About the song
Willie Nelson’s “Nothing I Can Do About It Now,” performed live during his 1990 appearance on Austin City Limits, is a poignant and reflective piece that captures the essence of Nelson’s timeless artistry. In this live rendition, Nelson delivers a performance that feels both deeply personal and universally relatable, embodying the signature warmth and authenticity that have made him a cornerstone of American music for decades.
The song, penned by Beth Nielsen Chapman, reflects on the inevitability of human mistakes and the acceptance that comes with hindsight. Its lyrics are steeped in themes of regret, forgiveness, and self-awareness—sentiments that resonate across generations. In Nelson’s hands, these words take on a life of their own. His gentle phrasing and nuanced delivery bring a profound sense of introspection, while the live setting adds an organic intimacy that studio recordings often can’t match.
Set against the backdrop of Austin City Limits, a venue synonymous with authenticity and musical excellence, this performance stands out as a masterclass in storytelling through song. Nelson’s voice, weathered yet tender, perfectly complements the understated arrangement, which allows his subtle guitar work on “Trigger” and the impeccable support from his band to shine. The interplay between his vocals and the instrumentation creates an atmosphere that feels both intimate and expansive, as if Nelson is having a heartfelt conversation with each member of the audience.
For fans of Willie Nelson, this live version of “Nothing I Can Do About It Now” isn’t just a performance; it’s an experience. It’s a reminder of his unparalleled ability to distill complex emotions into simple truths and to connect with listeners in a way that feels both immediate and enduring. Whether you’ve followed his career for decades or are just discovering his music, this performance is a testament to why Willie Nelson remains one of the most respected voices in country and American music as a whole.
Video
Lyrics
I’ve got a long list of real good reasons
For all the things I’ve done
I’ve got a picture in the back of my mind
Of what I’ve lost and what I’ve won
I’ve survived every situation
Knowing when to freeze and when to run
And regret is just a memory written on my brow
And there’s nothing I can do about it now.
I’ve got a wild and a restless spirit
I held my price through every deal
I’ve seen the fire of a woman’s scorned
Turn her heart of gold to steel
I’ve got the song of the voice inside me
Set to the rhythm of the wheel
And I’ve been dreaming like a child
Since the cradle broke the bow
And there’s nothing I can do about it now.
Running through the changes
Going through the stages
Coming round the corners in my life
Leaving doubt to fate
Staying out too late
Waiting for the moon to say good night
And I could cry for the time I’ve wasted
But that’s a waste of time and tears,
And I know just what I’d change
If went back in time somehow
But there’s nothing I can do about it now
Running through the changes
Going through the stages
Coming round the corners in my life
Leaving doubt to fate
Staying out too late
Waiting for the moon to say good night
And I could cry for the time I’ve wasted
But that’s a waste of time and tears
And I know just what I’d change
If went back in time somehow
But there’s nothing I can do about it now.
I’m forgiving everything that forgiveness will allow
And there’s nothing I can do about it now
