In a world of heaviness, it’s important at times to remember to keep things light and airy. We only have this one chance at life, and while it’s important to acknowledge the heaviness that can surround us, it’s also vital to make sure that it does not rule your life because there is so much good that comes with walking this planet. You get to form friendships, fall in love, raise pets and children, share experiences with those you love, and dance like nobody is watching.
Lily Meola is highlighting just that on her latest single featuring the legendary Willie Nelson, “Tumbleweeds and Chewing Gum,” a song about living life to the best of your ability:
Lily Meola is one of the most promising names in country music. The Hawaii native has been on a roll collaborating with country music icons, having teamed up with Jamey Johnson on a beautiful, slow, heart-wrenching ballad, “Never Want This To Change.” But Meola is used to being around country music icons, as Willie Nelson has been a longtime mentor of the rising songbird. Lily’s late mother, Nancy, was very close to Willie’s wife, Annie D’Angelo, and Willie used to go with Annie and Nancy to watch Lily play at local cafes when she was a teenager. It did not take long for Willie Nelson to take her under his wing, taking her out on the road and working with her in the studio.
Knowing this history, this collaboration has been a long time coming.
Sonically, this song is soft and gentle, playing into the listener’s inner child with a whimsical feel. The song brings in elements of Meola’s island background, with an easy, breezy feel as the soothing lyrics wash over your ears.
“This song is about not taking things too seriously. Life is short, and we’re all just figuring it out day by day. Give yourself some grace, do the things that bring you joy, and share the love that you’ve got.”
Meola says regarding the song’s lyrical content. Her strong yet gentle vocals deliver the lyrics penned alongside Nicholas Lobel, Riley Biederer, and Melissa Fuller that sometimes you need to slow down, enjoy the ride, and play the long game like “Tumbleweeds and Chewing Gum.”
“Tweedle dee, tweedle dum
Why the hurry, baby, what’s the rush?
Tumbleweeds and chewing gum
They’ll be hanging ’round long after us
So kiss me just because”
The addition of Willie Nelson to this song not only makes it one to listen to from the jump, but his vocals on the track instill a sense of wisdom, giving the words a gravity that a younger Meola conveys. If Nelson agrees that you need to slow down and enjoy life, you’d better listen.
“From the first line, you know the song’s a hit, and Lily’s beautiful voice goes perfectly with the song.”
Willie Nelson shared in a press release regarding the single. This is a beautiful single with a message we can all hear, and the family connection of these two artists makes it cut even deeper.
