In his recent autobiography called Me and Paul: Untold Stories of a Fabled Friendship, Willie Nelson has revealed many personal stories about his life and his companions. Music lovers and history enthusiasts have waited for the book which warmly pays tribute to Paul English, Nelson’s longtime drummer and trusted friend.
The book covers more than seventy years of Phil’s music, travel and relationship with his brother, offering readers a unique chance to see inside his life. Despite his laughter and the legacy he has left, Nelson does not hesitate to discuss the tough moments in his life.
What stands out in the book is how honestly Nelson describes his suicide attempt during one of his darkest hours. He shares that once, he approached a bar patron and told him he planned to lay down on the train tracks to end his life because he was so badly affected by one bad night.
Fifteen tough minutes later, he came back to the bar—still breathing and clearly labeled as a survivor of assault. It shows not only how much Nelson has suffered, but also that this was possible only because he has persevered throughout his career.
Nelson, although admitting much, is not somber in the book or in recent interviews. At nearly 92 years, he is still passionately involved in life, music and the people who value them both.
I like that he wants to keep living for enjoyment and advancement, not just give up on the good life he has made for himself. This philosophy is mainly centered on staying healthy and staying active. He said that running and singing each day plays a big role in making his lungs strong and boosting his spirits.
Nelson looks to have no plans of slowing down anytime soon. He looks forward to sharing his music live and feeding on the energy of his followers as he has on many roads over decades. He is still joyfully passionate about performing and he sees every concert as a time to share, to help and to draw happiness from the music he has always turned to.
Me and Paul goes beyond being a memoir; it shares the highs and lows of friendship, what we learn from them and the resilience that keeps us going through difficult times.
All things considered, Willie Nelson appears as a real and kind human being with plenty of grace. By reading his story in his words, you realize that no one is safe from hard times and it is resilience, humor and love that get us through.
