About the song
When we think of the great American musical traditions, few artists come to mind as quickly as **Willie Nelson**, whose storied career has shaped the landscape of country music and beyond. Known for his distinctive voice, his expert guitar playing, and his deeply emotive songwriting, **Willie Nelson** has carved out a legacy that spans decades. But even within his vast catalog, one song stands out as a truly unique reinterpretation: **”Summertime.”**
Originally written by **George Gershwin** for the 1935 opera *Porgy and Bess*, **”Summertime”** has been performed by countless artists in genres ranging from jazz to blues to classical. But **Willie Nelson’s** version is especially poignant, bringing a distinct country flavor to this timeless classic. His rendition, found on the 1978 album *Stardust*, is a soothing, laid-back take that seems to perfectly encapsulate the warmth and nostalgia of summer.
In **”Summertime,”** Nelson’s voice, with its weathered, gravelly tone, lends a deep sense of sincerity to the lyrics. His phrasing, effortless yet deliberate, transforms the song from an operatic piece into something much more intimate and personal. The lush orchestration and soft, jazzy instrumentation create a dreamlike quality that invites the listener to relax and lose themselves in the beauty of the moment. It’s as if **Willie Nelson** is personally inviting you into a peaceful afternoon, a timeless moment in the sun, where the world slows down, and all that matters is the feeling of the breeze and the sound of his voice.
What makes this version of **”Summertime”** so enduring is its ability to remain true to the essence of the original while still offering something completely fresh and uniquely **Willie Nelson**. The gentle swing of the melody, paired with his understated yet soulful guitar work, elevates the piece into a realm of emotional depth that resonates with listeners of all ages.
For those who have lived through the ebb and flow of many summers, **”Summertime”** brings forth memories of days gone by and the ever-present warmth of the season. **Willie Nelson** has a way of capturing that feeling—one of quiet reflection, gentle joy, and the simple pleasures that come with the passage of time. Whether you’re listening to it in the comfort of your home or out on a porch watching the sun dip below the horizon, **”Summertime”** is a perfect companion for the soul.
Video
Lyrics
Summertime (Summertime)
And the living’s easy
Fish are jumpin’
And the cotton is high
Oh, your daddy’s rich
Yeah, your mama’s good-lookin’
So hush, little baby
Don’t you cry
One of these mornings
You’re gonna rise up singin’
Then you’ll spread your wings
And you’ll take to the sky
But until that mornin’
Nothing’s gonna harm you
Not with your daddy and your mama
Standin’ by
Summertime (Summertime)
And the livin’ is easy
One of these mornings
You’re gonna rise up singin’
Then you’ll spread your wings
Then you’ll take to the sky
But until that mornin’
There’s nothin’ gonna harm you
Not with your daddy and your mama
Standin’ by
Summertime
And the living’s easy
Summertimе
The livin’ is easy
Summertimе (Summertime)
The livin’ is easy
So hush, little baby
Don’t you cry
