The Oak Ridge Boys have been an iconic presence in music since the early 1940s, with their most renowned lineup solidified since 1972. Meanwhile, Willie Nelson, at 91, remains a legendary figure in country music. Despite their long-standing influence in the genre, these two music powerhouses had never collaborated in the studio—until now.
The historic collaboration comes in the form of the song “I Thought About You, Lord.” Originally written by Willie Nelson, the track first appeared on his 1996 album Spirit and was later re-recorded for his Family album in 2021. The Oak Ridge Boys were in the studio working on what would become their fifth project with producer Dave Cobb when Cobb introduced them to the song.
“When David Cobb played ‘I Thought About You, Lord,’ I felt like I was hearing a masterpiece,” said Duane Allen of the Oak Ridge Boys. “I realized Willie has collaborated with nearly everyone but us. So, I reached out to Buddy Cannon, who has been producing Willie lately, to ask if he’d sing his song with us. Buddy responded that Willie would be honored to do so. When Willie’s vocals were finished, the masterpiece was complete.”
The track is part of the Oak Ridge Boys’ upcoming album Mama’s Boys, which is set for release on October 25th. This album is not just a tribute to the Oak Ridge Boys’ own mothers but to mothers everywhere, reflecting the deep impact they have on all of our lives. True to their roots, the Oak Ridge Boys blend gospel influences into their music, staying connected to their spiritual beginnings.
In addition to the collaboration with Willie Nelson, Mama’s Boys will also feature songs like “Mama Sang For Me,” written by independent songwriter Conrad Fisher. Fisher shared his excitement about the project, noting how instrumental Buddy Cannon was in getting his song onto the album. “Buddy sent it to Duane in December 2022, and it’s been on hold since,” Fisher told Saving Country Music. “Duane emailed me two weeks ago and wants to meet for breakfast next time I’m in town. It’s going to be huge for my career.”
This album also marks a bittersweet moment in the Oak Ridge Boys’ history. It is the first project where Ben James will officially take over the tenor role after the passing of the legendary Joe Bonsall in early July. James had been stepping in for Bonsall during live performances, and the group continues with Bonsall’s blessing.
Mama’s Boys is available for pre-save and pre-order now, and fans can already listen to “I Thought About You, Lord,” featuring Willie Nelson.
Track List for Mama’s Boys:
That’s The Way Mama Made It
Mama’s Boys
Mama’s Teaching Angels How To Sing
Ever With Me
Her Voice
Mama Sang For Me
Come On Home
I Thought About You, Lord (featuring Willie Nelson)
Sweetest Gift
Divine Witness
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