DISQUS

WHarrisBullzEye · 1 year ago

The sparse production that Wexler provided to Willie Nelson's Atlantic albums was exactly what the material needed, but few other producers of the time would've allowed it. He was a major supporter of Willie when few others in the industry were, so much so that, when Wexler closed Atlantic's Nashville office, he let him out of his contract with the label. (It's not like anyone else would've allowed Willie to follow his muse like Wexler did.)

Even if you're not a Willie Nelson fan, you should really check out the above cuts. Ryan Adams had Willie re-cut "Sad Songs and Waltzes" when he produced an album for him, but this original version is infinitely more sad.

"I'm writing a song all about you,
A true song as real as my tears,
But you've no near to fear it,
'Cause no-one will hear it,
'Cause sad songs and waltzes aren't selling this year."

Kills me every time.

Zack · 1 year ago

Sheesh, we've lost a lot of amazingly talented people in 2008. And I doubt this will be the last. I fear that by the time we hit New Year's Eve, it will be safe to say that if you didn't die at some point during the previous twelve months, you probably suck.

Darren · 1 year ago

nice tribute, Ken...

aTart · 1 year ago

well, better late than never........... thank you Jerry xoxox

breadalbane · 1 year ago

Wexler produced some great music, but I believe you've credited him with one that he didn't produce: "When A Man Loves A Woman" was (according to my sources) produced in Muscle Shoals by Quin Ivy and Marlin Greene. As an Atlantic co-partner, though, Wexler would certainly have been responsible for signing Percy Sledge to the label.

kshane · 1 year ago

I've done some further research, and it appears that you are correct. It was Atlantic's first gold record, and as such, Wexler must have been deeply involved, but apparently not as producer. Sorry for the error.