Red Headed Stranger

Good Willie

Sorry, not my musictaste

326/1089 i will never be a fan of (traditional) country and this album isn’t changing that. but Willie’s voice is quite nice and definitely makes it bearable the type of music that i can appreciate more if it’s soundtracking a good scene in a show etc kinda ironic that i mention willie’s voice being a key highlight only for my two fave tracks to be instrumental (down yonder and bandera) 60/100

1/2

Love Willie! Big fan of 1970s country music. Such a great album. Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain is definitely one of my favorite Willie songs.

Great concept album that tells the story of lost love, revenge, murder and misery of a preacher in the west. Once I connected the story behind the music it made the album even better. This is an album that the listener needs to engage intellectually to enjoy.

What a great album, would listen to again

Went into it thinking I was gonna hate this. Honestly so mellow, and lovely to listen to. Little bit boring as it went on though

Bajo.

Quiet and calming, I love simple instrumentation

The more I listen to albums like this the more I realise I actually do like country. Who could have imagined!

1001 albums to hear before you country yourself until exhaustion 125# Knowing i don't like country.. i don't like this album. It's just country, turned up a notch. Really mellow ballads.. with a voice that everyone is saying that they like it, but I really just think it is just a middle of the road voice I really can't understand the appeal. Well, these are cute little tunes but nothing really heartfelt nor catches my attention.

Nice to listen with the rain

Made the E train smell like campfire smoke and wide open spaces.

a nice album. I enjoyed listening to it. Some quiet country/folk type songs. Something that I might listen to again, although probably not purchase

Bland, didn't care for it

I am a sucker for a bluesy, country album and this did not disappoint! I like the storyline throughout all of the songs too— feels cohesive

First thought, this should be an absolute treat. Second thought, oh this is Willie Nelson, not Kenny Rogers. Third thought, "Yes an album with s through line!". 4th thought. This is quiet nice, not necessarily my thing, but still worthy of 4 stars

good for a morning drive

I would give this 7 stars, it’s a perfect piece of art

Favorite songs: Time of the Preacher, I Couldn’t Believe It Was True, Time of the Preacher Theme, Medley: Blue Rock Montana / Red Headed Stranger, Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain, Red Headed Stranger, Time of the Preacher Theme, Just as I Am, Can I Sleep in Your Arms

not really feeling it

I liked it but a little too repetitive for me

A country concept album? This is one of the best country albums of all time. Authenticity, coherence, and great songs.

Has a very easy comforting sound not dissimilar to many other country music I've heard before. He's got a good voice and I like the theme of the Stranger. Wouldn't be on my regular rotation but I wouldn't shut it off if it came on.

6/10 What’s most interesting about this album is that, as a collection of songs, it’s pretty mundane, but as an album it feels much more complete. The ideas are fleeting, and there are only three songs that run longer than three minutes, meaning that many of the motifs and themes come and go in no time at all. But it also calls back to various earlier moments throughout the record and as a flowing, evolving piece, it is far more rewarding than just listening to the odd track would be. With all that being said, it still ended up feeling like a pleasant but perhaps a little uninspiring record in the end. Many of the songs are covers of other artists’ work and, while Willie ties them together well and strings everything into that flowing, evolving narrative, the fact is that stylistically, it feels quite generic and perhaps that slight lack of a unified songwriting voice doesn’t help it to become the completely coherent whole that the concept promises it to be. The production and performances from the band are excellent, managing to thread the needle between laid back and rhythmically tight perfectly, and Willie’s voice is in fine fettle, offering the everyman storyteller sound, presented in a controlled and coherent way. As someone with only a passing knowledge of country music, however, there didn’t seem to be a vast amount in this album that made it particularly special compared to a lot of similar music that came before or after this record and, interesting concept aside, this was one that was enjoyable enough without giving me any real reason to return. Time Of The Preacher - There’s a nice, gentle swagger to this. There’s nothing complex about it, but it does what it sets out to do pretty well. The performances are deft and well put together, despite the fact that it’s over not long after it’s really got going. I Couldn't Believe It Was True - He’s got a voice that sits really well between controlled and fluid. It’s got a lovely, organic tone too. The guitar playing here is lovely, and the interplay between the two lines is really nice. Again, it’s quite a fleeting little song and we’re on to the next one. Time Of The Preacher Theme - Which is a call back to the opener. It’s a touch plodding, but I think that works for it in this case, as it has a cool, lumbering attitude to it that’s quite pleasant. Medley: Blue Rock Montana / Red Headed Stranger - Pleasant stuff with some lovely loosely timed guitar playing that is quite evocative. Again, not too much to say about a nice little song that does its job in a minute and a half. Blue Eyes Crying In The Rain - This is so gentle and relaxed, like being sung a bed time story by an old codger in the corner of a dusty bar. The guitar playing is lovely, the lilt of his vocal is pretty too, and then, as with much of the album so far, it’s done. Just like that. Red Headed Stranger - Another entirely pleasant but also unspectacular tune. This one’s a bit longer form so it has a bit more time to settle in and develop itself. The little honky-tonk piano is nice and the whole thing has a nice, swung groove to it. Everything about it is well put together and fairly enjoyable, but it doesn’t really do anything to excite me. Time Of The Preacher Theme - Another quick callback to the opener. Just As I Am - That runs straight into this. Melodically, it’s nice enough and the counterpoint that passes between guitar and piano adds a nice depth and feel to that melody. It’s a touch meandering, but I think that’s kind of the point. Denver - Again, this almost feels like a snippet of a song, rather than a whole one. Nice, but over before it’s begun and swiftly moves on to… O'er The Waves - A melody that probably everyone knows by Juventino Rossas that’s been used on countless fairgrounds and in various media over the years. It’s got a nice swagger and the piano work is really nice. Down Yonder - Ah, a bit of pace. The band are super tight and this has a great, bouncing feel to it. It’s quite music hall in a way, and it’s nice enough, but it’s also quite repetitive and doesn’t really offer anything special, despite being less than two minutes long. Can I Sleep In Your Arms - Now the pace has dropped to a crawl. It’s pretty enough, but it feels very generic really. The piano solo section is very nice, and there’s a nice ebb and flow to the instrumentation and dynamic. But everything about it feels very familiar, from chord structure to melody, I can’t necessarily pick out what makes this stand out musically from hundreds of other songs of this style. But it was still quite an enjoyable listening experience. Remember Me - The swing and cadence of the rhythm here is really nice, and the guitar work is lovely. There’s a laid back fell, but enough pace to give things get up and go. The piano picks up nicely from the guitar too. It’s not going to be my favourite song of all time, but I enjoyed this for what it was and the performances all round were really enjoyable. Hands On The Wheel - The pace and restraint give this a subtle, but enjoyable feel. As with much of the album, it does feel quite generic and doesn’t offer a vast amount of musical development, despite the slow build of the instrumentation. Willie’s vocal is really nice, to be fair and the performances are great. But it’s not vastly interesting. Bandera - A nice, chilled and quite pretty piece with some lovely piano playing to round things off. Not much to say apart from that it’s really well balanced and has a great bittersweet feel to it.

