There's no doubt about it: Willie Nelson is a true American legend.
And, at age 79 Nelson is still touring and entertaining audiences throughout the nation and around the world.
Last night we traveled to the TD
Bank Performing Arts Center (actually the Washington Township High School auditorium) to see Nelson perform before a sold-out crowd.
Willie and his five-piece group were on stage for more than 90 minutes. Through at least the first four or
five songs we wondered if Willie was going to get up to speed with the music. He pretty much recited the lyrics to each song in a clipped, staccato fashion that required you to listen very closely to figure out what he was saying -- and he was saying more than he was singing.
But then Willie suddenly seemed to hit his stride and the hits just came rolling forth: You Were Always On My Mind, Blue Eyes Crying In The Rain, For All The Girls I Loved Before, Crazy and many of the other songs one wants and expects to hear from this extraordinary talent. He did not disappoint.
During the catchy tune Mama, Don't Let Your Babies Grow Up To Be Cowboys, Willie had the audience singing along with him and even for him at various times.
It's well known that one of the secrets of Nelson's appeal is his tendency to sing a few beats behind the music. And those few extra moments that you spend waiting for each line of the lyrics help to build anticipation.
To say that Willie Nelson is unique is an understatement.
After the last song Nelson hung around
to shake hands with audience members, sign autographs and pose for pictures. He genuinely seems to thrive on the performance and the
live interplay with the audience. He seems invigorated by it.
How many performers are this energetic at such an advanced age? In fact, how many would even remember the words to the songs?
If Willy and his traveling troubadours ever come your way, be sure to get your tickets early and enjoy the show.
You won't regret it.
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