Skip to content
Wednesday 21 January 2026
Trending
December 7, 2025Michael Bublé Reveals Surprise “Old School” Country Album: A “Love Letter” to the Genre December 7, 2025Country Music’s Top Stories: December 7th Marks Major Milestones and Memorable Moments December 6, 2025Taylor Swift’s ‘Showgirl’ Era Takes Center Stage at Country Music Hall of Fame Exhibit December 6, 2025Country Music Hall of Fame Features Lainey Wilson & Hit Songwriting Partners in Special Writers Round December 6, 2025December 6: Top Country Music Moments and Milestones December 5, 2025Zac Brown Band Drops ‘Love & Fear’ Album. Historic Las Vegas Sphere Residency Kicks Off. December 5, 2025Zac Brown Band Charts New Territory with Introspective ‘Love & Fear’ Album and Sphere Residency December 5, 2025Megan Moroney Launches ‘Cloud 9 World Tour’ Supporting Upcoming Album December 5, 2025Post Malone to Ignite Super Bowl LX Weekend with Free San Francisco Concert December 5, 2025Bailee Ann Gifts Parents Jelly Roll & Bunnie XO Dream Prom Night They Never Had
Country Music News
Country Music News
Country Music News
Country Music News
  • Home
  • Artists
  • Awards
  • Events
  • Headlines
  • Industry
  • Interviews
  • Music
  • Reviews
  • Tours
  • LIVE
Country Music News
  • Home
  • Artists
  • Awards
  • Events
  • Headlines
  • Industry
  • Interviews
  • Music
  • Reviews
  • Tours
Country Music News
Country Music News
Music
Music

Willie Nelson Delights Fans with New Holiday Single ‘Christmas Love Song’ Ahead of Merle Haggard Tribute Album

Javi ReyesJavi ReyesNovember 4, 20254 Minutes read

Get ready for a heartwarming Willie Nelson Christmas season with the release of his touching new single, “Christmas Love Song,” unveiled on October 24, 2025. This festive track serves as a delightful prelude to his eagerly awaited studio album, “Workin’ Man: Willie Sings Merle,” scheduled for November 7, 2025. This latest Willie Nelson Christmas offering highlights the enduring prolificacy of this country music legend, adding another gem to his celebrated discography and a new entry for Willie Nelson Christmas music.

A New Willie Nelson Christmas Melody Arrives

The newly released single, “Christmas Love Song,” is a beautiful testament to Nelson’s talent for crafting enduring melodies that capture the essence of the holiday spirit. This special Willie Nelson Christmas song was co-written by the esteemed Bill Anderson, along with Bobby Tomberlin and Marv Green. The track was expertly produced by Willie’s long-time collaborator, Buddy Cannon, and features a warm, inviting arrangement that perfectly complements Nelson’s signature vocal style. Anticipation is building for the lyric video, set to premiere on November 18, further enhancing the excitement for this significant Willie Nelson Christmas release.

The lyrics of “Christmas Love Song” convey a sincere message of affection, featuring heartfelt lines like, “It ain’t a lot but every word of it’s true. It don’t sparkle or shine. But it’s one of a kind. And I put my whole heart into. This Christmas love song to you”. Adding to the song’s rich texture are the iconic harmonica solos by Mickey Raphael, a sound that has become synonymous with Willie Nelson’s music for decades. The inclusion of guitar and jingle bells further enhances the song’s festive charm, making it an essential addition to any Willie Nelson Christmas playlist.

A Willie Nelson Christmas Tribute to a Country Icon

Nelson’s forthcoming album, “Workin’ Man: Willie Sings Merle,” is a deeply personal project that honors his close friend and fellow outlaw country pioneer, Merle Haggard. This significant Merle Haggard tribute features Nelson’s heartfelt interpretations of eleven classic Haggard tunes, offering his unique perspective on the legendary songwriter’s beloved catalog. This collection marks Nelson’s 78th solo studio album and his 155th release overall, a remarkable achievement that underscores his sustained career and makes this a must-have for fans of Willie Nelson Christmas music and new country music alike.

