There are only a handful of artists whose music is so powerful and enduring that it influences numerous musicians, in an array of musical genres for, what seems to have been, "forever". Willie Nelson is one of those artists and he has left an indelible mark on contemporary music and on the artists that create it—whether it’s jazz, country, folk or soul. On January 29, 2008, Nelson will release his new album Moment of Forever on Lost Highway records. Produced by Kenny Chesney and Buddy Cannon, the album represents new musical directions for Nelson, but all within the context of his timeless sound.

The producers were invited to work with Nelson after he was featured on Chesney's version of “That Lucky Old Sun (Just Rolls Around Heaven All Day),” a song Nelson recorded in 1979 with Leon Russell. The mix caught the attention of Nelson’s manager, Mark Rothbaum, who asked Chesney and Cannon if they would be interested in doing a full-blown project. Not surprising, the two were inspired by the country icon.

While he’s written some of the most endearing tunes of the past few decades, Willie Nelson has long been considered a spiritualist, infusing a variety of songs with his distinct personality and sound. Highlighted by Bob Dylan’s “Gotta Serve Somebody” and Dave Matthews’ “Gravedigger”, Moment of Forever proves just that. Other tracks like “The Bob Song,” written by Big Kenny Alphin of Big & Rich, display Willie’s carefree spirit. The album also features new tracks, like Nelson’s own “You Don’t Think I’m Funny Anymore.” Two videos, one for “Gravedigger” and one for “You Don’t Think I’m Funny Anymore,” were recently filmed. The former was shot at a Bronx cemetery and features Nelson in multiple roles. “I was the grave digger, I was the cab driver, I was the limo driver, I was the priest, Nelson said. “I played everybody in there.”

Since picking up his first guitar at age six, Willie has been on the road to stardom. He is a down-to-earth man who appreciates life, and the songs that Willie Nelson wrote for Moment of Forever express what he has always been about – getting lost in a moment.

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Watch: “Gravedigger” and other Willie Nelson Videos

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