just not my jam man

I really loved this album. It's an invitation to slow down and savor the simple things in life. Willie's voice is lovely, and the instrumentation is the perfect accompaniment.

I did rather enjoy this. I could quite happily have put this on, loaded up Red Dead Redemption 2 and rode a horsey through the mountains.

I can’t believe I’m going to give a country album more than a 2 but I found this really engaging and enjoyable, and just goes to show that it isn’t worth writing off a whole genre like I may have been quick to do in the past. I felt this had much more in common with traditional folk than some of the other tosh you get coming out of Nashville. The stripped back vibes really sold this to me as it put so much further emphasis on the lyrics and delivery. The percussion was subtle but enough to carry it where needed. I liked the bluegrass flourishes when they were added but songs like ‘can I sleep in your arms’ - simple songs at their heart - were the ones I found most enjoyable here. It’s a shame that this style of country has generally fallen out of favour.

On se moque de la "musique moderne" en disant que toutes les chansons récentes ont les mêmes suites d'accords ou les mêmes motifs de batterie, mais là c'est un albums où quasiment toutes les chansons ont la même mélodie stéréotype de la musique country.

I enjoyed this album. There is a strange similarity within these songs that also reminds me of other Willie songs.

Fine meh

Nice old school country with more impressive guitar playing than I would have expected.

Id love listening to this in a cowboy bar back in the Gold Rush ngl

Great listen. No skips

Great album ..taking us back to simpler times??

just so lovely. i have a boomer dad that smokes weed so i'm not totally alien to willy, but i don't think i've ever sat and listened to this one. first new to me thing that i liked on the list so far. i listened to it three times today. i love the instrumental interludes, the bach rendition. i love willy's voice, i love his guitar. i love how every song seems like it just flows into the next. i love when it borrows tennessee waltz and red river valley and turns into something else. listening to this feels like you're at a friday night party at an elk's lodge in heaven. fave track hands on the wheel

Just pure, clear straightforward solo folk-country. Willie’s got a beautiful voice. Sad storytelling. Won’t go back to it often, but I liked this quite a bit. Must-listen #353.

Willie does not stretch any limits in any sense here. Songs are all sort of within the same headspace of calming mood pieces, and everything is pleasant without striking any memorable chords.

Love a bit of country but not its best offering.

A concept country album sounds ominous but I was pleasantly surprised. Thr stripped-back feel chimes with my perception of country music.

Country classics

Fairport's album yesterday was like coming home and putting your comfy slippers on. In comparison this one is like popping round to your slightly odd neighbour's place: not offensive at all, occasionally interesting, but you really don't want to spend any more time there than absolutely necessary. A somewhat intolerant 2. 2*

My first foray into country music, and I can see the appeal. He has a great voice, it's a chill, calming, poetic sound and I think it would be amazing to listen to live, in a country bar in Dallas. Top Tracks: Time of a Preacher, I couldn't believe it was true, Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain, Can I sleep in your arms. Red headed ranger Somewhere between a 3 and 4 so far. 18th studio album is crazy btw. Very strong 3.8 Don't cross me.

is this the best he does?

Really peaceful album, good story telling but the charm wore off on the 2nd listen for me

2,5

I am by no means American, so this is really, really not a style of music I'd normally go for. Most likely because the type of country I'm actually exposed to is overproduced and very generic. I have to say I have a weak spot for Willie Nelson though. I don't know enough about him to know if he's actually as authentic as he sounds. This was a great way to spend half an hour though.

