'He thinks he'll die': Willie Nelson, 90, refuses to quit performing despite failing health, sources say

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Willie Nelson has faith in reincarnation while the 90-year-old country music icon apparently rejects requests from loved ones to slow down.

According to insiders, the 90-year-old versatile artist refuses to follow the advice of his inner circle because he believes retirement will be his last breath.

Willie Nelson is 'not quitting'

Nelson celebrated his 90th birthday in April at the Hollywood Bowl over two nights with an elaborate procession of guests.

According to insiders, the 'Pancho and Lefty' singer has significantly declined in physical health, though he allegedly has no plans to retire anytime soon.

An informant told the National Enquirer, "He's frail, can't stand straight and must perform sitting down — and he even breathes with difficulty," per Radar Online.

The source went on, "While his body is failing him, his mind seems sharp as a whistle. He's telling these nags to nip it — he's not quitting!"

Although Nelson's years seem to be catching up with him, the insider asserted that he is still as sharp and outstanding as ever.

Nelson is "scared" to put down his guitar, which is the "main reason" the source claimed Nelson is so determined to take a break.

Nelson, according to the source, "thinks he'll die if he's not performing and entertaining a crowd. He needs his fans as much as they need him."

Willie Nelson's latest projects

The source claimed that Nelson's most recent endeavors and live appearances bear credence to his passion for music.

In September, the 'Red Headed Stranger' artist put out a record titled 'Bluegrass'. In November, he released a book titled 'Energy Follows Thought: The Stories Behind My Songs'.

He also keeps up his charity activities, contributing to organizations like Farm Aid.

Nelson's latest album 'Bluegrass' is a compilation of popular songs rendered in a bluegrass style, including 'On the Road Again' and 'Bloody Mary Morning'.

The CD is a nominee for Best Bluegrass CD at the Grammy Awards, as per Rolling Stone.

The 'On the Road Again' singer even took the stage at his Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction in November 2023 in Brooklyn.

"His wife, Annie, and eight kids mean the world to him — but Willie's first love was always his music," according to a source. "It keeps him going."

Moreover, a peek at the vibrant life of the 'Red Headed Stranger' can be found in the trailer for 'Willie Nelson & Family', a four-part documentary directed by Thom Zimny and Oren Moverman.

Some of the rare old footage that constitutes the film's main highlights are shown in this clip, including Nelson performing on his guitar, Trigger, mingling with other artists, and even tumbling into an inflatable pool backstage at a festival.

A ton of videos show Nelson performing live with his Family Band, which includes his sister Bobbie Nelson, who died in 2022.

'Willie Nelson & Family', produced by Taylor Sheridan of 'Yellowstone', makes its Paramount+ debut on December 21.