Maryland Heights, Missouri
Willie
Is there another living American who is as beloved as Willie Nelson? Doubtful.
When we rolled into town folks were trying to figure out what brought us here. Well, friends is the answer. But Christopher Hagge asked if we were going to the amphitheater that turns out is ten minutes from where we are. We had no idea.
So gee, what’s going on over there, we wondered?
Holy Hank Williams, it’s WILLIE!!!
With permission granted to stay another night on the driveway, tix were purchased in a matter of minutes. And as it turns out, great seats—just about ten rows back on the floor—for reasonable prices. Maybe because it’s a Tuesday?
This is a super great part of being loosely nomadic. We can shift the schedule to take advantage of opportunities like this.
It was a great all-day lineup with Don Was, Sierra Hull, Stephen Wilson Jr., Lukas Nelson, and the Avett Brothers. A great warm summer afternoon of music, with Willie as the capper.
How was he?
The true answer is: 93 years old, no getting around that. You can tell this is sorta tough for him. He semi-talked through a lot of the songs, but with his trademark laconic phrasing.
But there were sparkles and flashes of Willie of old, and lots of proud exchanges between him and his talented sons. More than the music, it was about basking in the glow of a living legend.
A lot of love in that amphitheater tonight. Almost like a veneration. Earned. He’s not going to be with us much longer.
Thanks, Dad. Thanks, Willie.
I’m pretty teary-eyed thinking of my dad, who had Willie on the garage radio for as long as I can remember.
Early departure tomorrow… Memphis, here we come!