Muy country, no estuvo mal

Æ har hørt overraskanes lite på Willie Nelson, egentlig, og det helt uten grunn, for æ like det jo veldig godt når æ gjør det?

me sinto vagando pelo deserto cok meu cavalo e um chapéu em minha cabeça desbravando o velho oeste sozinho

big lenda do country teria um vinyl desse álbum

Enjoyable enough

This was new to me but I enjoyed it - very much in my musical comfort zone but no bad thing

New to me, very very good indeed. 4 stars, thank you for sharing RGP. Tom.

Pasó tan desapercibido que terminó y no me acordaba que estaba escuchando

I loved this! I really admire the simplicity but perfection of these songs, and the songwriting is just beautiful. Anyways, this is exactly what I want when I'm listening to country. Favorites: Time of the Preacher, I Couldn't Believe It Was True, Down Yonder, Can I Sleep in Your Arms, Bandera

In contention for best country album ever made, which means it's in contention for best album ever made period. The country mythos meets the man in a perfect blend of songwriting, storytelling, and mythmaking. My only problem is I wish some of the songs were longer.

Would be a lovely album to fall asleep to - lots to hold on to lyrically but unfortunately very little to hold on to musically. Special shoutout to the little Bach minuet in there - wish we had more of that energy.

Not much going on instrumentally here, which is almost never enjoyable to me. Shame as I’ve liked most of the country records I’ve had so far.

I didn't get into it.

Not a fan of country music. But his voice is like a well played violin and I can listen to that with contentment. A calming album.

I'm not generally a fan of country, but Willie is definitely a standout and one of the few artists of the genre that I enjoy... in limited quantities.

This album was a bit too mellow for me without being super pleasant to listen to. I feel like Johnny Cash has a better blend there but I know Nelson probably isn’t going for the same thing

Listened previously. Expectations: High - Verdict: Masterpiece - The realisation of a mythic version of country music that ticks every box. It's sparse, twangy, heartfelt and catchy in every moment. Wonderful album from start to finish.

Old school country album with Willie’s classic voice. Short and sweet. I think it clocks in a little over 30 minutes. 3.1/5.0

Love this album! Love Willie!

I thought this was pretty good actually. Maybe because I enjoy Sturgil Simpson Sturgill and Jason Isbell and Charlie Crockett today this is the origin story...It’s a masterclass in doing more with less: a sparse, haunted, quietly rebellious record that helped define outlaw country and proved that country music could be cinematic without being overproduced. Good stuff Willie!

See I love country when it sounds like this

Very evocative of sitting around a campfire trading tunes and Willie Nelson is an icon but… it’s just sooo slow 😭

This album was pleasant but for me felt flat and didn't give me anything to be excited about. I can hear why people enjoy this album - storytelling and simple vocal without oversinging. Unfortunately I didn't connect with this.

This is more the type of country that I'm likely to enjoy. Even still, it's kinda a sleepy record. Solid, but not something I'd really go back to.

Super melancholic, can really feel the yearning and sadness. Imagine listening to this in the middle of the desert under the starry skies.

I'm not really into the majority of music in the country genre, but I do have an appreciation for the storytelling the genre contains. This album in particular is an excellent example of that. Every song seamlessly weaves together a man's story of heartbreak, anger, revenge, sadness, and acceptance. These types of concept albums are a much more immersive and cohesive listen.

3/5. Some solid country music which keeps its arrangements and production nice and tight, there aren’t a ton of extra flourishes but there also doesn’t need to be on an album like this. Nelson’s vocals are solid throughout, I especially love when he brings in some harmonies on “Blue eyes crying in the rain.” Though I’ll admit I don’t see myself coming back for a full album listen of this one anytime soon, but there are a number of great individual tracks.

this was actually kind of good maybe i was wrong about johnny cash

It’s okay, even though I don’t like country - it’s very soothing in a way!

uh i didnt expect this to be as serene as it was? beautiful lyricsm, vocals, calm atmosphere and just all together wonderous to be honest. in a world of yelling country fuckers a dime a dozen, be more willie.

dios después de la segunda canción, todo suena igual...aunque no lo odio. El title track está cool.

I grew up where Willie is demi-deific, I was always going to like this album. Its really good, its not perfect, its what country music should be. 4/5

"Red Headed Stranger" is a soft, mellow country album. Although it fits into the outlaw country genre, it is not as out there as some of the other albums of the genre, but rather is mature and simple, telling a tale of a preacher looking for redemption. It's a fine album, although it lacks an element that elevates it to the higher echelons.

Luv willie

3,5

Outstanding

Great voice but bored of the album. Literal one trick pony and same, slow sound all the way through. 2/5

Yeeehaw 🤠, pedazo de álbum me re gustó la vibe sureña

Willie's voice is always a 5.

felt a little bit too lullabyish for me

I love that raggedy cowboy. As with most concept albums, the concept is lost by the halfway mark, but who cares. Red Headed Stranger is a lovely little gem. My complaint is that many of the “songs” are really 90 second instrumental tracks, which are great, but unfit for my playlist-heavy lifestyle. I totally love the instruments on this though, and Willie’s sparse, tender lyrics. My favorites are Can I Sleep in Your Arms for the harmonies and that closing instrumental, Hands on the Wheel for lyrics, and Time of the Preacher Theme or the Blue Rock medley just because.

The storutelling is very good but counrty is just not for me

This kinda country music does nothing for me, even though I can appreciate that this is a good version of the genre.

