Introduction
“It Always Will Be” might appear to be a duet by country music legends Willie Nelson and Ray Price, but the story behind the song goes a little deeper. While Willie Nelson undeniably popularized the tune, “It Always Will Be” originated with Ray Price.
Price, a pioneer of honky-tonk, released “It Always Will Be” in 1974 on his album “You’re the Only One.” The song, a melancholic ballad about enduring love despite distance and loneliness, resonated with Price’s signature smooth baritone.
However, “It Always Will Be” didn’t quite achieve mainstream success for Price. That changed when Willie Nelson, another Texan giant and a close friend of Price, covered the song on his 1982 album “Always on My Mind.” Nelson’s distinctive, weathered vocals and his knack for storytelling breathed new life into the ballad. “It Always Will Be” became a staple of Nelson’s live performances, finding a special place in the hearts of his fans.
There’s a special twist to the story. While performing “It Always Will Be” live, Nelson would often introduce it as a song written by his good friend Ray Price. This act of tribute not only showcased Nelson’s respect for Price but also brought wider recognition to the song Price had originally penned.
So, when you hear “It Always Will Be,” you’re not just listening to a country ballad. You’re experiencing a testament to friendship, a melody that traveled from one Texan legend to another, ultimately finding its place in the vast landscape of American country music. Prepare to be swept away by a tale of enduring love, painted with the signature styles of Ray Price and Willie Nelson.