Willie Nelson to publish book about songwriting

Country music legend Willie Nelson is set to publish a book about songwriting. The book, titled “It’s Hard to Be a Hippie Cowboy” (Ecco Press; October 2023), will be released on October 2, 2023.

The book will chronicle Nelson’s 65-year career as a songwriter, from his early days in Nashville to his current status as an American icon. Nelson will share his thoughts on the craft of songwriting, as well as the stories behind some of his most famous songs.

“I’ve been writing songs for as long as I can remember,” Nelson said in a statement. “It’s something that comes naturally to me. I’m always thinking about songs, even when I’m not actively writing them. I’m excited to share my thoughts on songwriting with the world.”

Nelson’s songwriting has been praised for its honesty, its simplicity, and its ability to connect with people from all walks of life. He has written some of the most iconic songs in country music history, including “Crazy,” “On the Road Again,” and “He Was a Friend of Mine.”

“Willie Nelson is one of the greatest songwriters of our time,” said Ecco Press editor-in-chief Jonathan Galassi. “His songs are timeless and universal, and they have touched the lives of millions of people around the world. We are honored to be publishing his book about songwriting.”

“It’s Hard to Be a Hippie Cowboy” is sure to be a must-read for fans of Willie Nelson and songwriting enthusiasts alike.

Here are some of the things that readers can expect to learn from Nelson’s book:

The inspiration behind some of his most famous songs
His songwriting process
His thoughts on the craft of songwriting
His advice for aspiring songwriters

The book is also sure to be a valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the history of country music and the songwriting process.

In addition to his songwriting achievements, Nelson is also a renowned musician, actor, and activist. He has won numerous awards, including 14 Grammy Awards, and has been inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Songwriters Hall of Fame, and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Nelson is a true American icon, and his book about songwriting is sure to be a cherished addition to the world of music literature.

Here are some additional details about the book: