Willie Nelson Sets ‘American Standard’

Willie Nelson, whose 1978 album of pop standards called 'Stardust' was the No. 1 country album for that year, is releasing another collection of standards, aptly titled 'American Classic.'

The disc will feature special guest appearances from Norah Jones and Diana Krall, string arrangements by 83-year-old music legend Johnny Mandel, best known for his work with the likes of Frank Sinatra and Peggy Lee. Willie's backing band will include longtime sidekick Mickey Raphael playing harmonica, along with jazz greats Joe Sample (piano), Christian McBride (bass) and Lewis Nash (drums).

While Willie has always experimented with musical genres, from outlaw country to reggae, 'Stardust' ushered in an era which has seen numerous contemporary pop and country artists exploring American standards. He was first encouraged to record that album by Bruce Lundvall, who's now President of Blue Note Records. Lundvall signed Willie to Columbia Records in the 1970s and has now offered him a home at the Blue Note label. In 2008, he collaborated with trumpeter Wynton Marsalis, on a live album called 'Two Men with the Blues.'

'American Classic' is set for release on August 25. The album will also include a new version of Willie's Grammy-winning 'Always on My Mind.'

Track Listing for 'American Classic':

'The Nearness of You'
'Fly Me to the Moon'
'Come Rain or Shine'
'If I Had You' featuring Diana Krall
'Ain't Misbehavin'' (a No. 1 country hit for Hank Williams Jr. in 1986)
'I Miss You So'
'Because of You'
'Baby It's Cold Outside' featuring Norah Jones
'Angel Eyes'
'On the Street Where You Live'
'Since I Fell for You'
'Always on My Mind'