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American Classic

American Classic is the 57th studio album by American country music artist Willie Nelson, released on August 25, 2009. It focuses on the American popular songbook and standard jazz classics, and includes guest appearances by Norah Jones and Diana Krall.

Not to be confused with U.S. Classic.

Recording[edit]

In 2008, Nelson met at his ranch in Austin, Texas with his producer Tommy Lipuma, and jazzman Joe Sample to select the songs for the album. The twelve songs selected were a collection of classics, that included a re-recording by Nelson of Always on My Mind. A duet with Barbra Streisand was planned for the recording of the album, that ultimately was not performed.[1] The photo in the cover of the album was taken in Nelson's ranch by photographer Danny Clinch.[2]

Willie Nelson - guitar, vocals

- piano, arrangements

Joe Sample

- piano, vocals

Norah Jones

- harmonica

Mickey Raphael

- piano, vocals

Diana Krall

- guitar

Anthony Wilson

- drums

Lewis Nash

- drums

Jeff Hamilton

- bass guitar

Christian McBride

- bass guitar

Robert Hurst

Jim Cox - Hammond B3 organ

Jeff Clayton - alto saxophone