I showed up ready to watch Willie Nelson, but by the end I was hitting replay for Red Clay Strays—because that’s how powerful this performance was. When Willie Nelson and the Red Clay Strays came together for “Will the Circle Be Unbroken?” and “I’ll Fly Away,” it didn’t just move the crowd—it shook them. As someone who’s been an “old country” fan my whole life, I’m used to rolling my eyes at all the noise that passes for country these days. But Red Clay Strays? They’re different. They’re real. They’re the kind of sound that grabs your chest and doesn’t let go. After this performance, they’re officially my favorite band—no hesitation, no debate. They hit a level most modern country can’t even touch.

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92-Year-Old Country Icon Wows Fans With Incredible Performance

During a recent performance accompanied by Alabama’s The Red Clay Strays, country music legend Willie Nelson delivered a powerful rendition of the gospel classic “I’ll Fly Away,” leaving the audience deeply moved.

Fans took to social media, calling the performance “Legendary” and “Once in a lifetime.”

“stooopp this is the best!!! it was my grandma’s fav song & I lost her Feb2024,” another user recalled.

“I’ll Fly Away” lyrics read: Some glad morning when this life is over / I’ll fly away / To a home on God’s celestial shore / I’ll fly away

“This show was very much needed for personal reasons. So moving,” another user commented. “I have seen Willie many times but my 1st seeing [you] guys even though I follow your music. I can feel every word sang. Amazing show!”

 

“I’ll Fly Away” Provides Peace Amid Sorrow

“I’ll Fly Away” is a timeless gospel hymn written in 1929 by Albert E. Brumley. Widely known as one of the most recorded spiritual songs in American history, it reflects themes of hope, freedom, and the promise of eternal life.

The song has become a staple at funerals and religious services, offering comfort to those grieving. Nearly 100 years later, its message of hope and peace continues to resonate with audiences across generations.

“I’ll Fly Away” has been covered by dozens of artists across multiple genres, from traditional gospel to country, bluegrass, folk, and even pop.

In 2006, Alan Jackson recorded the hit as part of his gospel album Precious Memories. His version stays true to the song’s classic roots, featuring a simple, heartfelt delivery that highlights the hymn’s meaningful message.

 

Nelson Tours At 92-Years-Old

Nelson’s current tour, the Outlaw Music Festival, runs throughout the summer and features artists like Bob Dylan, Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats, Billy Strings, Sierra Hull, and Lily Meola, among others.

His tour concludes on September 19th in East Troy, Wisconsin, after beginning a few months ago on May 13th in Phoenix, Arizona.

Tickets for the remaining cities are still available, and you can check out one of Willie Nelson’s timeless performances below.

 

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