Willie's Stash, Vol. 2: Willie Nelson and the Boys cover

Willie's Stash, Vol. 2: Willie Nelson and the Boys

Willie Nelson · 2017

39 min · 12 tracks · blues

A rich tapestry of classic country covers, infused with heartfelt vocals and timeless storytelling.

Top tracks — play these first

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    I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry — This rendition captures the deep sorrow of the original while adding Nelson's signature emotive style, making it a standout on the album.
  • →
    Your Cheatin' Heart — Nelson's interpretation brings a fresh perspective to this classic heartbreak anthem, showcasing both vulnerability and resilience in his vocal delivery.
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    Move It on Over Start here — The upbeat tempo and playful lyrics highlight Nelson's ability to infuse energy into traditional themes, making it an enjoyable opener for the collection.
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    Cold, Cold Heart — This track exemplifies Nelson's deep connection to the song's emotional core, blending melancholy with masterful storytelling through his performance.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

52 /100
Foothills
Higher than 38% of albums we've rated

The album showcases classic country covers with heartfelt performances but lacks standout original compositions.

What we noticed

  • The album features a consistent use of traditional country instrumentation, including acoustic guitar, steel guitar, and piano across all tracks.
  • Each song is performed with a slow to mid-tempo pace, creating a reflective mood that permeates the entire record.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
5/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
8/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. 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

  • steady flow of heartfelt ballads
  • nostalgic themes of lost love
  • for quiet evenings
  • warm storytelling with emotional depth

Maybe skip if you

  • seeks fast-paced excitement
  • prefers upbeat party anthems

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Late Career Highlight — Showcases classic country songs, highlighting Nelson's enduring relevance in late career.
Career context
By the time Willie Nelson released Willie's Stash, Vol. 2: Willie Nelson and the Boys in 2017, he was celebrating a career that spanned over five decades. This album followed his 2016 release, For the Good Times: A Tribute to Ray Price, showcasing his continued relevance in the country music scene and his deep appreciation for traditional country roots.

Tracklist

  • 1 Move It on Over Start here 3:47
  • 2 Mind Your Own Business 2:42
  • 3 Healing Hands of Time 2:32
  • 4 Can I Sleep in Your Arms 4:19
  • 5 Send Me the Pillow You Dream On 3:17
  • 6 I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry 2:42
  • 7 I'm Movin' On 3:22
  • 8 Your Cheatin' Heart 2:55
  • 9 My Tears Fall 3:28
  • 10 Cold, Cold Heart 4:28
  • 11 Mansion on the Hill 3:31
  • 12 Why Don't You Love Me 2:39

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata