Willie Nelson and Merle Haggard's collaborative studio album, Django and Jimmie, is a testament to the enduring legacy of country music's finest legends. Released on 2 June 2015 by Legacy Recordings, this 14-track masterpiece marks the sixth and final joint effort from the iconic duo. With a duration of 46 minutes, the album is a poignant reflection of their shared experiences and musical influences.
The album's title track, 'Django and Jimmie', is a heartfelt tribute to jazz guitarist Django Reinhardt and country music's mythic 'Singing Brakeman', Jimmie Rodgers. Other notable tracks include 'It's All Going to Pot', 'Unfair Weather Friend', and 'Live This Long', which showcase the duo's ability to craft storytelling songs that are both reflective and meditative.
Django and Jimmie is a culmination of Nelson and Haggard's 20-year hiatus from collaborative work, and it does not disappoint. The album debuted at number one on the Billboard country charts and received widespread critical acclaim. Tragically, it would also be Merle Haggard's final studio album, released just 10 months before his passing in April 2016.
This album is a must-listen for fans of traditional country and honky-tonk music, as it embodies the spirit of Willie Nelson and Merle Haggard's timeless partnership. With its unique blend of country, jazz, and folk influences, Django and Jimmie is an unforgettable listening experience that will leave a lasting impression on all who hear it.