I really didn’t expect to like this as much as I did… chilled out great story telling. 3.5 stars and not sure which way to round.

I liked it!

story album, go back and listen

a little too folky, have to be in the right mood for it

not my usual listen, but a bittersweet collection of reflections and memories of times and people passed

Nice solid Willie either you like it or you love it

Meh

cool 3/5

not for me, but I get why people like it

A pleasant listen, but Willie's sleepy tones didn't really stand out - lots of enjoyable sounds though.

to jest country jakiws n bd sluchac lol

I really don’t care much for Country and/or Western, but it seems disrespectful to give a stoner icon like Willie less than a 3

Mr. Nelson, I owe you apology, I wasn’t really familiar with your game.

Americana to the max! Enjoyable

Pleasant enough, but won't be returning.

Fav- blue eyes crying in the rain 4/5

Not really a country guy but I've always found myself enjoying Willie Nelson. The album played the Time of the Preacher 3 times, which I found odd, but also special shout-out to Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain.

6/10 - Didn't dislike it - would enjoy sitting in the sun with this on in the background. But not my cup of tea Fav Tracks: Red Headed Stranger Heard before? ---–- ❌ Saved a Song? ----- ❌ Saved Album? --–-- ❌ Will Listen Again? -- ❌

Quietly colossal is how I would describe this album. Totally understated, straightforward instrumentation and structure, but at the same time summoning this grand moral narrative, complete with a reoccurring Theme. It's literary, it's traditional yet also somehow mold-breaking. It's my favorite country album by a long shot (though I'm admittedly not the most well versed in the genre). 5/5 from me on this one.

Willie er góður kall. Þessi plata er falleg og ljúf.

Never been a Willie Nelson listener, but this album is absolutely beautiful, and a worthy listen for anyone who appreciates beauty🎶

delightful and peaceful

not my style, too country for me

WHY are there multiple versions of Time of the Preacher on the same album???? I don't know if it's just me, but all of the songs lowkey sound the same. Maybe it's just country music. All of the songs feel like continuations of each other, which might be the idea of it and I'm just judging for no reason. Country music will be country music. The songs are really short. I don't really feel a particular way listening to these, but that might have something to do with my doing homework. I like Blue Eyes Crying; I think that one stood out to me, but that also happens to be the one I was listening to while writing this instead of doing my homework. No way there was just a random instrumental track. Maybe I'm just being a negative nancy. Wait. As I get more tired or something, and as the album progresses, I'm sorta catching a vibe. Woah. Do I like country music? Overall, it wasn't INCREDIBLE and didn't really tug on my heart strings, but it wasn't terrible.

Десь на трійку. Мелодійно, але без вау-ефекту

very pretty! i feel like i could appreciate it even more if i had paid stronger attention to the lyrics but i enjoyed what i heard. Fav track: Bandera

solid

Not really my thing but its pleasant

Pretty good listen. Makes for good coffee shop music. Interesting to learn that Willie Nelson was part of the "outlaw" group of country singers who wanted to break away from the traditional Nashville sound, which was very glossy/produced.

Maybe not the best pick for a grey day where I'm struggling to not feel down, and everything starts to blur together by the end of the album. But, I'm still giving this a low 4 because I have a feeling that -in the right frame of mind- I'd really love it.

Anything by Willie is worth a listen!

Another short album, great. it does lose me in the concept, not sure what is going on. It is good county music though. 3 Heard before? No Owned: No: 70/282 (25%) Will I get: No

No es de mi gusto. Pero la historia detras la hace interesante.

It was okay - Meh, I guess

Neat little concept album and his voice is great

This album is by far the best experience that I have had with a Willie Nelson album. Feels pure and organic. Definitely a vibe.

I was pleasantly surprised by this. Country is really not my genre, but this album was really nice. I think it is mostly due to Willie Nelsons voice that carries his emotions open wide. Also, I like the tempo and tone that Nelson wants to convey to the listener. The music is best where there’s only a classic guitar and Nelson’s voice. When the tempo is turned up and piano comes in on a later song the music lost it’s magic a little. Favourites: Time of The Preacher, Blue Eyes Crying In The Rain, Red Headed Stranger.

Certainly his best album. Shotgun WIllie was too commercial, and Phases and Stages was too theatrical. Both of those albums are very good, but Red Headed stranger walks the fine line just about perfectly and stands above them. It's a concept album both full of beautiful interludes that lead into spectacular poetic displays of country and folk. Like a true outlaw, Willie stands against all odds, with only his guitar and occasional piano or bass following, laying an emotional tale of an outlaw on the run. What's also great is how he managed to tell the story in quick little snippets. Only three songs pass the 3-minute mark, but they all tell a story that an album twice the length struggles to.

Simple, delightful, but a bit sleepy.

Actually good music, it’s a surprise to be sure

Wow. Had never heard this album in full before. So good. Country classic.

Definitely better than the average country music in here

Just a pleasant album. ‘Over The Waves’ just reminded me musically of ‘Blue Moon of Kentucky’

This was straight-up country which, normally, wouldn’t be my thing. This was short enough - and cohesive enough - to be tolerable.

I was not very impressed that the only other Willie Nelson album on this list was just cover versions, given the length of this guy's career and the many albums he's released. At least this had some original material. The really pared down instrumentation really seemed to suit the story telling, and while I am never going to be the biggest country fan, I did appreciate how "wild west" western this was. I am crying out for a 2.5 here, but am going to be generous and round up. 3/5

God

No me molesto la onda del álbum, pero había como 4 versiones de la misma canción, parecía un soundtrack que en la película queda bien, pero que después nadie lo escucharía solo.

