This record catapulted Willie Nelson into superstar status. Rarely have commercial and critical success joined together so strongly. I admit that this is the record that turned me into a Willie fan—which I remain these nearly 40 years later. A tragic story, as if told around the campfire, of love lost, revenge gained, and an ensuing life on the run, with a hint of redemption at the end. Country music at its best. Classic songs include “Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain,” “Time of the Preacher,” “Remember Me,” and “Hands on the Wheel.”

Columbia Records, 1975. [All-Music Guide review]

Here’s #63.