love, but somehow I never listen to this one from front to back. So glad I did now. Willie is the perfect candidate to sing this song. He does so so gently, humble but also joyful and incredibly musical. He gives the same attention to the melodies and lyrics, like the great ones do. Straight to my library Another very strong inclusion to this generator. A strong 4

Liked this a lot more than I anticipated, maybe 2nd best version of Georgia on my mind

willie nelson managed to make a cover album that doesn't feel like a cover album. well done my fellow stoner.

a beautiful album. i'm not a country man, and couldn't tell you a single willie nelson song coming into this, but this record is great. nelson's raw vocals and the fingerpicking patterns used with the acoustic guitar go hand in hand. and that sexy harmonica gets me going. a lot of great songs covered by nelson in this album. loving stardust - georgia on my mind - don't get around much anymore

An easy, well produced album of covers and originals. Nelson’s voice is right on. This isn’t something that I’d normally listen to, but I enjoyed it.

Hey this was nice. It was smooth, chill, recognizable, and altogether highly listenable. I imagine when it was released it came across as a quite the shift compared to Willie’s usual outlaw persona.

Peaceful. Nice morning album.

A good, solid covers/standards album. I liked Willie’s takes. 4/5

This is just pleasant.

Groovy and chill, a bit cliche "Georgia peaches, California sun, Florida beaches, colorado mountains, New York skyline, moonlight in Vermont" ok bud we get it you can name all the states

Nice but not 5*

Beautiful country forever

Slow easy listening in a country style to some jazz classics. Very enjoyable. It helps knowing all the songs.

I'm not familiar with Willie Nelson's work despite his name being commonplace. He's just someone I never got around to personally, and fell outside of the genre pool my dad was largely playing during my youth. So I'm entering this album truly with a fresh set of eyes & ears, with a rather minimal understanding of Willie's discography and understanding of what to expect. With that being said, this is not what I was expecting. Typically, I associated Nelson with more classic country— and don't get me wrong, his country moments show in the album with the harmonica making frequent appearances. *Stardust*, front-to-back has a much more soulful, jazzy feel to it. Post-listen, finding out that this was an American Pop Standards, or classics album makes a lot of sense. I think it's a really cool approach to an album in both the context of it's release time and today. It's really an against-the-grain album, going back and paying homage to all the great American Classics. Even while this is a Classics album, I still feel like there's a level of raw, authenticity & realism to Nelson's delivery. Like, while in retrospect the album is a bunch of covers, at no moment did I think the delivery was anything but Willie Nelson. I'm not really a big country guy, nor a classics guy— but I think there is something special about this combination & presentation here by Willie Nelson. Might not be in a heavy rotation, or play it digitally all too much, but I do think this is a record I would want to pick up and spin from time to time. Favorite Song: "September Song"

Hit after hit after hit. I've always been a Willie Nelson fan, but this album was a reminder of just how many hits he's written and or sung. I'm guess that us cowboys and cowgirls are a little more biased in favor of this album, but WIllie Nelson's so famous and so well-known, it's hard not to have an opinion going into it. I honestly thought this was going to be a 5-star for me, but it slowed down toward the middle of the record. Solid, solid 4.5.