About the Song
On his 2014 album, “December Day: Willie’s Stash, Vol. 1,” Nelson offers a poignant rendition of the classic Irving Berlin ballad, “What’ll I Do.” This timeless song, originally written in 1923, finds new life in Nelson’s hands, reminding us of the enduring power of love and loss.
“What’ll I Do” explores the heartache and confusion that follow the end of a relationship. The song’s narrator grapples with the sudden absence of their loved one, questioning how they will go on without them. Berlin’s lyrics are simple yet devastatingly effective, capturing the raw emotions of heartbreak with heartbreaking clarity.
Nelson’s interpretation of the song is both tender and melancholic. His voice, worn and weathered by years of experience, imbues each line with a sense of lived-in sadness. His guitar playing, understated yet expressive, provides a gentle backdrop to the song’s emotional landscape. As Nelson sings, we can almost feel the narrator’s pain, their sense of isolation and despair.
One of the most striking aspects of Nelson’s rendition is its sense of intimacy. It feels as though he is singing directly to us, sharing his own experiences of love and loss. This intimacy creates a powerful connection between the listener and the song, allowing us to experience its emotional depth on a personal level.
“What’ll I Do” is a song that speaks to the universal experience of heartbreak. Its themes of loss, loneliness, and longing are ones that we can all relate to, regardless of our age or background. In Nelson’s hands, the song becomes even more powerful, reminding us of the enduring power of love and the profound sadness that follows its absence.
For those who have experienced the pain of heartbreak, “What’ll I Do” offers a sense of solace and understanding. It reminds us that we are not alone in our grief and that even the deepest wounds can heal with time. Nelson’s rendition is a testament to the enduring power of music to connect us to our deepest emotions and to remind us of the beauty and fragility of the human experience.