Willie Nelson: Living in the Promiseland

Written by Luretta Bybee

Mezzo-soprano

In category: Song of the Day

Published April 3, 2017

My mother, Helen Joyce drove an eggshell Cadillac until she couldn’t drive any more, and the sprawl of West Texas required she spend lots of time in her car. She and I agreed on all things “Willie” and we differed on most things political, but when his cd in her Caddy landed on this track, all our differences blew away with the West Texas wind. We sang along with him most times and she always had it playing when I came to town. Our common ground was “Living in the Promiseland”.  I love it for that and also because it makes me feel home.

Willie himself said he was surprised at how relevant the song seems now.  He also said, “I’m happy to smoke a joint with anybody.”  Just so you know…

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Mezzo-soprano Luretta Bybee is an artist of remarkable range and versatility in her performances throughout the world. International recognition came early in her career when she sang the title role in the world tour of Peter Brook’s La tragédie de Carmen. Bizet’s heroine has since figured heavily in Ms. Bybee’s career success. The Seattle Times hailed: “Luretta Bybee…is a sexy, adroit Carmen whose wealth of experience shows in every phrase and gesture.” We look forward to Luretta’s performance in our upcoming gala Honoring Stephen Sondheim on April 19.

1 Comment

  1. Avatar

    I can hear Helen’s sweet voice in your words. And Willie is still magical at 83.

    Reply

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