Willie Nelson 'I Don't Know A Thing About Love: The Songs of Harlan Howard' Album Review

Willie Nelson released his 73rd solo studio LP on March 3rrd, 2023. Fans were excited to see I Don’t Know A Thing About Love: The Songs of Harlan Howard, a 10-song tribute album to country legend, Harlan Howard.

Howard once described country music as, “Three chords and the truth" a phrase that nearly every artist in the genre likes to make references to. While Nelson's newest album certainly shows off more than three chords, he speaks nothing but the truth. The album is composed of 10 songs, either written or performed originally by Howard.

Nelson continues to prove why he is one of the all-time greats in country music. The album opens with “Tiger By The Tail," originally performed by the band Buck Owens, and written by Harlan Howard. Willie puts his own twist on the classic, adding his signature soothing twang and jazzy style to the traditionally upbeat rock tune. “Tiger By The Tail” is about the stress of a fast-paced lifestyle. Nelson proclaims, “I've got a tiger by the tail, it's plain to see / I won't be much when you get through with me / Well, I'm losing weight and turnin' mighty pale / Looks like I've got a tiger by the tail." Nelson adds a personal twist to a timeless classic, perfectly setting the tone for the record.

The living legend slows things down on the fourth track, “Life Turned Her That Way." This song is a story of sympathy, where Howard writes of a girl who has struggled so deeply that her cold exterior is only to be expected. Howard writes, “If she seems cold and bitter / Then I beg of you / Just stop and consider / All she's gone through / Don't be quick to condemn her / For things she might say / Just remember / Life turned her that way.” This song not only tugs at the heartstrings, but also showcases Nelson’s impressive voice.

Nelson talks to the man on the moon on the title track, “I Don’t Know a Thing About Love”, originally performed by Conway Twitty. This track is one of Howard’s most popular songs. Nelson swoons listeners with his soft vocal style, perfectly suited for cosmic conversation. Nelson sings, "Son, I could tell you things that might kill you/ But I don't get involved in what's wrong or righ t/ I don't know a thing about love." This song shows just how confusing love can be, even the man on the moon, who presumably knows all, can’t help the main character with his troubles.

Willie Nelson continues to exemplify excellence in country music. His voice is perfectly tailored to his sound and his stylistic choices are among the best. Nelson has the power to turn any song into his own and does exactly that with this touching tribute to a country music superstar.

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