Willie Nelson, the iconic country singer known for his unique voice, has always faced the topic of mortality head-on. In his 76th studio album, “Last Leaf on the Tree,” set to be released this Friday, he confronts this theme more directly than ever. His son, Micah Nelson, who produced the project, describes it as an embodiment of Willie’s graceful acceptance of death.

The album’s lead single, “Last Leaf,” originally by Tom Waits, poignantly captures the spirit of resilience. The lyrics reflect a sense of survival, signifying that amidst loss, there is still something enduring. This sentiment resonated deeply with Willie, especially following the recent passing of his friend Kris Kristofferson, which left him as one of the last remaining members of the Highwaymen supergroup.

In a recent conversation, Nelson shared his experiences with loss, acknowledging the ongoing pain that comes with losing loved ones, yet emphasizing his determination to continue living. At 91, he finds joy in collaborating with his son, who handled production, instrumentation, and visual elements of the album. Willie is proud of Micah’s dedication and talents, calling him a “little renaissance dude.”

Willie also embraces music from various generations, blending the works of his contemporaries with newer artists. He exuberantly praised Beyoncé for inviting him to contribute to her recent album, indicating his enthusiasm for innovative and cross-generational collaboration. Alongside his musical endeavors, Nelson is politically active, recently advocating for the legalization of recreational marijuana and supporting Vice President Kamala Harris.

His activism goes hand-in-hand with his personal beliefs, particularly regarding the injustices faced by individuals incarcerated for minor drug offenses. Nelson not only throws his support behind political candidates but actively engages with fans to encourage voting and participation in the legalization movement.

In another exciting venture, Nelson and his wife are set to publish a cannabis cookbook inspired by his health needs. This project arose from his difficulties with smoking due to emphysema, leading them to explore cannabis-infused recipes that could improve his quality of life. Among these is a sweet potato hash, a dish that reflects both his taste and lifestyle.

Though recently wrapping up a tour with Bob Dylan, Nelson shows no signs of retirement. His unwavering passion for performing and creating music indicates that he has plenty left to give, with plans to resume touring in the near future.