Introduction
George Strait and Willie Nelson, two of country music’s most iconic figures, had never recorded a duet together until 2019. Despite their shared Texas roots and decades-long careers, a collaboration between the “King of Country” and the “Red Headed Stranger” had eluded fans for years. That changed with the release of “Sing One With Willie,” a heartfelt track featured on Strait’s 30th studio album, Honky Tonk Time Machine.
The song was co-written by Strait, Nelson, Strait’s son Bubba Strait, and producer Buddy Cannon. It reflects Strait’s long-held desire to collaborate with Nelson, acknowledging the many artists Nelson had worked with over the years and expressing Strait’s wish to “sing one with Willie.” The track opens with Strait reflecting on his career but acknowledging that there’s one major item he still needs to check off his bucket list: a duet with Willie Nelson. Nelson joins in midway through the song, giving a nod to his fellow Texan and making the dreams of country fans everywhere come true.
The first live performance of “Sing One With Willie” took place on January 12, 2019, during the “Willie: Life & Songs of an American Outlaw” tribute concert at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena. This event marked the first time the two legends shared the stage, much to the delight of the audience. The performance was a significant moment in country music, as it brought together two of the genre’s most influential artists for a historic collaboration.
Following the success of the live performance, Strait included the studio version of “Sing One With Willie” on his album Honky Tonk Time Machine, released on March 29, 2019. The album debuted at number four on the US Billboard 200 chart and received positive reviews from critics. The inclusion of “Sing One With Willie” added to the album’s acclaim and further solidified the song’s status as a memorable moment in country music history.
“Sing One With Willie” stands as a testament to the enduring friendship and mutual respect between George Strait and Willie Nelson. The song not only fulfilled a long-held wish for both artists but also provided fans with a timeless piece that celebrates the rich tradition of country music. Their collaboration, though years in the making, proved to be worth the wait, delivering a heartfelt and memorable addition to their illustrious careers.