Willie Nelson will not perform at Jones Beach season opening show
Willie Nelson performs during the Georgetown to Austin March for Democracy rally on July 31, 2021 in Austin, Texas. Credit: Getty Images/Brandon Bell
Due to an undisclosed health issue, Willie Nelson will not perform at Saturday's Outlaw Music Festival, which kicks off the summer season at Wantagh's Northwell at Jones Beach Theater, it was announced Friday. However, Bob Dylan, Robert Plant & Alison Krauss and Celisse will all appear as scheduled as will Nelson’s son, Lukas, 35, who will perform the 91-year-old country star's catalog with the Family Band. Nelson has already missed the opening five dates of the festival and is also skipping Friday's show in Syracuse.
“Willie Nelson has been cleared by his doctors to go back on the road again. He will resume performing on the Outlaw tour next week. Willie will not be on this weekend’s dates,” said a statement posted on Nelson’s social media outlets Friday. “
This marks the third statement released regarding Nelson’s health, although his issues remain undisclosed. Hours prior to the he tour launch at Ameris Bank Amphitheatre in Alpharetta, Georgia on June 21, the following statement was posted on social media: “We regret to inform you that Willie Nelson is not feeling well and, per doctor’s orders, has been advised to rest for the next four days. He expected to make a quick recovery and join the Outlaw Music Festival tour next week.”
However, on June 26 when Nelson was set to return, another statement was posted noting: “Willie Nelson will not be performing at tonight’s show in Virginia Beach. We expect Willie to return to the tour shortly.“
Fans showed their concern, posting messages of support like “Take all the time you need, Willie! Prayers for comfort and healing,” “Dear Willie, all the best wishes and get better soon!!,” “Feel better Willie. We love and miss you” and “Willie is a survivor. He will be okay!”
Nelson is touring to support his new album, “The Border,” featuring 10 newly recorded studio performances including his four new compositions with songwriter/producer Buddy Cannon. The title track, a cover of the Rodney Crowell and Allen Shamblin song, was released as the first single.
David J. Criblez is a reporter for Newsday's exploreLI, covering entertainment-related events from local music to stand-up comedy to festivals.