Introduction
“Ready to Roar” by Willie Nelson is an upbeat track from his 2018 album “Last Man Standing.” Released just days before Nelson’s 85th birthday, the song embodies a carefree spirit, celebrating the joy of unwinding after a long work week. It stands out as a Western swing-flavored tune with Nelson’s distinctive vocals and acoustic guitar playing, reflecting his enduring vitality and zest for life.
The song’s lyrics depict a working-class individual eagerly anticipating the weekend, highlighting themes of resilience and celebration. Lines like “I’ve been pickin’ this up and puttin’ that down / Tired of my boss bossin’ me around” resonate with anyone who has ever looked forward to letting loose on a Friday night. The chorus, “Ready to roar, ready to roar / It’s Friday night and I’m ready to roar,” captures the essence of this anticipation and release.
“Ready to Roar” is part of Nelson’s album “Last Man Standing,” which explores themes of mortality, aging, and the loss of friends, juxtaposed with lighter tracks like this one that emphasize living life to the fullest. Alongside the release of the song, Nelson also introduced a new strain of cannabis called “Last Man Standing,” reinforcing his reputation as an advocate for the cannabis community and his multifaceted approach to life and art.
The music video for “Ready to Roar” offers an intimate look into the studio recording sessions, showing Nelson and his band in their element, enjoying the process of making music. This video is part of a series of releases from the album, each providing a glimpse into Nelson’s creative process and his ongoing commitment to his craft.
“Ready to Roar” exemplifies Willie Nelson’s ability to blend poignant themes with lighthearted, energetic music, maintaining his relevance and appeal across generations. The song is a testament to his enduring spirit and his ability to connect with listeners through relatable, heartfelt storytelling (Wide Open Country) (The Boot) (Taste of Country).