In just a few days, Willie Nelson is set to celebrate another year as he will turn 92 years old. And besides enjoying his time with family, the country icon couldn’t help but take a trip back to his decades in the spotlight. First walking on stage during the 1950s, Willie became the face of outlaw country. And over the last several decades, he remained that face as he continuously released new albums. His last album to hit shelves was just last year with Last Leaf on the Tree. If that wasn’t enough, Willie will release his 77th solo album on April 25th with Oh What A Beautiful Day. A true legend when it comes to country music, his son, Lukas Nelson, recently revealed some of the best advice his father gave him.
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Appearing on the latest episode of The Breakdown with Mike Campbell, Lukas discussed his career on and off the stage. Growing up with Willie as a father, it seemed that the singer’s talents extended to his children. Wanting to fashion his own career in country, Lukas proved himself with hits like “Bad Memory”, “All Things Must Pass”, and “Angel Dream.”
Recalling the early years of his career, Lukas remembered taking a walk with his father and how he learned the importance of a singer’s signature voice. He told Campbell, “The voice is something that, you know, I continue to build and grow with. I remember the moment that my dad was walking with me and really told me, ‘You gotta cultivate and grow and build a good singing voice because just playing guitar, you know, there are so many people that will do that, and get so good at playing guitar but not be able to break past a certain point in a career. The one thing that really is unique is your voice.’”
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Lukas Nelson Never Forgot The Two Ingredients For A Hit Career
Given the stardom that surrounded Willie over the decades, Lukas took the advice to heart and never forgot that moment. He added, “To be able to write songs and sing, he really instilled that in me that that’s the way to have a career that lasts.”
Even with Campbell admitting it was good advice from Willie, Lukas couldn’t help but agree. “It was a good piece of advice.”
Besides Campbell’s praise, fans also commented on the legacy Lukas was making on his own. “Lukas, you have an amazing voice. That is what brought me to be a fan of yours. Dad was right and you’ve done him proud.”
While Willie is on the verge of releasing yet another album, Lukas remained in the creative process as his last album, Sticks and Stones, was released back in 2023. But with more than enough inspiration and talent, it is only a matter of time.
(Photo by Nicola Gell/WireImage)
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