Nelson, Willie - Shotgun Willie (Atlantic 75 Series, Analogue Productions, 180 Gram, 45 RPM, 2LP)

Before Shotgun Willie, Willie Nelson had struggled to gain widespread recognition as a solo artist, despite having written many successful songs for other artists. Nelson's big break came when he signed with Atlantic Records in 1973. The pivotal moment in his career came after Atlantic Records executive Jerry Wexler, known for his work with artists like Ray Charles and Aretha Franklin, took an interest in Nelson's music. Wexler saw potential in Nelson's unique approach to country music and signed him to the label. With the creative freedom offered by Atlantic Records, Nelson was able to record Shotgun Willie with the artistic freedom he had long desired. The album's unconventional sound and honest lyrics resonated with both critics and fans. Shotgun Willie marked a new beginning for Willie Nelson's career, and it set the stage for his subsequent albums and his emergence as one of the most influential and iconic figures in the history of country music. The recording was one of the first