Amanda Shires is a GRAMMY Award-winning singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and violinist from Lubbock, Texas. Not too long ago, she and the late, great pianist and singer, Bobbie Nelson, shined bright on their haunting rendition of Willie Nelson’s classic single, “Always On My Mind.”
Amanda Shires and Bobbie Nelson – “Always On My Mind” official visualizer
“Bobbie Nelson’s life happened in revival tents and roadhouses, old theaters, and glittering arenas, recording studios, and church pews. She survived abandonment and abuse. Her children were taken from her, so she fought until she won them back. She was spiritual, determined, strong, and generous with her love. She made a path for women, for mothers even, in the male-dominated music business. You can read her incredible story in the book ‘Me and Sister Bobbie.’ You should, but you can hear who Bobbie was when you listen to her play the piano. Bobbie Nelson was a believer, a mother, an artist, a lover, a sister, a grandmother, and a friend. She passed away on March 10, 2022, just months after we spent time together in Austin recording this album. We chose these songs because they’re songs that she loved, songs that meant the world to her and her personal journey. Through her music she will live on.” – Amanda Shires explained
‘Always on My Mind’ (a smash for Elvis Presley in 1972 and a Grammy-winning #1 hit for Willie Nelson a decade later) feels especially poignant as interpreted by Bobbie and Amanda, with Nelson’s graceful, wistful piano melodies blending perfectly with Amanda’s soaring vocals and stirring fiddle lines.
Furthermore, “Always On My Mind” is the second single to be released from the forthcoming collaborative album, “Loving You,” available on June 23rd via Silver Knife/ATO Records. Recorded prior to Nelson’s passing, “Loving You” is “a reflection on the life and music of Bobbie Nelson,” says Amanda.
Amanda Shires & Bobbie Nelson – “Loving You” album
The recording of “Always on My Mind” was the starting point for “Loving You.” In April of 2021, Amanda was working on her wildly acclaimed album, “Take It Like a Man,” and considered including “Always on My Mind” on the album. She booked studio time with Nelson, “because the only piano that fits that song is Bobbie’s,” says Amanda. Once together in the studio, their deep musical connection was undeniable. Amanda and Bobbie decided the two should start their own band, and saved the track for what would eventually become “Loving You.”
To celebrate the release of “Loving You,” Amanda has announced two special shows in Texas honoring Bobbie Nelson’s legacy and the rich history of Texas music. Amanda will be performing at two legendary dance halls, with accompaniment by the iconic band, Asleep At The Wheel, on July 8th at The Longhorn Ballroom in Dallas and July 9th at Gruene Hall in New Braunfels. Tickets are on sale now – more information is available HERE. Texas indie record stores will also carry an exclusive, limited edition blue vinyl version of “Loving You;” preorder is available HERE via Waterloo Records, Good Records & End of an Ear for the first 500 people who sign up.
Amanda Shires & Bobbie Nelson – “Summertime” (Official Video) (Feat. Willie Nelson)
‘Loving You’ was a labor of love for all involved, featuring many favorites shared by Amanda and Nelson, including the first single, “Summertime,” an emotive cover of the Gershwin classic, featuring a guest appearance from Bobbie’s brother, Willie Nelson.
The video was co-directed by Amanda and Deren Ney, with footage captured by photographer, Joshua Black Wilkins, and album producer, Lawrence Rothman, at Arlyn Studios in Austin, Texas, during the album recording session. The facility is co-owned and operated by Bobbie Nelson’s son, Freddy Fletcher, who also plays drums on the album, making the endeavor a true family affair.
Amanda Shires
Since getting her start playing fiddle with the legendary Texas Playboys at the young age of 15, Amanda Shires has brought her nuanced songwriting and boundless originality to a series of solo albums, collaborated with the likes of John Prine, and earned the 2017 Emerging Artist of the Year prize from the Americana Music Association (AMA). Also, a member of Jason Isbell’s 400 Unit, Amanda is the founder of The Highwomen – a supergroup she performs in alongside Natalie Hemby, Maren Morris, and Brandi Carlile.
In 2022, Amanda released the lauded album, “Take It Like A Man,” featuring Jason Isbell on guitar and guest vocals by Maren Morris and Brittney Spencer. Following its release, Amanda embarked on a triumphant US tour, with Variety, including her show at LA’s Troubadour on their Top 50 concerts of the year alongside the likes of Bad Bunny, Elton John, and Lady Gaga.
“Always On My Mind” single
We recommend adding Amanda Shires’ and Bobbie Nelson’s “Always On My Mind” single to your favorite Americana/Country playlist. Also, let us know how you feel in the comment section below. Mel Blanc’s famous catchphrase, That’s All Folks! Thanks for reading another great article on Bong Mines Entertainment – the hot spot for new music and entertainment news. Always remember that (P) Positive, (E) Energy, (A) Always, (C) Creates, (E) Elevation (P.E.A.C.E). Contact us on social media via Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, or Facebook, and let us know what’s going on. Also, don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter, purchase our merchandise, and become a Patron of Bong Mines Entertainment. Disclaimer: This post contains Apple Music affiliate links. If you make a purchase after clicking a link on this page, we will collect a small share of the sales. That little compensation will be used towards keeping this website up and running.