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What makes this CD unique is that it features a very eclectic mix of musicians accompanying Willie in versions of popular songs (both his and theirs). The songs with Paul Simon, Eric Clapton and Ray Charles/Leon Russell provide entertaining performances that are also important moments in music history. It would be like having a recording of Lennon and Hendrix singing together.

Willie has recorded with everyone from Frank Sinatra to Janis Joplin. So, it is not a surprise that some of his guests on this CD may seem strange (Steven Tyler and Wyclef Jean). While many say his voice doesn't work with more polished singers, I think he provides an interesting contrast to the silky vocals of Norah Jones and Dianne Krall.

There seems to be a common theme among the positive and negative reviews on here: the positive reviews contain references to the television broadcast that proceeded the release of this CD and the negative ones do not. This seems to suggest the experience of listening to the music is heightened by viewing the live performances, and I agree.


Still Kickin', Nelson remains constantly on tour.   March 7, 2004
Recorded over a Two-day period and originally aired on the USA network last Memorial Day, Live and Kickin' shows Willie Nelson at the top of his career. He is joined onstage by Eric Clapton, Ray Charles, Wyclef Jean, Elvis Costello, Paul Simon, and ZZ Top to name a few. The album is a plethora of musical exploration, showing different sides of Nelson as a musician, and proving that he is as dynamic as they come. He appeals to diehard country fans, but Homeward Bound with Paul Simon is closer to folk, and To All The Girl's I Loved Before with Wyclef is more along the lines of Reggae. The solo tracks could only be described as haunting and tortured in a twangy sort of way. The immense crowds' reaction hangs on to every one of his words, honoring him like the accomplished road-veteran he is.


not bad   January 17, 2004
This isnt bad, but I heard it at the same time as Johnny Cash's last album and thought that one had more heart. I was also listening to David Allan Coe's Live From Billy Bob's and thought that one had more energy. Willie seems watered down here by all the guests.


Live duets with an icon   December 26, 2003
This is a tough call the other reviews are so mixed about this cd.I like a good duet to begin with so I will list what I like least and then my personal favorite cuts.To all the girls is horrible I skip it it when I play it in my truck.I am not at all moved by homeward bound it is not good harmony at all.I think the best cut is Norah and Willie doing wurlitzer prize.Shania has been bashed buy others but I like her on blue eyes crying in the rain I always wished Shania would go back to her roots like the material from her first album before she sold out and crossed over.Ray Price and Willie sound great on run that by me.I am amused by Steve Tyler and Willie together but I like it.
I like this album despite what I am critcal of.Willie is damn icon The fact that he has sung with so many artists is a tribute to his icon status.


Very Disappointed   December 21, 2003
I was not impressed at all. Some of the songs really sound bad. Off key and if you really like the origianl "Of all the girls I've loved before" you will be extremely sick hearing this version. Off key, off beat and it hurts to even listen to it. The worst CD I have ever bought. I wish I had bought Toby Keith instead. Willie needs to be in the studio when he records.