Willie Nelson had to make the difficult decision to postpone their Jazz Fest Headlining Gig after finding that one of the Willie Nelson Family Band members had tested positive for COVID-19 during a tour in May of last year. Willie, it was eventually determined, was the one who contracted the virus.
Anyone would be terrified if they awoke in the middle of the night on their tour bus, like Willie did. His rapid polymerase chain reaction test confirmed his greatest fears: he had indeed caught COVID-19. Willie’s age and sensitivity to the virus exacerbated the issue.
Willie Nelson’s wife, Anne Nelson, recounted the procedures they took to ensure his recovery. “I had a nebulizer with me on the bus.” I started everything I could at the time, including Paxlovid. He had monoclonal antibodies with him. He was on steroids, she revealed. In order to provide Willie with the best possible treatment, they transformed their Spicewood, Texas, home into a makeshift hospital and enlisted the help of an entire medical team to monitor his status.
Anne recalled her doubts as she reflected on those tough days, saying, “There were a couple of times when I wasn’t sure he was going to make it.” Willie’s road to recovery was not easy, but after six days, he was back on stage and eager to play. He went back on the road two weeks later, performing in New Braunfels, Texas.
Willie Nelson’s battle with COVID-19 serves as a caution not to underestimate the virus. Despite his unpleasant experience, Willie maintains his characteristic humor, adding, “COVID ain’t nothing to laugh at, that’s for sure.” His persistence and determination inspire us all.
Don’t miss Willie Nelson and his Family Band performing live at the Farm Aid 2022 Music Festival in Raleigh, North Carolina on September 24. He’ll be joined onstage by a stellar cast of musicians, including Sheryl Crow, Chris Stapleton, Margo Price, and John Mellencamp. Let us celebrate the resiliency of the human spirit and the power of music together.