Willie Nelson Reveals His Picks for the Greatest Country Song Ever

Country music artists have been churning out unforgettable tunes for generations, so choosing the best examples of the genre is a tall order. However, as Willie Nelson revealed in a recent interview, he definitely has an opinion on the matter. As Nelson explained to Forbes, he believes two classic songs represent the best that the genre has to offer.

“One of the greatest country songs ever written, Rodney [Crowell] wrote,” Nelson said. “It’s called ‘Till I Gain Control Again,’ and he’s a great writer.” Nelson’s other topic pick is a hit made famous by another legendary performer. “The other greatest song, country-wise, is George Jones, ‘He Stopped Loving Her Today,’ the singer said. “Those are, in my opinion, the two greatest country songs.”

Nelson Released an Album Honoring Crowell in 2025

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In April 2025, Nelson released a new album, “Oh What a Beautiful World.” As his official website notes, it is his 77th solo studio album, but that isn’t the only thing that makes it special. The album entirely focuses on songs Crowell wrote, paying homage to the highly accomplished songwriter’s catalog.

As Nelson’s website notes, the singer first recorded a Crowell song in 1983, but this new album includes songs from across the songwriter’s career. Arguably, the album’s title track is its greatest highlight, featuring Nelson and Crowell singing together. When talking to Forbes about working with Crowell, Nelson said: “It’s nice being able to do things with old friends. Like they say, they don’t make old friends.”

The ‘Highwayman’ Singer Collaborated With Jones Multiple Times

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Jones and Nelson are both legendary performers in their own right, and the two joined forces many times before Jones died in 2013. For example, as Jones’ official Facebook page shared, the two singers, along with fellow crooner Kris Kristofferson, once performed together in honor of Johnny Cash.

In 1979, Nelson also lent his voice to Jones’ album, “My Very Special Guests.” The album featured ten duets with other country artists, and Nelson appears on the track “I Gotta Get Drunk.” Jones later returned the favor, singing alongside Nelson on “Half a Man” for the 1985 album “Half Nelson.”