About the song
In the rich tapestry of American music, few figures loom as large as Willie Nelson. His distinctive voice and evocative songwriting have been the soundtrack to many lives, weaving stories of love, loss, and the human experience. It’s a rare and poignant moment when such a legend collaborates with his progeny, offering a glimpse into the personal bonds that shape their artistry. “Die When I’m High (Halfway to Heaven)” is one such collaboration, uniting Willie Nelson with his son, Micah Nelson, who performs under the moniker Particle Kid.
The genesis of this song is as heartfelt as its lyrics. In December 2020, amidst leisurely games of chess and dominos, Willie mused to Micah, “If I die when I’m high, I’ll be halfway to heaven.” This candid reflection struck a chord with Micah, who recognized it as a profound song title. Encouraged by his father to develop the idea, Micah penned the song that very night, crafting it as a tribute to Willie—a love letter from son to father.
Musically, the track is a slow, self-reflective ballad that echoes the introspective style of a younger Willie. It delves into themes of aging and mortality, subjects Willie has often explored in his extensive career. The song has been performed live by the duo prior to its official release, offering audiences a glimpse into their shared musical journey. Upon its release, Micah also unveiled a self-directed, edited, and animated music video. The visual narrative features drawings of the father-son duo set against scenic backdrops of fields, blue skies, and archival performance footage, further emphasizing their deep connection.
The lyrics of “Die When I’m High (Halfway to Heaven)” are imbued with a blend of humor and wisdom, reflecting on life’s journey and the unexpected paths it takes. Lines like “Well, I figured Trigger would outlive my liver, but I’m still here writing songs” showcase Willie’s signature wit, while “They say use it or lose it, and I’ll do it again; my half-crazy mind is my oldest friend” speak to a life lived fully, embracing both its challenges and joys.
Micah’s reflections on the song provide deeper insight into its creation and his relationship with his father. He acknowledges the uniqueness of Willie, stating, “I would never try to be him, or even pretend, because nobody will ever be him.” This sentiment underscores the respect and admiration he holds for his father, as well as his desire to honor Willie’s legacy in his own distinct way.
For those who have followed Willie’s storied career, this collaboration offers a touching continuation of his musical narrative, enriched by the inclusion of his son. It’s a testament to the enduring power of music to bridge generations, capturing the essence of life’s fleeting moments and the bonds that define us. As you listen to “Die When I’m High (Halfway to Heaven),” you’re invited to reflect on your own journey, the legacies we inherit, and the new paths we forge.
Video
Lyrics
well i figured trigger would outlive my liver
but i’m still here writing songs
or if i reached my age, i’d forget how to play
well i guess i proved me wrong
they say use it or lose it and i’ll do it again
my half+crazy mind is my oldest friend[verse 2: willie nelson]
i never expected my redneck confessions
would be sung by this old man
or if livings so hard, i could make it this far
i said, “catch me if you can”[pre+chorus: particle kid & willie nelson]
use it or lose it
and i’ll do it again
that lost highway life is my oldest friend[chorus: particle kid & willie nelson]
i was born in a barn and the door was wide open
i ran out before i learned to crawl
and if i die when i’m high
i’ll be halfway to heaven
or i might have a long way to fall
[verse 3: particle kid & willie nelson]
the paper today said i’m changing my ways
and my time’s been slowing down
they said people my age
are expected to fade
well i’m afraid i’ve let them down[pre+chorus: particle kid & willie nelson]
you gotta use it or lose it
and i’ll choose how it ends
if i could only get back on the road again[chorus: particle kid & willie nelson]
i was born in a barn and the door was wide open
i ran out before i learned to crawl
and if i die when i’m high
i’ll be halfway to heaven
or i might have a long way to fall[chorus: particle kid & willie nelson]
i was born in a barn and the door was wide open
i ran out before i learned to crawl
and if i die when i’m high
i’ll be halfway to heaven
or i might have a long way to fall
[outro: particle kid & willie nelson]
and if i die when i’m high
i’ll be halfway to heaven
or i might have a long way to fall
