City of Garland, TX
02/15/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 02/15/2025 12:10
Songs & Stories Celebrating 50th Anniversary of Willie Nelson’s “Read Headed Stranger” May 16-17
In May 1975, Willie Nelson released his iconic and career-changing album, "Red Headed Stranger." Recorded in Garland at Autumn Sound Studio (now Audio Dallas), it is regarded as one of the greatest albums in country music and helped ignite the outlaw movement as well as cement Willie's place in musical history.
Join us May 16 and 17 to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of "Red Headed Stranger" in Downtown Garland. The celebrations kick off Friday, May 16 with a theatrical screening of Nelson's 1986 film, "Red Headed Stranger" (rated R) courtesy of Shout!Factory at the historic Plaza Theatre. Prior to the movie, author and journalist Michael Granberry will host a conversation about Willie, his music and the lasting impact of this album with Nelson biographer Joe Nick Patoski. North Texas' own Joshua Ray Walker will contribute to the discussion revealing his own personal connection to the album.
On May 17 at the Granville Arts Center, audiences will experience a one-time-only, unforgettable night of music featuring a slate of Texas artists to recreate songs from the album, including Ray Benson (Asleep at the Wheel),RhettMiller (Old 97's), Joshua Ray Walker along with Max and Heather Stalling. Artists will take turns playing songs from "Red Headed Stranger," and share stories about what this important historic album means to them, and its significance to country music - as well as to their connection to the City of Garland. The Band of Strangers, led by Joshua Ray Walker's producer, JohnPedigo, will provide sparse instrumentation behind these artists to help create the authenticity of this truly amazing album.
Audiences will also enjoy a special exhibit displaying Willie Nelson memorabilia from the Texas Music Collection of The Wittliff Collections, located at Texas State University and dedicated to the celebration, preservation and study of the state's musical heritage. Willie's original tour bus "Honeysuckle Rose" will also be on-site for photo opportunities.
Be sure to arrive early in the afternoon May 17 to experience North Texas artists performing throughout Downtown Garland for the "Fringe Concert Series." Musicians perform from 3 to 6 p.m. at Fortunate Son, Intrinsic Brewery and the newly opened Dead Wax Records. Featured artists will include Nathan "Mongol" Wells, Frankie Leonie, Doug Burr, Jackson Scribner, Levi Scribner, Remy Reilly, David Forsyth and more. More details to follow soon!
Also joining the event will be representatives from the Texas Music Office to officially certify Garland as a "Music Friendly City" - a coveted accolade shared by Dallas, Fort Worth, Austin and many others.
Dallas-based artist Bryan Peterson has created original artwork for this event. Peterson works in an illustration style and is the Texas Songwriters' Hall of Fame featured artist.
Songs & Stories Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of Willie Nelson's "Red Headed Stranger" will be a truly significant time of music, celebration and honoring an amazing work that not only changed country music forever, but also for those choosing to follow in its iconic footsteps.
Friday, May 16:
"Red Headed Stranger" Film Screening
Panel discussion with journalist Michael Granberry, Nelson biographer Joe Nick Patoski and artist Joshua Ray Walker
7 p.m. at The Plaza Theatre
General Admission: $15
Saturday, May 17:
"Red Headed Stranger" Fringe Concert Series
3 to 6 p.m.
Intrinsic Brewery, Fortunate Son, Dead Wax Records
Free music in Downtown Garland
"Red Headed Stranger" 50th Anniversary Tribute Concert
Featuring Ray Benson, Rhett Miller, Joshua Ray Walker, Max and Heather Stalling, with John Pedigo and The Band of Strangers
8 p.m. in the Brownlee Auditorium at Granville Arts Center
Includes exhibit showcasing memorabilia from The Wittliff Collections and photo ops with Willie Nelson's bus, "Honeysuckle Rose"
Reserved Seating: $75-105