By Cornbread

Willie Nelson Special with Special Guest Ray Charles
Eagle Rock Ent. – Sept 2009 (rerelease)

60 minutes of an intimate setting with a younger Willie and special guest Ray Charles. The set was good. The fashion statement of the mid 80’s with the big glasses, polyester and flared hair was less than desirable, however, the magic here is the playfulness of Willie and Charles. The songs are all ones we know the words too and are performed perfectly.

Performed at the Austin Opry House in 1985, Willie Nelson captivated the crowd with his classic tunes, such as “On The Road Again” and “Always On My Mind” before being joined by special guest Ray Charles. While complimenting each other effortlessly on the six duets the two share, they flawlessly meld country, R&B, blues, and soul. Those tracks, “I Can’t Stop Loving You,” “Georgia On My Mind,” and “Angel Eyes,” among others, are testament their unique artistry.

In addition to this exceptional performance, The Willie Nelson Special is interspersed with footage of Nelson’s trip to his hometown of Abbott, Texas. These clips of Nelson with family and friends gives the viewer a chance to observe his roots while listening to the distinguished sound these roots helped to produce.