Why Willie Nelson’s 76th Album Feels Different—and the Meaning Behind Its Haunting Title. ML
Willie Nelson to Release Reflective New Album ‘Last Leaf on the Tree’ — His 153rd Project, Produced by Son Micah
Willie Nelson continues to defy time and expectations. The 91-year-old country music legend has announced his latest studio album, Last Leaf on the Tree, set for release on November 1, 2025. With this album, Nelson reaches a remarkable milestone — 153 albums in total, with this being his 76th solo studio effort.
The new record brings a deeply personal touch to Nelson’s discography, as it marks the first time his son, Micah Nelson, has served as producer. Micah, 34, is no stranger to performing with his father — they’ve worked together on past albums like Willie and the Boys (2017) and The Willie Nelson Family (2021) — but this time, Micah plays a more central creative role.
The project was recorded at The Hen House, Micah’s recording studio in Venice, California, a setting that adds a raw, intimate atmosphere to the album.
Leading the album is Nelson’s cover of Tom Waits’ haunting ballad “Last Leaf”, which was released as the first single. The original version featured Keith Richards, but Nelson’s version is a stripped-back solo performance that reflects his own life journey — a voice that remains tender and wise. Nelson also covers Waits’ “House Where Nobody Lives,” further embracing the album’s themes of solitude and legacy.
Also featured is a touching rendition of “If It Wasn’t Broken”, originally by indie folk singer Sunny War. Ward shared her disbelief and joy in the press release, recalling how she once played the song while busking on the Venice Beach boardwalk. “I would have never imagined back then that Willie Nelson would ever even hear it,” she said. “This is the sweetest and greatest thing that’s ever happened to me as a writer and musician.”
Last Leaf on the Tree features a diverse lineup of musicians: Raphael Lanois on pedal steel, John Densmore of The Doors on drums, and Magatte Sow, known for his West African percussion. These collaborators help shape the album’s textured soundscape.
The 13-track collection includes three original songs from the Nelsons. Willie wrote “The Ghost” and collaborated with Micah on “Color of Sound”. Micah also contributes his own song, “Wheels.”
In an emotional statement, Micah revealed that the album reflects how he and his father have processed the “finality of life” in recent years. “There are little side-quests,” he explained, “but that became the through-line — facing death with grace.”
The album will be available in digital format, as well as on CD and vinyl LP, including a special edition featuring a limited-edition lithograph for collectors.
With Last Leaf on the Tree, Willie Nelson once again proves that age has only deepened his artistry. As he looks back on life with wisdom and grace, he offers fans a powerful reminder: the story’s not over yet.
