Back in March 2019, George Strait looked to expand his career in country music when he released his 30th studio album with Honky Tonk Time Machine. Taking fans on a journey through country music, the album produced songs like “Every Little Honky Tonk Bar” and “The Weight of the Badge.” Packed with thirteen songs on the album, the last was a tribute to Willie Nelson titled “Sing one with Willie.” Featuring Willie Nelson himself, Strait not only wrote the song about Willie but just last year, he got the chance to finally sing one with Willie.
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Taking over the Hollywood Bowl, fans packed the arena to watch Willie perform and to celebrate his 90th birthday. With the special concert featuring numerous stars, nothing compared to when Strait took the stage alongside the country icon. Simply walking on stage, Strait sat down beside Willie and shared a short interaction before jumping into “Sing One With Willie.”
With fans soaking in the atmosphere, the performance gained high praise with comments reading, “Willie’s circle of friends, spanning all those years… truly incredible. Thanks for posting.” Another person added, “The last Man standing. Thank you and happy birthday from all of us to you Willie! And many many more.”
[RELATED: Behind the Meaning of “Check Yes or No” by George Strait]
George Strait Receives Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award
Besides being a fan of Willie, Strait found himself in the same category when the 2024 CMA Awards decided to honor the singer with the Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award. Only handed out to a few artists like Dolly Parton, Kenny Rogers, and Johnny Cash, Strait said, “I want to thank the CMAs for adding my name to the incredible artists on the small list of recipients carrying the name of the icon Willie Nelson.”
During the awards, several country stars took the stage to perform hit songs from Strait’s discography. Showcasing the long list of hits he produced over the decades, the country singer thanked the CMAs and fellow artists for the massive honor. “I want to thank all these great artists who performed some of my songs that I’ve recorded over the years. It’s amazing to hear y’all do them. I’m so glad I got ’em before you.”
(Photo by Jason Kempin/Getty Images for A+E Networks)
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