The Voice of Country Just Wrapped Christmas in Melody—Willie Nelson’s Latest Song Is Pure Magic. ML
Willie Nelson Spreads Holiday Cheer with “Christmas Love Song” — and Honors Merle Haggard with New Album ‘Workin’ Man’
The holidays are coming early for country fans this year, courtesy of the one and only Willie Nelson. The 92-year-old icon has announced the release of his brand-new single, “Christmas Love Song,” arriving October 24, through Legacy Recordings, followed by a full-length studio album, Workin’ Man: Willie Sings Merle, on November 7.
A Christmas Song Straight from the Heart
Written by Country Music Hall of Famer Bill Anderson alongside acclaimed songwriters Bobby Tomberlin and Marv Green, “Christmas Love Song” is a gentle, heartfelt ballad that captures the true spirit of the season — love, simplicity, and gratitude.
“It ain’t a lot but every word of it’s true,” Nelson sings softly. “It don’t sparkle or shine, but it’s one of a kind.”
Produced by Buddy Cannon, the track is grounded in Nelson’s signature sound: his weathered voice, the tender strumming of Trigger, and the warm hum of Mickey Raphael’s harmonica. The result is a classic Willie performance — understated, emotional, and utterly timeless.
A Legacy of Christmas Music
This isn’t Nelson’s first foray into holiday music. His Pretty Paper album from 1979 remains a country classic, going platinum and earning critical praise across generations. Rolling Stone named it one of the “25 Greatest Christmas Albums of All Time,” while AllMusic celebrated it as “one of the finest country holiday records ever released.”
With “Christmas Love Song,” Nelson adds another unforgettable chapter to his holiday legacy — one that blends nostalgia with fresh emotion.
Honoring a Legend: Workin’ Man: Willie Sings Merle
Just two weeks after the single’s debut, Nelson will release Workin’ Man: Willie Sings Merle, a deeply personal tribute to his longtime friend and fellow country icon, Merle Haggard. The album includes 11 tracks spanning Haggard’s career, from 1966’s Swinging Doors to later classics like “Ramblin’ Fever” and “If We Make It Through December.”
The project, produced once again by Buddy Cannon, showcases Nelson’s enduring respect for Haggard’s songwriting — and his ability to make even familiar tunes feel brand new.
Still Workin’, Still Shining
Despite his age, Willie shows no sign of slowing down. Between releasing new music, performing live, and continuing to collaborate with Nashville’s best, he remains one of America’s most enduring artists.
And as the Christmas Love Song lyric video drops on November 18, fans can count on one thing: Willie Nelson will keep giving the gift of music — honest, heartfelt, and forever timeless.
