Going 48 years strong, American country legends and ten-time Grammy winners Asleep At The Wheel, along with Seth and Scott Avett, frontmen and founders of the Avett Brothers, have released a new single honoring the king of country himself, Willie Nelson. The song’s title, “Willie Got There First”, says it all.
“Willie Got There First” is a playful and comical ode to the 85-year-old touring behemoth, written by Scott Avett. Avett cleverly meshed references to a number of Willie Nelson’s treasured songs and albums, giving America’s beloved pothead-activist a huge pat on the back and even comparing Nelson to a “Renassaince master.” Joining the already star-studded lineup on the track are longtime Nelson collaborators Bobbie Nelson, Willie’s older sister, and harmonica wizard Mickey Raphael.
“Willie Got There First” is slated to be the final track on Asleep At The Wheel’s new album, New Routes, an 11-song collection. Going into the studio for the first time in over a decade, the band is excited to release their upcoming album September 14th. Amidst a nationwide tour, Asleep At The Wheel heads to Bell’s Eccentric Cafe in Kalamazoo, Michigan, tonight.
Listen to Asleep At The Wheel’s “Willie Got There First” featuring Seth and Scott Avett below.
For a full list of Asleep At The Wheel’s upcoming tour dates and ticket information head to the band’s website.
[H/T RollingStone]