It was so great to see Willie Nelson & Family in Lincoln. They played outside at the Pinewood Amphitheater, in Pioneer Park, a park I used to hang out and play frisbee at when I was a hippie living in Lincoln.
It was so hot, the weather app on my phone said it was 88 but that it felt like 99, and it did. But it didn’t slow Willie and his band down. They played for over an hour in the heat, and entertained a very appreciative, loving crowd. Instead of the familiar giant Texas flag, the band performed in front of a backdrop of flags from all the states, which belonged to the Avette Brothers, who have been doing shows with WN&F.
Willie sounded great, his singing, his guitar playing so strong. Lukas is on tour with him on this part of the welcome back Willie tour, and getting to listen to them and watch them singing their hits together was wonderful. There is so much love and respect between them, it just warms your heart to watch them on stage together. We got to hear a lot of Lukas Nelson & Promise of the Real hits, and it was like getting two great concerts in one.
Sister Bobbie, Mickey Raphael showcased their talents backing Willie up along with Lukas. Bobbie is amazing on that piano, and both she and Mickey on harmonica drew loud cheers and applause in appreciation. Kevin Smith on bass and Billy English on drums complete the tight band. It was the first time I had seen the band without Paul English, who sadly has passed away, and it was very sad and strange. There was no performance of “Me and Paul”.
I am so grateful the band is on the road and I got to see them. I just hope they all continue to stay healthy.