Me gustó mucho la verdad. Una mezcla de folk y country.

Great storytelling, quality music, legendary performer.

A very good album. It's not my favorite of his but I have listened to it at least once a year since I first heard it five years ago .

willie nelson has a great voice but tragically did sing abt killing a wife so -1 point

Genuinely a nice listen, it’s the kind of melodic folk country I actually like quite a bit- before it goes all beer for my horses

Gozado a las 3 de la mañana mientras juegas Stardew Valley

Lo re disfruté la verdad

heerlijk!

erg fan van outlaw country maar dit was niet m'n favoriete willie nelson

3/5 - Virkelig nice stripped back album til en stille aften! Jeg må jo bare erkende at jeg tror de sidste to dage har været en øjnåbner for mig og måske min opvågning til country. Kan igen rigtig godt lide historiefortællingen og guiataren. Og så må jeg jo bare anerkende at jeg er en sucker for concept-albums. Selvom lyrikken er nice, står instrumentalerne også skarpt og trækker ikke længere ud end de behøver. Observationer: Jeg kunne rigtig godt lide hvordan starten af side to begynder med at lægge op til dans i sangen Denver, hvorefter to instrumentaler følger <3 Standouts: Time Of The Preacher Blue Eyes Crying In The Rain Hands On The Wheel

It was good. My favorites were Red Headed Stranger and Remember Me. Overall, I would give it a 3.8/5! 🫤👍

Une voix à la James Taylor sur de country qui se transforme en folk. I couldn’t believe it was true

This record emits the nostalgic feeling of sitting in a living room of an old split level on a Saturday evening, and Willie is just singing you songs by the fireplace. Incredibly pleasant. Timelessly cool. It takes a ton of balls to put out a record with this little production. This album is so different than pretty much anything else I’ve heard on this list. I don’t think all the songs are out of this world. But the vibe of this record is truly unbeatable. 5/5

Good old Willie — a bit too twangy for me, but love his voice and general vibe. Stardust (still to come for us) is a much better album.

Imagine what these songs would sound like if they were fully sketched out!

He has a lovely voice. And the songs are good. Nice and short too which is a blessing as I'm not a huge fan of country. This is so much better than the dire vanity project 'Stardust' album I've already listened to. He has a good reputation so I'm glad I don't think he's complete crap any more.

estuvo bien no es muc che o mi estilo pero me gustó

It's difficult to sound vulnerable and like a total badass at the same time, but Willie Nelson threads that needle here. Less is often more, and the sparse instrumentation and the simple yet evocative lyrics make a great pairing.

The 70s must have been a mellow time. Maybe it’s me but each song feels like a cliche from an old movie, but I guess Willie didn’t first. Good for him.

it is relic of it's time for sure

Ya sabemos que me gusta la música country, este disco me gustó pero siento que es para un mood demasiado específico, tipo estar muy tranquilo. Además no me gustó que hay canciones que son solo instrumental, aparte de que las canciones se vuelven repetitivas.

No me molesto tanto escucharlo. Pero no me gusta el country

BÃO ALBUM DE COWBOY

Aoo carpeado

Kyl tää kantri on melkein automaattinen 1-2 aina. Ei oikee jaksa lähteä. Laitetaan willie nelsonin nimelle kuitenkin 2

"I'm drowning in a river of whiskey". Tekis iteki mieli tän paskan jälkeen

Näitä on taas tuhat samanlaista levyä maailmassa, ja kaikki yhtä kuraa.

Ei nää kantrirenkutukset vaan lähe vaikka kuinka ois legendarya. Ehkä vielä joskus.

Vähän löysällä munalla läpsyttelyä. Ei kyllä lähtenyt.

I liked this one. My favorite was Can I Sleep In Your Arms. I added it to my playlist oldies and goldies. It could be a sweet song to be married with.

A nice sleepy album that I can see being nice if you are in the mood.

Red Headed Stranger de Willie Nelson no logró conectar conmigo. Entiendo la importancia del country y su influencia en muchos otros géneros, pero simplemente no es lo mío. El estilo es demasiado minimalista para mi gusto y, aunque sé que tiene valor dentro de su contexto, no encontré nada que realmente me atrapara o me hiciera querer volver. Al final, fue una experiencia que no me dejó mucho. Prefiero otros géneros. 1/5

No me gustó, suena bien pero es muy antiguo y no es mi estilo

Wasn’t expecting to enjoy this one as much as I did! Mr Willie has a real comforting voice, dead nice. Will likely not listen to this one again so sadly cannot give Mr Willie more than a 3

Didnt wana even listen to this

Pretty good.

Really liked this album. Willie is a national treasure!

While I've never been a fan of country music, my dad is. I have memories of being a small kid sitting in the back seat of the car and hearing music like this. Willie Nelson has a great voice and there is some fine guitar playing on here. And though I am not likely to return to this album, there were some really nice moments.

