Unveiling Willie’s Statue, April 20, 2012 4:20pm Austin, TX. Corner of Willie Nelson Blvd and Lavaca

This is my take of the unveiling of Willie’s bronze immortalization for the people of Austin and the world. That’s the real Willie on the right with the black cowboy hat. Willie Nelson is one of the finest humans I’ve gotten share the planet with. It’s a pleasure, and an honor, to be alive the same time as him, in the same space, at the same place, during some of (70’s-’12) the same decades. This statue will become one of the symbols of Austin, TX to the World. And for the best of reasons…

Willie Nelson Statue Install, and Scott Newton (self portrait). ACL-Live April 17, 2012, Austin TX

So, they’ve installed a fine likeness of Willie Nelson, sculpted in bronze, at the entrance of ACL-Live–the home of Austin City Limits, and ACL-Live. That’s me, raising my arm in toast while they’re still hoisting him into position, and saluting the man who is, after all, being commemorated before he’s done touring and performing and making them all happy… Here’s to Willie Nelson..