At 93, Willie Nelson is a legend in outlaw country music, famous for his cannabis advocacy and free-spirited views. Surprisingly, he once tried a “healthy” lifestyle, attempting a 10-day juice cleanse and running in cowboy boots. In his words, the juice cleanse was “horrible.”
Back in the early eighties, Willie and fellow musician Merle Haggard were known for living hard but also tried to stay fit. “We’d burn one down and run two miles in cowboy boots,” Willie recalled during a 2016 interview with Rolling Stone. This mix of excess and health shows their unique approach to life.
Willie might not have loved juicing, but he has embraced martial arts. He holds a fifth-degree black belt in Gongkwon Yusul and a second-degree black belt in taekwondo. This commitment to fitness is impressive, especially considering his age.
The bond between Willie and Merle goes back over five decades. They met in Nashville in the early sixties when Merle was invited to a poker game at Willie’s house. Over the years, they collaborated on several albums, including Pancho and Lefty in 1983 and Last of the Breed in 1987. Their friendship was built on shared experiences, including getting married young and the struggles they faced as musicians.
As we approach the tenth anniversary of Merle’s death, Willie is set to release his 78th album, Workin’ Man: Willie Sings Merle on November 7. The album will feature 11 classic songs written by Merle, paying tribute to a friend and fellow artist.
Willie’s musical journey began in 1962, and he faced many ups and downs. After a series of disappointing albums in the early seventies, he bought out his contract and moved to Austin, Texas. There, he reinvented his sound. His 1973 album, Shotgun Willie, was well-received, leading to the groundbreaking Red Headed Stranger in 1975, which secured his place in mainstream country music. Considered a masterpiece, it showcased his unique storytelling ability.
Fast forward to today, Willy is still performing and has no plans to retire anytime soon. He jokingly stated he’d retire only if he lost his beloved guitar, Trigger. This guitar has been with him since 1969 and is a big part of his musical identity.
In his book, The Tao of Willie: A Guide to Happiness in Your Heart, Willie shares, “One of the secrets to my sound is almost beyond explanation.” His connection with Trigger goes beyond just music; it’s about his legacy and authenticity.
As Willie continues his career while celebrating his friends and collaborators, he remains a symbol of resilience and passion in the music world. His journey is a testament to the power of music to connect people across generations. For those wanting to explore more about Willie’s life and career, check out his ongoing impact on country music and culture in articles on platforms like Rolling Stone and NPR.
For more information, you can read about music legends and their stories on NPR and Rolling Stone.
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Willie Nelson,Celebrity Health,Health & Fitness
