Willie Nelson’s “Always On My Mind” Is The Story Of A Man Mourning His Lost Love

Country music outlaw Willie Nelson is widely known for his iconic vocals and recognizable sound. He has had a wide variety of hit songs and classic tunes, but there continues to be one ballad in particular that relentlessly breaks the hearts of listeners time after time.

The song “Always On My Mind” commonly referenced as the sorrowful, heartbreaking tune heard in the tear-jerking ASPCA commercials, was originally recorded by Gwen McCrae and Brenda Lee in 1972. Elvis Presley, John Wesley Ryles, and Loretta Lynn also recorded cover versions.

Nelson’s mournful rendition of the song not only became the biggest musical hit on the country music Billboard in 1982, but the hit ultimately landed him an admirable three Grammy Awards in 1983.

“Always On My Mind” conveys a deeply saddened man who admits that, although he perhaps did not treat the love of his life as well as he should have, she had permanently been on his mind despite her feelings of doubt and unimportance.

The bittersweet melody and gut-wrenching message of this heartbroken man admitting his mistakes is sure to leave you in tears and hopefully running to your significant other to express your gratitude.

Watch his incredible performance of “Always On My Mind” below.