About the song
Released in 1982, Willie Nelson’s “Always on My Mind” isn’t just another country album; it’s a landmark achievement that transcended genre boundaries. While the title itself might suggest a collection of new originals, the album surprised fans with a fresh take on classic songs, catapulting Nelson to even greater heights.
The story behind the album is as captivating as the music itself. During a recording session for a collaborative project with Merle Haggard, producer Chips Moman suggested Nelson consider Johnny Christopher’s “Always on My Mind.” While the song didn’t resonate with Haggard, it struck a chord with Nelson, becoming the title track and setting the tone for the album.
Nelson’s version of “Always on My Mind” became an instant classic. His signature vocals, brimming with emotion, breathed new life into the song. The album itself, however, was a bold departure from typical country fare. Nelson ventured beyond traditional country standards, incorporating adult-contemporary and pop classics like “Do Right Woman, Do Right Man” and Paul Simon’s “Bridge Over Troubled Water.” This eclectic mix showcased Nelson’s versatility and willingness to experiment.
The album wasn’t just about reinterpreting popular songs; it also included re-recordings of Nelson’s own classics like “Permanently Lonely” and “The Party’s Over.” This decision allowed fans to experience his earlier works through a more mature lens.
“Always on My Mind” became a commercial juggernaut, topping the Billboard Country Albums chart and spending an impressive 253 weeks on the charts. It even crossed over to mainstream audiences, reaching number two on the Billboard 200 chart.
The 2003 re-release with bonus tracks like “The Man Who Owes Everyone” and “I’m a Memory” further solidified the album’s enduring legacy.
Willie Nelson’s “Always on My Mind” is more than just a collection of songs; it’s a testament to artistic courage and innovation. It showcased Nelson’s ability to reinvent himself, connect with a wider audience, and solidify his place as a musical icon.
Video
Lyrisc
Maybe I didn’t love you
Quite as often as I could have
Maybe I didn’t treat you
Quite as good as I should have
If I made you feel, oh, second best (you did, you did)
Girl, I’m sorry I was blind
You were always on my mind
You were always on my mind
Maybe I didn’t hold you
All those lonely, lonely times
And I guess I never told you
I’m so happy that you’re mine
Little things I should have said and done
I just never took the time
When you were always on my mind
You were always on my mind
Tell me
Tell me that your sweet love hasn’t died
And give me
Give me one more chance to keep you satisfied
I’ll keep you satisfied
Little things I should have said and done
I just never took the time
But you were always on my mind (you were always on my mind)
You were always on my mind
You were always on my mind (you were always on my mind)
You were always on my mind