Few singer/songwriters in history have achieved more than Willie Nelson. The 90-year-old music legend is still touring, writing, and recording, determined to pursue his passions until the end.
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With such an incredible list of hit songs, collaborations, achievements, awards, and accolades to his name, it’s no surprise that Nelson has had enough material to fill multiple self-authored books over the past two decades.
On October 31, Nelson will publish Energy Follows Thought: The Stories Behind My Songs, which shares the inspiration and stories behind 160 of his favorite tracks. Thankfully, there are plenty of engaging past releases from Nelson to enjoy while we await his next book.
[RELATED: Willie Nelson and More Discuss the Craft of Singing in New Book]
From a reflection on life on the road to an intimate memoir, here are five Willie Nelson books every music fan should read.
1. Willie Nelson’s Letters to America
Complied under the guidance of Turk Pipkin, Letters to America is indeed what it sounds like. Through a series of handwritten letters, Nelson contemplates his life and how his path was paved by those who came before him. From his own personal heroes and family members to the country’s founding fathers, Nelson uses these short prompts to nod at those who helped shape him as a person and artist.
2. The Tao of Willie: A Guide to the Happiness in Your Heart
This 2006 release gives surprising insight into the beliefs and ideas that have guided Nelson through the decades. This light but insightful read adds context to Nelson’s caring and welcoming persona, from his humble beginnings to his connection to Chinese philosophies.
3. Me and Sister Bobbie: True Tales of the Family Band
Nelson’s tight-knit bond with his late sister and longtime touring pianist, Bobbie Nelson, is at the core of this powerful 2020 memoir. Co-written by the talented siblings, Me and Sister Bobbie is a celebration of their unique friendship and shared love of music.
4. Roll Me Up and Smoke Me When I Die: Musings from the Road
This lighthearted look at life on the road, co-written with fellow Texas-born songsmith Kinky Friedman, hit bookstore shelves in 2012. If you enjoy The Tao of Willie, you’ll enjoy the similar story-telling style and theming found in Roll Me Up and Smoke Me When I Die a mix of reflections on everything from his most significant career milestones to special moments spent with friends and family.
5. It’s a Long Story: My Life
One of the most engaging music memoirs ever published, It’s a Long Story: My Life, finds Nelson candidly looking back at his incredible life. Although he takes readers through his personal and creative achievements, he also acknowledges his many missteps and what he’s learned from it all. Released in 2015 and co-written by David Ritz, It’s a Long Story should be a must-read for any longtime Willie Nelson fan.
6. Me and Paul: Untold Stories of a Fabled Friendship
This thoughtful and heartfelt book from 2022 explores Nelson’s close bond with his drummer and right-hand man, Paul English. Even if you have no knowledge of English or his relationship with Nelson, Me and Paul will leave you moved by the massive impact he left on many.
(Photo by Gary Miller/Getty Images)
The knowledge of Willie Nelson alone is worth the reads. Think of it..
He took typical jazz licks, from his early days, gently caressed them with Spanish style and created something tasteful and long lasting.
He’s timeless but I can’t help but notice very, very few can even come close to his style. Good post.