While his entire life surrounded country music thanks to his father, Willie Nelson, 2025 was somewhat of a new beginning for Lukas Nelson. Having spent years with his band, Lukas decided to explore a different path when he released his debut studio album on June 20th with American Romance. Hitting the road to support the new album, the country singer found himself performing in Big Sky, Montana. Although promoting his new album, Nelson decided to shine a light on Pearl Jam when he covered “Just Breathe.” And not wanting to do it alone, Lukas performed alongside Dave Matthews.
Videos by American Songwriter
With both singers holding a unique spot in the music industry, fans in attendance received a special treat when they brought new life to the 2009 hit song at what social media is calling a “bucket list level concert.” Released on the album Backspacer, the song spent 13 weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Adult Alternative Airplay chart. It also took the top spot on the Canada Rock chart. Just another hit song in the history of Pearl Jam, the duo of Lukas and Matthews not only celebrated the band but offered a unique take on the classic.
Already climbing over 24,000 views, fans appeared to enjoy their cover as comments read, “My favorite.” Another person added, “Gets better every time he plays it.” While Matthews, Lukas, and Pearl Jam all come from different genres, there was no mistaking their passion for music.
Lukas Nelson Discusses Life On The Road
Just the latest stop for Lukas, he recently opened up about his life on the road. Again, spending years in country music, the singer became an expert at touring. When asked about how he handled the miles, he said, “I’m trying to get exercise while I can and eat well and sleep well. Days off help – it’s good because you can sleep in generally. Most of the time, you don’t have a wake-up time specified. So, the time you go to bed may be late, but you can also sleep as long as you want – I just have to get the curtains black.”
While enjoying the life he created within country music, Lukas admitted that due to his lifestyle, home is somewhat of an unknown. “When people ask me where I’m from, I can’t really give a straight answer. I mean, I’ve slept anywhere from my car to fancy hotel rooms, on street corners, and had Thanksgivings in diners and truck stops. I just feel like I was raised by the country as a whole rather than from one place.”
With Lukas using his life on the road to not only shape his perspective but also his music, his years on the road didn’t just influence his perspective—they became the heartbeat of American Romance.
Photo by Rick Kern/Getty Images for Shock Ink
Leave a Reply
Only members can comment. Become a member. Already a member? Log in.