Heading in, I was only familiar with Willie through, admittedly, Beyonce. That to say I’m not particularly interested in country music generally, but I quickly came to understand why he’s loved, though, with this project. The music lets the story take the lead here, but not without some beautiful instrumental breaks and interludes that aid it. A brilliant concept constructed in a manner I’ve never seen before. With it being written around a cover surrounded by a mix of others and his own inclusions, all wonderfully executed by Willie, this is a special country album. 2 listens Favorite Track: Can I Sleep in Your Arms

Expectation: -> Ah Willie. An American icon, treasure. I am truly thankful for his influence on modern country artists, though do not believe I will prefer much of his own music. After listening: -> Much respect to the man and his staying power. There is comfort and familiarity with his singing voice/style. Would love to hear this overhead while dining at my favorite country/Western restaurant. It is quite slow and plodding and minimalist, though peaceful. Took a few spins through AND the right mood and mindset to appreciate, but I got there. Track ranking: Sleep Hands Blue Eyes Remember Bandera Preacher / Theme Medley / Red Couldn't Denver Yonder Just O'er

I'll be honest, I listened to 2 songs. This genre is NOT for me

3 de 5 Con un sonido muy austero y sobrio, contando una historia con tintes de drama trágico y redención, William Nelson crea lo que se podría decir como “disco concepto”, el cual, nos sumerge y nos hace partícipes en la vida de “El Extraño”, creando complicidad y armonía. Si no se tiene algún acercamiento con el género de el country, podría llegar a ser algo aburrido y muy lineal. A destacar: Track 2 - I Couldn’t Believe It Was True Track 8 - Just as I Am Track 10 - O’er the waves Track 11 - Down Yonder Track 13 - Remember Me (When the candle lights are gleaming) Track 14 - Hands on the Wheel Track 15 - Bandera

Preferred it to Stardust, probably still around 3.5 though. Don't think I can give it 4.

Came to country later in my musical journey but man Willie makes it easy to love. Beautiful album.

A beautiful, sparse love letter to the American west. Side B struggles a bit, but it's a great listen regardless.

A great listen

okay willie…

You can't hang a man for killin' a woman who's tryin' to steal your horse.

Not into C&W at all

No me gusta el estilo de la música.

Awful in so many ways. Here’s four: his awful voice, idiotic lyrics, ridiculous theme, and the melting of jazz guitar and country.

Would buy

C&W. Standard classic sound. Why the repeated Time of the Preacher theme? Best track - I Couldn't Believe..., Down Yonder, Remember Me 3 stars - nothing to write home about but fine for C&W

like tbh high 3 but im rounding up bc i cant keep giving 3s

enjoyed this, love his voice

Wow, what a wonderful find. I'd never had picked up this record if not for this challenge. The elegance of the instrumentation is stunning. Nothing is added if not necessary. And somehow, the instrumentation that is added surprises and entrances. So tasteful.

Pretty, sweet and pastoral

This is some pretty great Willie Nelson! One of the things I especially love about these songs is his fantastic guitaring. The sparse simplicity of the instrumentation really let's you hear the all the touches of the guitar.

This was really lovely. I love how old timey the songs sound, and the simplicity of it added to the beauty. Perfect food for the soul, great stuff Willie.

Classic Willie, once again redefining what country could be, while still retaining the essence of country. And in true outlaw fashion, he made the album he wanted, not the one he was told to make. Just a man, a guitar, and a story. Brilliant.

It was good not my thing though

Amazing album. It's just me and Willie sitting by a campfire, sharing a whiskey bottle as he sings me a story. It's so comfortable.

Extremely enjoyable, tight outlaw country album with evocative lyrics making it an easy relisten

Not my thing.

Willie out here confirming that I like country that’s pre-9/11.

It's fine, for country music, but not my jam.

Baš teška dosada, ne paše mi čak ni na kišno ponedjeljno jutro. Kužim da je bio bitan, ali brate smaraš. 2/5, 3/10

Ik vind dat country muziek veel is gestagneerd in het genre. Willie Nelson laat zien hoe het wel moet. Gewoon een cowboy met een gitaar. De country muziek is tegenwoordig richting pop gegaan en in alle verkeerde manieren. Dit album vond ik wel goed. Beter gaat bij mij het genre niet scoren denk ik. Ook is het wel lekker om deze nog na werk te fietsen als je overprikkeld bent. Dit album zou ik een hoge 3 sterren geven of een lage 4 sterren. Het probleem is dat het op een gegeven moment te veel hetzelfde is en het dan lastig is om te blijven focussen op de muziek

Je kan het bijna geen muziek noemen, zo minimalistisch. Verhalen vertellen op melodie. Het hoeft niet ingewikkeld te zijn.

Ik word er niet warm of koud van, t genre pakt me totaal niet, tis vrij kaal en simpel gehouden maar vind het verder moeilijk om iets inhoudelijks of zinnigs over te zeggen, ik vond het oprecht een saai album.

One of my absolute favorite singers and songwriters. Its hard to find words for what Willie means to me. His singing style, the Spanish guitars that also sound like jazz guitars. Baby Sister Bobbie playing rag time blues on the piano. The whole family band is just so on point. Willie's writing and vocals. I love the storytelling of this record, I love that he kind of attempted a concept album and it halfway works, but its still kind of a perfect album. I remember listening to "The Red Headed Stranger" in the car with my family growing up and my mom hating it. Saying things like "Willie can't sing!" She's absolutely wrong in that take. "Blue Eyes Crying In the Rain" is one of my favorite Willie songs. I listen to it at any point, and I'm all in. All of the sad love songs are so good. (Remember Me, Can I Sleep in Your Arms, Denver). I love the gospel songs on this record (Time of the Preacher, I Couldn't Believe it Was True, Hands on the Wheel). I love that this album is kind of a sneaky jazz record. So many moments where the bass is walking, the guitar is soloing or the piano is going places. This is an American classic. God bless Willie Nelson, may he never die.

