Watch Willie Nelson’s Son Team up With Paul Simon’s Wife for a Moving Rendition of “Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain” at Outlaw Music Festival

Willie Nelson had to bow out of much of the Outlaw Music Festival tour this year due to health issues. Fortunately, his son Lukas Nelson was more than capable of stepping up and taking over for him. He can take the stage and perform many of his dad’s songs almost as well as the Red-Headed Stranger himself. People who were lucky enough to see the next generation of the Nelson family take the stage can attest to that. At the same time, there’s plenty of video evidence of it on the internet.

For instance, in the video below, Lukas Nelson teams up with Waylon Payne and Edie Brickell for a rendition of “Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain.” When he sings, his voice sounds almost like his father’s did when he was young, proving that the apple didn’t fall far from the tree. To add to the father-son comparison, the younger Nelson is playing his father’s guitar, Trigger, during the performance. The nylon string Martin guitar is a large part of Willie’s sound. And, in Lukas’ hands, the iconic instrument sounds almost as good as it does when his father plays it.

Videos by American Songwriter

[RELATED: 4 Timeless Willie Nelson Hits Written by Other People]

Lukas Nelson Chose Stellar Stage Partners

Lukas Nelson didn’t take Willie’s place alone. He chose two stellar singer/songwriters to join him. Many people know Edie Brickell as Paul Simon’s wife. However, she has had a long and successful career. She fronted Edie Brickell & New Bohemians in the ‘80s, the band had a hit album with their debut Shooting Rubberbands at the Stars. Additionally, she was in Heavy Circles, the Gaddabouts, and has worked with actor and bluegrass giant Steve Martin.

Named for his godfather Waylon Jennings, Texas-based singer/songwriter/musician Waylon Payne played in Willie’s band for years. Additionally, he has had a long and lauded solo career. He may not be as well known among mainstream country fans, but fans of Texas country know his name well.

This performance shows that Lukas has more than the ability to cover Willie Nelson’s songs. He also has a talent for bringing artists together and showcasing their talents to a wide audience.

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