What does Greatest Hits (& Some That Will Be) sound like?

A collection of heartfelt ballads and lively anthems that encapsulate the essence of American country music. Rooted in blues and alternative country. Start with "Railroad Lady".

Is Greatest Hits (& Some That Will Be) a good place to start with Willie Nelson?

Yes, Greatest Hits (& Some That Will Be) is recommended as a starting point for new Willie Nelson listeners. A collection of heartfelt ballads and lively anthems that encapsulate the essence of American country music. Released in 1981, this compilation came at a time when Willie Nelson was experiencing a significant resurgence in popularity following the success of his album 'Red Headed Stranger' in 1975. By this point in his career, he had firmly established himself as a leading figure in the outlaw country movement, blending traditional country sounds with more progressive influences.

Who is Greatest Hits (& Some That Will Be) for?

Greatest Hits (& Some That Will Be) works well if you're into heartfelt storytelling with nostalgia, for reflective afternoons and evocative melodies for sing-alongs.

How many songs are on Greatest Hits (& Some That Will Be)?

Greatest Hits (& Some That Will Be) has 20 tracks, running approximately 69 minutes.

Greatest Hits (& Some That Will Be)

Willie Nelson · 1981

69 min · 20 tracks · blues

A collection of heartfelt ballads and lively anthems that encapsulate the essence of American country music.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Railroad Lady Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain — This poignant ballad showcases Nelson's emotive vocal delivery and storytelling prowess, making it a timeless classic that resonates deeply with listeners.
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On the Road Again — An anthem of camaraderie and adventure, this track became one of Nelson's signature songs, capturing the spirit of life on tour and the joy of making music.
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Mammas Don't Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys — This duet with Waylon Jennings blends humor and wisdom, offering a reflective take on the challenges of a musician's lifestyle while celebrating freedom and individuality.
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Georgia on My Mind — Nelson's soulful rendition transforms this classic into a heartfelt tribute to longing and nostalgia, showcasing his ability to infuse personal emotion into familiar tunes.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

45 /100

Lowland

Higher than 5% of albums we've rated

This compilation highlights Nelson's strong songwriting and performance but lacks the cohesive flow of a studio album.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 4/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

heartfelt storytelling with nostalgia
for reflective afternoons
evocative melodies for sing-alongs
steady mix of tempos throughout
ideal for road trip playlists

Maybe skip if you

seeking instant high-energy tracks
prefer standalone singles over albums

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This compilation solidified Nelson's crossover appeal and wider recognition in country music.
Themes: outlaw country spirit· roadside camaraderie· nostalgic longing
Career context: Released in 1981, this compilation came at a time when Willie Nelson was experiencing a significant resurgence in popularity following the success of his album 'Red Headed Stranger' in 1975. By this point in his career, he had firmly established himself as a leading figure in the outlaw country movement, blending traditional country sounds with more progressive influences.
Stylistic neighbors: Waylon Jennings· Johnny Cash· Kris Kristofferson