Willie Nelson, 91, Is Not ‘Worried’ About Death: ‘I Take Pretty Good Care of Myself’

Willie Nelson is looking at life with optimism at 91. The “On the Road Again” singer recently released his 76th solo album, Last Leaf on the Tree, and has no plans of slowing down with making music any time soon.

During a chat with the Associated Press on November 1, Willie revealed that he does not often think about death.

“Well, I’m 91 plus, so, you know, I’m not worried about it. I don’t feel bad. I don’t hurt anywhere. I don’t have any reason to worry about dying,” he told the outlet. “But I don’t know anybody who’s lived forever. I take pretty good care of myself. And I feel like I’m in pretty good shape physically. Mentally? That’s another story.”

The music man also reflected on what he wants his legacy to be. “I had a good time. And I did what I came here to do: make music,” he said.

Recently, insiders told Closer that Willie was relying on pal Bob Dylan to keep him “sharp.”

“To them, age is just a number, and they joke they’re not dead yet,” the source said. “They talk about the good old days, and that keeps their mental processes sharp.”

In June, Willie was forced to cancel performances due to illness.

“Willie’s been through the ringer with emphysema, pneumonia and other ailments and has learned a few things as far as longevity goes and is always happy to share them with Bob, and Bob does the same for Willie,” the insider said.

“Bob is in incredible shape considering the hard-charging life he’s lived, and Willie’s clinging on and finding new energy levels even after his recent health scare,” the source added.

Willie has since been able to return to the stage prior to the release of Last Leaf on the Tree on November 1.

“They’ve calmed down a lot,” the insider said of Willie and Bob’s habits. “Willie used to be the biggest weed smoker on the planet, and Bob’s had a colorful life, too, but they still like to reminisce and consider themselves part of the cool clan.”

A separate source also told Closer that Willie’s family has been supporting him amid his return to the stage after facing health issues.

“His recent illness took the wind out of him, and many feel his return to touring was a bit premature but there’s no talking sense to Willie when he’s got a blazing fire under him,” the insider said in July. “So, they’re doing what they can, hovering over him, making sure he eats and gets enough fluids and rests between sets.”

“He’s walked to and from stage by a member of the crew, as there are a lot of cables that could trip him up, and one fall for someone his age could be disastrous,” the insider added at the time. “His family is close by and watching him like a hawk. Willie has the best support team, and he’s much loved by everyone.”