The tracklist for “Workin’ Man: Willie Sings Merle” includes timeless Haggard anthems such as “Workin’ Man Blues,” “Silver Wings,” “Mama Tried,” and “Okie From Muskogee.” The album promises to showcase Nelson’s soulful artistry on songs that have already become cornerstones of country music history. Notably, this album contains the final studio recordings featuring Bobbie Nelson and Paul English, long-standing members of Nelson’s band, adding a poignant layer to the project and enhancing the anticipation for the holiday season’s Willie Nelson Christmas offerings and holiday music 2025.

The Enduring Friendship of Nelson and Haggard

Willie Nelson and Merle Haggard shared a profound musical connection and a deep personal friendship that lasted for decades. Their collaborations include the iconic 1983 album “Pancho & Lefty,” the 2007 collection “Last of the Breed” (also featuring Ray Price), and their final joint album, “Django and Jimmie,” released in 2015. Haggard, a towering figure in country music celebrated for his raw honesty and masterful storytelling, is honored on “Workin’ Man: Willie Sings Merle” through Nelson’s respectful and moving renditions, a perfect companion to any Willie Nelson Christmas celebration.

The Signature Sound of Mickey Raphael on Willie Nelson Christmas

Mickey Raphael, a celebrated harmonica virtuoso, has been an integral part of Willie Nelson’s band, The Family, since 1973. His distinctive harmonica playing has added emotional depth and texture to countless Nelson recordings and live performances. Raphael’s contribution to “Christmas Love Song” further enriches the track’s warm, classic feel, blending seamlessly with Nelson’s iconic guitar playing. His extensive career also includes collaborations with a diverse range of artists across genres, solidifying his reputation as one of the industry’s most respected harmonica players and a key element in the magic of a Willie Nelson Christmas.

A Career That Keeps on Giving: Willie Nelson Christmas and Beyond

At 92 years old, Willie Nelson continues to astound with his prolific output of new music. This new holiday single and tribute album follow a career defined by relentless touring and recording, including his beloved 1979 Christmas album, “Pretty Paper,” which remains a cherished holiday music staple. Nelson’s consistent ability to deliver fresh material, whether a new holiday song or a thoughtful tribute, cements his legendary status in country music and beyond, ensuring that every Willie Nelson Christmas is a memorable event.

The release of “Christmas Love Song” and the forthcoming “Workin’ Man: Willie Sings Merle” offer fans a dual celebration of the holiday season and the enduring legacy of country music icons. These new musical endeavors from Willie Nelson, including this delightful Willie Nelson Christmas single, are destined to become cherished additions to his vast and influential discography.

Further reading: Related News on Google

Related reading

  • WFHB Top Albums November 4, 2025: Posthumous Waylon Jennings Gem Headlines Eclectic Mix Featuring Carlile, Shires, Tweedy, and More
  • Trisha Yearwood Delights Fans with “Christmastime” Album and “12 Days of Christmas Tour”
  • New Country Music Drops on October 31st: A Comprehensive Look at This Week’s Hottest Releases
  • Bailey Zimmerman Drops “Comin’ In Cold” Music Video, Offering a Gritty Glimpse into New Album ‘Different Night Same Rodeo’
Tags
AlbumharmonicaMerle Haggardseason
FacebookTwitterWhatsAppLinkedInEmailLink

Javi Reyes

Javi is a seasoned music journalist who has been covering the country music scene for over a decade. He got his start in radio, where he honed his interviewing skills and developed a deep knowledge of the genre. Javi's articles are known for their insider's perspective and his ability to get artists to open up about their lives and their music

Previous post Country Music’s November Buzz: Underwood’s Record Sales, Walk of Fame Honors, and Chart-Topping Artists
next post WFHB Top Albums November 4, 2025: Posthumous Waylon Jennings Gem Headlines Eclectic Mix Featuring Carlile, Shires, Tweedy, and More
Related posts
  • Related posts
  • More from author
Music

Zac Brown Band Drops ‘Love & Fear’ Album. Historic Las Vegas Sphere Residency Kicks Off.

