About the song
Willie Nelson and Keith Richards—two legends from opposite ends of the musical spectrum—come together for a deeply affecting rendition of “We Had It All.” Originally written by Donnie Fritts and Troy Seals, the song has been covered by a host of greats, from Waylon Jennings to the Rolling Stones. But in the hands of Nelson and Richards, it takes on a new kind of poignancy, shaped by their shared lifetime in music, their weathered voices, and the weight of their experiences.
At its core, “We Had It All” is a song of nostalgia and regret, a reflection on love lost and the lingering echoes of what once was. Nelson, with his signature phrasing and soft, aching delivery, brings an almost conversational quality to the lyrics, as if he’s speaking directly to an old love, recalling the past with both fondness and sorrow. Richards, known for his ragged, lived-in vocal style, complements Nelson beautifully, his voice carrying a sense of world-weary wisdom. Together, their harmonies don’t strive for perfection; instead, they lean into imperfection, into the cracks and creases that make a song feel real.
The instrumentation is understated yet evocative. Gentle acoustic guitar strumming, a touch of steel guitar, and Nelson’s unmistakable phrasing all create an atmosphere of quiet intimacy. It’s the kind of performance that doesn’t need embellishment—it relies on emotion, on the truth within the voices delivering it. In a way, it feels like a conversation between two old friends, reminiscing over a bottle of whiskey, lost in the haze of memory.
For both Nelson and Richards, this song isn’t just about singing the words—it’s about living them. They’ve seen the highs and lows of life, the fleeting nature of love, and the bittersweet beauty of looking back. And that’s what makes “We Had It All” resonate so deeply—it’s not just a song; it’s a testament to time, love, and the ache of remembering.
Video
Lyrics
I can hear the wind a blowing in my mind
Just the way it used to sound
Through the Georgia pines
And you were there to answer when I called
You and me we had it all
Remember how I used to touch your hair?
While reaching for the feeling
That was always there
You were the best thing in my life
I can recall you and me we had it all
I know that we can never live those times again
So I let my dreams take me back
To where we have been
Then I’ll stay with you girl as long as I can
Oh it was so good oh it was so good
Oh it was so good when I was your man
I’ll never stop believing in your smile
Even though you didn’t stay
It was all worthwhile
You were the best thing in my life
I can recall you and me we had it all
You and me we had it all
