With a 77th solo studio album on the way and another year of Luck Festival under his belt, it is official – Willie Nelson is the gift that just keeps on giving.
First off, let’s talk about his upcoming album. Oh What A Beautiful World is scheduled for release on April 25, 2025, just days before his 92nd birthday. This album serves as a tribute to the songwriting of fellow Texan Rodney Crowell, featuring Nelson’s interpretations of 12 tracks written or co-written by Crowell over the past five decades. The title track is a duet between Nelson and Crowell. Originally appearing on Crowell’s 2014 album Tarpaper Sky, this song reflects on the passage of time and the appreciation of life’s beauty.
Now, here’s a bit about Luck Reunion. Happening since 2012, traditionally occurring during SXSW, this one-of-a-kind event is a can’t miss! I mean, when you get a chance to party with Willie Nelson, you take it. It is the absolute best most iconic Austin experience. The event takes place on Willie’s property in the old west town of Luck, TX, originally built in 1985 as the backdrop for the film Red Headed Stranger.
A few of the best moments at Luck Reunion with Willie Nelson over the years:
- Willie and Kermit the Frog (2024): In a delightful surprise, Kermit the Frog joined Willie Nelson on stage to perform Rainbow Connection, captivating the audience with this unexpected duet.
- The War and Treaty (2023): From the moment Michael and Tanya Trotter came on stage you could feel the electricity bubbling. They performed a powerful mix of their own songs and a few covers.
- The Toadies and The Polyphonic Spree (2022): The diverse lineup including these two indie rock bands ushered in a new season for the traditionally folk/ country festival.
- Margo Price (2017): Price delivered a standout performance, further solidifying her status in the country music scene. Fun fact: I posted a video of her performance which she messaged and asked me to take down because she didn’t like the way she sounded.
- Elle King (2017): Surprise performances are one of the things that makes this event so special, like Elle King doing an intimate set.
- Leon Bridges (2016): Bridges captivated the audience with his soulful performance, blending classic R&B with contemporary sounds.
Highlights from Luck Reunion 2025
In 2025, Nelson and family kept the good times going. We enjoyed sets from Aly and AJ, Lukas Nelson, Charley Crockett, Lucinda Williams and Willie, of course, But the highlights for this year were the two surprise performances. First, Jessica Simpson showed up to introduce her new country music, which focuses on the heartbreak of her marriage ending. Later in the day, Arcade Fire performed a set to a very small audience inside the saloon. Fans lined up for hours hoping to get in on the experience. Sadly, only about 150 people were able to witness the full performance, however, the band played two songs in front of the saloon before heading inside and let me tell you, the vibe was vibing!