Charming enough, but it's pretty tough for country to get more than a 3 from me.

It's all the same after short time...

I just don't see the appeal here. Every song, musically, and lyrically, just bleeds right on into the next one over and over again. And it's not good music, either. It's incredibly simple, repetitive chords under "oh no I'm sad, let's go murder the woman who made me sad, oh no I'm still sad"

Love a good concept album

good and short

little too croony.

2.2 Definitely not my thing, but it didn’t grate on my eardrums the way some country musics does. I can see why people would like, I just don’t! But you can’t fault talent and he can definitely write and can definitely sing.

Bored af

I’m really not a country guy, but outlaw country definitely intrigues me. It seems far more authentic and meaningful than the mindless pickup-trucks-and-blue-jeans garbage an unsettling number of people froth over today. This album definitely confirmed those suspicions for me. Willie had a pretty beautiful voice, and the album kept me fairly engaged from top to bottom, even though the arrangements were, like, comically sparse and the sonic palette was extremely limited. Still, the pictures he paints and the mood he sets here were pretty striking to me, and I was amazed to learn how insanely successful this album was outside of my little music bubble, which I'm currently looking to expand...

Couldn't finish it, it's just the same low tempo dull as dishwater western waltz all the way through, honestly couldn't tell where one song ended and the next one started

Definitely one of my favorite country albums. It's definitely one of his most popular albums and has solidified it's place in music history.

I really enjoyed the music and singing on this, but I found it hard to focus on the story being told in the lyrics. I kept tuning out, which made the album overall sound very samey. I think I would have enjoyed it a lot more if I connected with the lyrics.

Listening session: april 5th, while getting ready in the morning Listened to before: no Thoughts: so this is my second Willie Nelson album in four days, which is a bit much for someone who dislikes country music…. I have to say that I liked the other album better because those were all covers instead of true country songs Favourite tracks: Blue Eyes Crying In The Rain & Bandera

Very enjoyable listen.

Baustelle, Gerstetten, Deutschland. Tolles Album, stabiler Dude.

Linda melodía, muy country, aburrido 2 estrellas

Like a warm time with an old friend, despite never having heard this record before.

3.5

Pleasantly surprised. I didn't expect to be into this, but it was a really enjoyable listen.

Can't go wrong with Willie, he is a natural storyteller

a nice relaxing album, although country isn’t my thing

I'm really not that into country, even Willie Nelson.

This came up on the day I took a trip to the country and it was the perfect soundtrack.

What a surprise! Loved this album and all the story telling, played it twice back to back🙂

Down Yonder was fun, but overall a little too slow. His voice is a classic, but meh.

3/27/26 - this might have been my favorite album of the journey so far. All the songs blended together but I liked the sound and it was fun. Top Song - no clue but they were all good

9.5/10

Good

Before listening: Here we are, possibly the least familiar genre for me. I don’t think I ever heard a song by Willie Nelson. But I love story telling in music so I’m looking forward. Post listening: I guess it’s good. Someone might like it very much. But I feel absolute nothing about this album. I like when albums/songs tell stories but this story did nothing for me. And delivery missed me. I didn’t hate it and I respect it for what it is. But I can’t event be bothered to relisten and pick highlights.

3/4

If country was more like this today, I’d take back every joke I’ve ever made about it. Very simple on the surface, but such a captivating and emotional listen from front to back. Just what I needed, since the only two country albums I’ve gotten so far, I haven’t liked much. Bonus points for fitting 14 tracks in ~30 minutes.

Red Headed Stranger has an iconic reputation, but the ultra‑stripped production leaves it feeling slow and flat. Not a bad country album — just a pretty dull one.

Willie Nelson is the shit yo. Gotta hear as much as you can.

Love his vibe

This is classic Willie Nelson this man is worshiped for a reason.

Didn’t dislike this as much as expected, reeaaallyyyy quick each song. Fav: Just as I am

always love

Standouts I Couldn't Believe it was True Bandera

I love this. Pared down but lovely sound. Every song, though simple, has little flourishes that elevate, little bits of piano or banjo. Classic country storytelling that doesn't dip too far into cliche. Its also really nice to have a great country artist with mostly progressive political views. You wouldn't guess from looking at him that he's a long time supporter of LGBTQ+ rights, wish there was more old country music (or music in general) that didn't require an internal discussion about art vs. artist. Love his version of "Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain". 27 second songs maybe don't translate to streaming, but I'll allow it. He definitely doesn't drag anything out. I Would really like to check this out on Vinyl, I'll bet it sounds really fantastic. The only song I don't love is "Down Yonder" a little hokey. It's one of the many short ones though, so no harm done. I'm going a little crazy and giving this 5 stars. I just really like it, and Willie Nelson is really cool.

Pleasant. I've not had great experience with country and this list so far. Was wondering if I just don't like country that much. This just felt nice though. Pure songwriting. No flashy production. Simple instrumentation. All just nice and tidy.

70’s Country ⭐️Can I Sleep In Your Arms

nice, slow and relaxing music, felling like in a western...

