Amazing Grace

In this moving rendition of the famed “Amazing Grace,” Willie Nelson and Maddie teamed up to sing for the farmers at Farm Aid. This beloved Christian Hymn was published in 1779 and was authored by John Newton. Newton wrote the words from personal experience and his subsequent conversion to the ways of the Lord.

This is by far one of the most popular and the most covered gospel songs. It features heartfelt lyrics describing profound religious joy where everyone can relate to and rejoice. It is estimated to have appeared on more than 11,000 albums including the albums by Ray Charles, Elvis Presley, and Diana Ross.

Nelson opens the concert with the gospel ballad with his outlaw twist. Listen to the amazing (literally!) rendition right here!

Farm Aid

Farm Aid is an organization that works to increase awareness of the importance of family farms and puts on an annual concert of country, blues and rock music with a variety of stars.

It started as a benefit concert to raise money for family farmers in the United States. It was the brainchild of Nelson, John Mellencamp, and Neil Young. The idea is due in part of Bob Dylan’s comments at a Live Aid concert. Dylan commented that he hoped that some of the money would help American farmers in danger of losing their farms through mortgage debt.

Their first concert was at the University of Illinois’ Memorial Stadium on the 22nd of September in 1985. The audience was close to 80, 000 people. The performers included Bob Dylan, Billie Joel, B.B. King, Roy Orbison, and Tom Petty. They raised over $9 million for U.S family farmers.

But, it does not stop with just singing and performing. Nelson and Mellencamp brought the idea of protecting family farmers before Congress to testify about the state of family farming in America. Congress then subsequently passed the Agricultural Credit Act of 1987 to help save family farms for foreclosure.

This is a prime example of having music change the world. Good on you, Willie!