December 5, 20250
Music

Tucker Wetmore Drops Surprise New Song ‘Proving Me Right’ After Acclaimed Debut Album

December 5, 20250
Music

Trace Adkins Unveils Heartfelt “One More Christmas” Ballad Amidst Busy Holiday Season

December 2, 20250
Load more
Read also
Interviews

Michael Bublé Reveals Surprise “Old School” Country Album: A “Love Letter” to the Genre

December 7, 20250
Headlines

Country Music’s Top Stories: December 7th Marks Major Milestones and Memorable Moments

December 7, 20250
Industry

Taylor Swift’s ‘Showgirl’ Era Takes Center Stage at Country Music Hall of Fame Exhibit

December 6, 20250
Awards

Country Music Hall of Fame Features Lainey Wilson & Hit Songwriting Partners in Special Writers Round

December 6, 20250
Headlines

December 6: Top Country Music Moments and Milestones

December 6, 20250
Music

Zac Brown Band Drops ‘Love & Fear’ Album. Historic Las Vegas Sphere Residency Kicks Off.

December 5, 20250
Load more
Latest news
1

Carter Faith Unveils Debut Album ‘Cherry Valley’: A Genre-Bending Journey of Heartbreak, Love, and Nashville Grit

October 1, 2025
2

Jason Aldean Reflects on Career Milestones in Candid ‘American Country Countdown’ Interview

May 31, 2025
3

Country Music’s November Rush: Holiday Albums Abound, New Stars Emerge, and Iconic Venues Buzz with Live Performances

November 10, 2025
4

Fort Worth’s ‘Hood Country’ Star C’ing Jerome Charged with Murder in Deadly Shooting

August 22, 2025
5

Lainey Wilson and Morgan Evans to Headline the 2026 Howlin’ Country Festival

August 10, 2025
Popular
1

Becca Bowen Unveils Most Personal Song Yet, ‘Mama’s Prayer,’ A Soulful Tribute to Faith and Resilience

September 22, 2025
2

July 11th, 2025: A Major Release Day for Country and Roots Music Fans

July 10, 2025
3

Country Music Pulse: VMAs Embrace New Category, Zach Bryan Faces Restraining Order Rumors, and Post Malone’s Security Concerns

August 6, 2025
4

Kacey Musgraves Advocates for Authenticity and Inclusivity in Country Music’s Future

July 26, 2025
5

Country Music Heats Up July 14th with Major Releases and Surprising Collaborations

July 14, 2025
Most recent

Michael Bublé Reveals Surprise “Old School” Country Album: A “Love Letter” to the Genre

December 7, 2025

Country Music’s Top Stories: December 7th Marks Major Milestones and Memorable Moments

December 7, 2025

Taylor Swift’s ‘Showgirl’ Era Takes Center Stage at Country Music Hall of Fame Exhibit

December 6, 2025

Country Music Hall of Fame Features Lainey Wilson & Hit Songwriting Partners in Special Writers Round

December 6, 2025
Top posts

Categories

  • Headlines191
  • Music156
  • Artists134
  • Industry88
  • Interviews85
  • Events72
  • Awards51
  • Tours48
  • Reviews46

country music news © Copyright All Rights Reserved 2025

  • Contact
  • Privacy Policy
  • Cookie Policy
Country Music News Manage Consent
To provide the best experiences, we use technologies like cookies to store and/or access device information. Consenting to these technologies will allow us to process data such as browsing behavior or unique IDs on this site. Not consenting or withdrawing consent, may adversely affect certain features and functions.
Functional Always active
The technical storage or access is strictly necessary for the legitimate purpose of enabling the use of a specific service explicitly requested by the subscriber or user, or for the sole purpose of carrying out the transmission of a communication over an electronic communications network.
Preferences
The technical storage or access is necessary for the legitimate purpose of storing preferences that are not requested by the subscriber or user.
Statistics
The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for statistical purposes. The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for anonymous statistical purposes. Without a subpoena, voluntary compliance on the part of your Internet Service Provider, or additional records from a third party, information stored or retrieved for this purpose alone cannot usually be used to identify you.
Marketing
The technical storage or access is required to create user profiles to send advertising, or to track the user on a website or across several websites for similar marketing purposes.
Manage options Manage services Manage {vendor_count} vendors Read more about these purposes
View preferences
{title} {title} {title}