Latest episode in my evolving relationship to concept albums. This is a fundamentally different kind of thing to most of the other albums on the list. I enjoyed the story it tells but I can't imagine listening to it more than a couple of times. It's beautiful and elegantly made. The cowboy stuff does all feel a little silly to me, though.

Joda

Et par gullkorn, men ellers meh

so cute

Not for me

Fine.

Pretty stripped-down, with simple acoustic guitar and Nelson's signature voice. Easy to listen to.

Legend

feels like listening to my boyfriend explain the plot of a western he’s reading

I put off this album for so long because I got Kid Rock and Willie Nelson mixed up in my head. This certainly isn't Kid Rock

I thought this was going to make me feel like a cowboy, but it just made me think of cowboys occasionally while listening to it

I don’t like country music, but I’ll make an exception for Willie Nelson.

It’s not incredibly remarkable, but Nelson’s got such a calming voice. These cowboy songs just get me.

Beautiful

2.7

3/5 https://rateyourmusic.com/release/album/willie-nelson/red-headed-stranger/ It's pretty fun! I can't say I'm a country guy, so generally Willie Nelson's stuff annoys me a bit, but this I can handle. Also makes me want to play Red Dead Redemption.

Somehow, I don’t think I’ve ever listened to any Willie Nelson before, but I really enjoyed this album. I liked the storytelling and I find outlaw country of this era really interesting. I feel like I need to dig into some more of his discography and see what else I enjoy.

Nice

Just not really what I gravitate towards

I always want this album to be better. I love Willie and classic country, but it’s kinda just slightly different versions of the same song over and over. That being said, that one song is great.

It's the sweetest, most gentle country record one can imagine. If I liked country a little bit more that would be at least a 4 or maybe even 5.

Classic. Het hele album is goed, maar vooral het laatste gedeelte is perfect.

Y'know I liked this more than I thought I would for a Country album. Still not my taste at all but I could easily have this on in the background and be perfectly content.

nice

I'll take this over pop country any day but it's still not really my thing

Positivt överraskad

Är ingen countryskalle, men det här var ju bara för mysigt och oemotståndligt att dricka morgonkaffe till tyckte jag!

Går rakt in, han sjunger så satans fint.

Hyllat Shotgun Willie sen San Andreas. Legend! Och den här skivan. Sååå mysig 🥰

sant, rent, vackert!

Story time! Willie hade kunnat sjunga telefonboken och jag hade lyssnat. Här känns det som att vi sitter på nån saloon eller varför inte Willies ranch och röker lite gott medan Willie berättar om The good ol times. Små nyanser i sången och leverans gör att det ligger ett mörker och allvar över det hela, utan att det tippar över till trivialt. Sen kan man inte kan klandra en man som skjuter den som försöker sno ens ponny. Magisk i sin enkelhet. Ta bara fingertoppskänslan munspelet i Time of the preacher (första). För att inte tala om vilken gitarrist W. N är! Har i två års tid gjort halvhjärtade försök att lära mig spela och sjunga hela albumet. Svårt att hålla isär allt heheh

3.5 Very pleasant and easy to listen to. I like the second half more, the songs are a bit more complex, a bit more “full.” The first half is a lot of almost song shorts or wisps of ideas.

Wow, this one really surprised me! I have somewhat enjoyed some Willie Nelson stuff in the past, but only ever really on the level of appreciating it for what it is but not feeling all that strongly about it. But this particular album really did grab me, I love his storytelling abilites which was a huge part of what kept me so captivated, and his voice too is something that stands out more than you would think for this style of music.

I hear Willie Nelson, I hit 5 stars.

A gentle collection of lullabies Favourite track: Just as I am

Totally charmed by the simple arrangements and rich vocals. Lyrics stay away from country cliches. I knew Willie was prolific but would never have guessed this was his 18th album. Undiscovered gem (to me). 5/5

Voz agradável, mas um disco confuso. Não entendo o apelo dessas canções curtas e inconclusivas. As canções são simples demais pra deixar qualquer tipo de impressão duradoura. O nome Willie Nelson me é familiar, é conhecido, mas não sabia o que esperar, logo não criei nenhuma expectativa. Aí é que tá, não é um álbum ruim. Não odeio Country, acho um gênero que têm bastante a oferecer. Mas apesar de tudo, odeio a sensação de tédio, e infelizmente foi exatamente isso que senti ouvindo este álbum. Uma pena. Se for pra dizer algo positivo, posso dizer que é um álbum reconfortante. Em outras palavras, é uma escuta leve e descontraída, análoga à escutar histórias do vovô. Dou mérito à isso e às pessoas que gostam dessa pegada, mas não é pra mim. Prefiro algo mais engajante. 2/5

It was fine. Willie is fine. I appreciate his place in music history, if not his actual music, but wouldn’t seek it out.

I have made great strides in overcoming my intense cultural bias against country music but Willie will probably always be a bridge too far for me. Mainly because my Old Man absolutely hated Willie Nelson and would yell at the radio every single time "the Bedbug" came on.

Awful, couldn’t listen the whole way through

Yee haw

Not really for me but I like Willie’s voice

it's not my taste, it's a bit monotonous, but some people like it

Didn’t like

nice and calm

Heard this a while back and thought it was pretty good for a genre that's not really my thing. Came back to time of the preacher again and again.

Totally fine!

7/10