"Make Way for Willie Nelson" is an album by the renowned American country musician, Willie Nelson. Released in 1967, the album marks Nelson's last release during his tenure with RCA Records. Unlike his previous albums, this one carries a noticeable folk music influence, featuring covers of songs by popular folk artists like Tom Paxton and Fred Neil. The album was produced by Chet Atkins and Felton Jarvis and includes 12 tracks.
The record includes impressive numbers like "One in a Row", "You Left Me a Long, Long Time Ago", and "Bring Me Sunshine". The album's single, "The Party's Over" peaked at number 2 on Billboard's Hot Country Songs Chart, and the album received positive reviews from critics.
Despite the success of the album, it marks the end of a challenging era in Nelson's career, as his tension with RCA's polished Nashville sound strained his relationship with the label and led him to eventually leave for Atlantic Records. There he garnered immense success and popularity, setting his iconic Outlaw country image akin to the raw and non-traditional production.
Nelson's unique rendition of folk songs combined with his traditional country sound in "Make Way for Willie Nelson" forms an essential part of his extensive discography, marking a transition in his musical style and career.
