Laying My Burdens Down is the 11th studio album by country singer Willie Nelson, released in late 1970.

Background

Laying My Burdens Down was Nelson's second RCA release of 1970 and fourth in two years, but the formula remained unchanged as producers Chet Atkins and Felton Jarvis continued applying the Nashville formula to Nelson's recordings, much against the singer's better judgement. As Patoski states, "His next two albums, Laying My Burdens Down and Willie Nelson and Family, were familiar stories: a new cast of studio players...good cover songs...interesting concepts...and lousy sales. AllMusic's Jim Worbois agrees, contending, "There are some nice things on here, but too many are buried under the Nashville Sound and don't seem to be able to stand on their own." Despite the paltry sales, Nelson remained loyal to RCA head Atkins, later stating, "Even though his vision and mine were different, I couldn't get mad at a man who believed so deeply in my talent – especially when that man happened to be one of the best guitarists in the world."

Reception

AllMusic: "This is what can best be described as a pleasant album...Not great, but you could do worse."

Track listing

All tracks composed by Willie Nelson, except where noted.

Personnel