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Bobbie Lee Nelson, Willie Nelson’s “Little Sister” And Musical Partner, Died At 91

Bobbie Nelson, Willie Nelson’s Sister And Bandmate, Has Died At 91
by
  • Arden is a Senior Country Music Journalist for Country Thang Daily, specializing in classic hits and contemporary chart-toppers.
  • Prior to joining Country Thang Daily, Arden wrote for Billboard and People magazine, covering country music legends and emerging artists.
  • Arden holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from the University of Tennessee, with a minor in Music Studies.

Bobbie Lee Nelson, whom Willie Nelson referred to as his “little sister” despite him being a couple of years younger than her, has died peacefully, surrounded by family at the age of 91. 

The sad news of her death was announced on Willie Nelson’s Instagram. “Her elegance, grace, beauty, and talent made this world a better place,” the family statement said, adding that their hearts are broken. “But we are so lucky to have had her in our lives. Please keep her family in your thoughts and give them the privacy they need at this time.”

However, the cause of her demise was not revealed.

She Was a Singer, Pianist, and The First Member Of The Willie Nelson Family Band

RELATED: Heads Up! Willie Nelson and Bobbie Nelson’s Memoir is Due to be Out this Year

Bobbie Lee Nelson was a singer who was introduced to music at a young age by her grandparents. She got into music through school acts and church performances together with her brother Willie Nelson, whom she was raised in Abbot, Texas. Bobbie was only six while Willie was four when they learned “The Great Speckled Bird” – it was the very moment their musical relationship was forged.

In 2017, she released “Audiobiography.” This is her first and only solo album, which comprises piano instrumentals. She may not go out on her own, Willie’s fans are already familiar with her talent. Willie and Bobbie joined forces together several times to release a series of gospel albums, including 1986’s I’d Rather Have Jesus and 1997’s Hill Country Christmas.

Just last year, the duo released “The Willie Nelson Family,” in which Willie’s children joined them, including his sons Lukas and Micah. 

Willie and Bobbie also co-authored two books together, where they detailed their special relationship and musical bond. Indeed, their relationship as brother and sister is something that’s beyond compare.

Our condolences to the bereaved family.

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