Austin City Limits Season 44 Episode 12
Austin City Limits
Season 44

Ep 12. Willie Nelson

  • January 26, 2019

In Austin City Limits season 44 episode 12, viewers are treated to a memorable performance by none other than music icon Willie Nelson. The show captures the essence of the country music legend with soulful renditions of some of his greatest hits.

The episode starts off with Willie Nelson taking center stage, strumming his Trusty guitar "Trigger", and launching into the first song of the night, "Whiskey River." It's a classic that gets the crowd on their feet, cheering and singing along. From there, the show rolls on, offering up a diverse selection of Nelson's most beloved songs.

Nelson is joined by some of his closest collaborators and friends to perform his various tracks. The special guests include rising country artist KACEY MUSGRAVES who delivers a stirring rendition of “Rainbow Connection,” a song made famous by Kermit the Frog. Lukas and Micah Nelson, the star's sons, also feature as musical guests. A highlight comes when Willie takes to the stage with them and performs a heartwarming family duet.

Throughout the performance, Willie Nelson's passion and connection to his music are evident as he sings. Nelson’s distinctive voice is the most remarkable part of the show. His tone, a nasal, soft, but tough sound, is as iconic as the songs he performs. At one point, he takes on "Georgia on My Mind," which segues into a larger tribute to the late, great Ray Charles. Nelson performs “What’d I Say” and, during a brief interlude, shares an anecdote about Charles, recounting the time when he first met him in the 1960s.

One of the most memorable tracks of the night is a re-imagining of the classic Neil Young song “Heart of Gold,” which becomes an upbeat, horn-heavy jam session. Nelson and the band give it a modern twist that is bound to get stuck in the listener’s head for days.

As the night draws to a close, Willie Nelson’s performance culminates in a grand finale that features everyone on stage, including the audience. In a touching tribute to Merle Haggard, Nelson leads the musicians and the audience in a rendition of “It’s All in the Movies,” with each performer taking a verse or chorus. And, of course, the show ends on a final note of “On The Road Again," Willie’s signature tune. It's a fitting conclusion for a night of beautiful country music- with Willie at the helm, leading everyone on a joyous journey.

Overall, the Austin City Limits season 44 episode 12 featuring Willie Nelson is a must-see for all country music fans. The episode captures the essence of the legendary musician's talent and passion. The show boasts a generous mix of Nelson's classic hits with delightful and surprising collaborations that keep the audience on their toes all throughout. Produced and performed with a love for the genre and the man himself, the episode is a fitting tribute to one of the greatest living legends of music. For those that are fans, this is a must see.

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Description
  • First Aired
    January 26, 2019
  • Language
    English