Omnivore Recordings has re-released the 1997 Lowell George tribute album, Rock and Roll Doctor: Lowell George Tribute Album. The record includes covers by folks like Taj Mahal, Bonnie Raitt, Chris Hillman and Randy Newman. But the re-issue also features a new track, “Willin’,” which features Willie Nelson, Emmylou Harris and Lowell George’s daughter, Inara George. The track is a beautiful take, with the weary voices of Nelson and George combined with the beauty of Harris’ to make something really special.
“It’s hard to believe how many years have passed since this album was first recorded,” said Inara George. “I remember how meaningful it was to sing ‘Trouble’ with Van Dyke Parks and Ry Cooder. They were both friends of my dad, which made it even more special. So to be able to add my voice, so many years later, to a track with such greats as Emmylou Harris and Willie Nelson feels like a perfect bookend. It’s such a gift to celebrate my father’s work alongside his musical peers.”
Lowell George started his career as a musician in Frank Zappa‘s Mothers of Invention, before leaving to start his own band, Little Feat. That band broke up in 1979, followed quickly by George’s solo debut. However, also that year George passed away at only age 34.
Omnivore will release the vinyl version of this album April 18th (Record Store Day) with CD and digital to follow on April 24th.
