Introduction
Listen to Willie Nelson’s Version of Toby Keith’s “Don’t Let The Old Man In”
Published May 2, 2025, by Amanda Tubbs
Toby Keith’s “Don’t Let The Old Man In” became one of the most moving country songs of 2023, providing a powerful backdrop to his return to the stage after battling stomach cancer. Originally written and released in 2018, the song didn’t immediately gain widespread attention but later surged in popularity, especially during the months leading up to his death. In fact, by October 2023, the song topped Billboard’s Country Digital Song Sales chart, and it became the final song Toby Keith performed live on television.
Meanwhile, Willie Nelson, another legendary figure in country music, added his own version of “Don’t Let The Old Man In” to his catalog. Released as part of his First Rose of Spring album in July 2020, Nelson immediately connected with the song. He was particularly moved by these lyrics:
Many moons I have lived and my body’s withered and worn,
Ask yourself how old you’d be,
If you didn’t know the day you were born.
At the time of recording, Nelson was 87, and the song resonated deeply with him. Despite his age, Nelson’s vibrant spirit and enduring career have earned him admiration for defying the typical limitations of age.
Interestingly, the song’s inspiration stemmed from a conversation Toby Keith had with Clint Eastwood. During a charity golf tournament in 2017, Keith was struck by Eastwood’s energy at 88 years old and asked how he maintained such a drive. Eastwood’s response was simple: “I just get up every morning and go out. And I don’t let the old man in.” That exchange sparked Keith’s songwriting process, and he later gifted the demo to Eastwood. The song made its way into Eastwood’s 2018 film, The Mule.
Listen to Willie Nelson’s soulful rendition of “Don’t Let The Old Man In” below!
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