Known for his powerhouse vocals, gritty guitar work, and genre-defying mix of country, blues, and rock, Chris Stapleton headlined night one of the second weekend of the Austin City Limits Festival with an unexpected guest: 91-year-old music legend Willie Nelson. The two musicians, sitting side by side, opened the set with a moving tribute to Nelson’s legacy, performing classics like “Whiskey River” and “Bloody Mary Morning.”
For longtime fans of both artists, this was more than just a series of duets—it was a passing of the torch. As the duo strummed their way through Nelson’s beloved hits, with Stapleton’s rich vocals pairing perfectly with Shotgun Willie’s distinctive sound, the performance felt like a love letter to Austin, a city where Nelson’s legacy has its roots.
This moment was especially poignant as Nelson is in town to celebrate a major milestone: the 50th anniversary of his 1974 appearance on the very first episode of the Austin City Limits television show. That historic performance not only launched the now-iconic PBS series, but also played a role in establishing Austin as a key player in the live music scene.
After Nelson’s departure from the stage, Stapleton performed a selection of his greatest hits. Highlights included “Tennessee Whiskey,” a song that’s become synonymous with the singer’s career, and “White Horse,” a track from last year’s Higher that served as a showcase for his incredible vocal range and knack for blending genres.
Check out our 10 favorite moments from this year’s Austin City Limits Festival.
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