Introduction
Willie Nelson at 90: Looking Back, Looking Forward — And Why He Says Marijuana Changed His Life
Turning 90 might make most people slow down. Not Willie Nelson.
The legendary country artist — known for his soulful ballads, outlaw spirit, and unmistakable voice — recently celebrated his 90th birthday with a mixture of gratitude, humor, and candid honesty. In a heartfelt sit-down interview, Nelson opened up about the highs and lows of his life, the clarity age has brought, and how marijuana, he says, may have been one of the most important reasons he’s still alive.
“I don’t know if I’d still be here without it,” Willie said with his familiar smile. “It’s done more good for me than most of what the doctors prescribed.”
A Milestone Birthday
Born in 1933 in Abbott, Texas, Willie Nelson has lived through some of the most transformative decades in American history. His music has spanned generations, his influence has touched countless genres, and his personal journey has inspired millions. Hitting 90 is no small feat — but for Nelson, it’s just another chance to keep doing what he loves.
“I didn’t really plan on making it to 90,” he joked. “But now that I’m here, I figure I’ll hang around a while longer.”
Willie celebrated his birthday in April 2023 with a massive two-night tribute concert at the Hollywood Bowl, where stars like Chris Stapleton, Sheryl Crow, Snoop Dogg, and George Strait performed in his honor. Still, Nelson remains humble about the recognition.
“I just show up and sing,” he laughed. “They make it look like a big deal.”
The Role of Cannabis in His Longevity
Willie Nelson has long been a vocal advocate for cannabis legalization. But for him, marijuana is far more than a lifestyle choice or a political issue — it’s a part of his wellness routine, one he credits with literally saving his life.
Back in the 1990s and early 2000s, Nelson was suffering from lung problems, anxiety, and the consequences of years of hard living. He gave up cigarettes and alcohol, but marijuana remained.
“Quitting cigarettes was the best thing I ever did,” he said. “But I kept the weed. It helps me breathe easier, helps me sleep, keeps the pain down.”
Nelson says marijuana helped him ditch more harmful substances and find balance in both his physical and mental health.
“I think it’s a medicine,” he explained. “For some folks, it’s a way to escape. For me, it’s a way to stay here.”
Staying Active at 90
Even at 90, Nelson isn’t retired — far from it. He’s still writing music, touring occasionally, and performing with his sons Lukas and Micah. His latest album was released to critical acclaim, and his unique, gentle voice remains one of the most iconic sounds in American music.
“I’ll probably die on stage,” he jokes. “And I’m okay with that.”
Nelson maintains a consistent routine of light exercise, meditation, and — naturally — his regular cannabis regimen.
“I don’t run marathons,” he said. “But I get up, move around, and keep my body tuned like I do my guitar.”
He also attributes his long life to simplicity: less stress, more music, and a strong connection to family and friends.
Family and Reflection
At this stage in life, Nelson’s greatest joy comes from spending time with his children and grandchildren. His sons often join him on stage, and he’s expressed how meaningful it is to create and perform music with them.
“It’s a blessing,” he said. “Seeing my boys carry the torch, doing their own thing, making their own mark — it makes me proud.”
Willie also says age has helped him reflect more deeply on his journey — including his past mistakes, lost friendships, and the evolving meaning of success.
“I’ve learned a lot,” he said quietly. “Lost a lot, too. But every mistake taught me something. I’m still learning every day.”
Willie’s Message on Cannabis: “It’s Time to Get Real”
While more states in the U.S. continue to legalize cannabis, Nelson has long urged Americans to reconsider the stigma. He’s founded his own marijuana brand — Willie’s Reserve — and spoken openly about the benefits of responsible cannabis use.
“It’s not the devil’s lettuce,” he laughs. “It’s a plant. It’s helped a lot of people deal with pain, trauma, and anxiety — and it helped me stop doing worse things to my body.”
Nelson encourages open, honest conversations about cannabis — not just for recreational users, but for veterans, chronic pain sufferers, and anyone who may benefit from it medicinally.
“Let’s get past the judgment and look at the facts,” he said. “This isn’t about getting high — it’s about healing.”
Facing Mortality With Humor and Peace
Willie doesn’t fear death — in fact, he talks about it with remarkable ease.
“You live, you die. That’s the deal,” he said. “I don’t worry about what comes next. I just try to enjoy the ride while it lasts.”
He hopes to leave behind not just a catalog of timeless music, but a legacy of kindness, activism, and honesty.
“I want people to say I stood up for what I believed in. That I made folks smile. That I didn’t take life too seriously.”
Still on the Road… For Now
While Nelson isn’t touring as rigorously as he once did, he still performs at select venues and festivals. He says that as long as he can walk onstage and strum a few chords, he’ll keep showing up.
“The crowd gives me energy,” he said. “It reminds me I’m still here, still part of something bigger than myself.”
And when asked if he thinks he’ll ever truly retire?
“I don’t know how,” he replied. “I’d have to learn what that even means.”
Looking Ahead
As Willie Nelson moves forward into his 90s, he does so with a full heart, a clear mind, and no regrets. He’s more than a musician — he’s a storyteller, an advocate, and a living legend who remains as curious, creative, and compassionate as ever.
“Every day’s a gift,” he said. “I open it slow, enjoy the hell out of it, and thank the universe for another sunrise.”
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