Tag: willienelson

Johnny Rodriguez & Jesus

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On Christmas Day in 1994, Randy and his friend Johnny engaged in a deep conversation about faith and personal losses, particularly discussing the death of musician Bill Boling. Johnny shared his past experiences with religion, revealing that he accepted Jesus Christ after Bill’s tragic death, expressing a desire to join his mother and Bill in heaven. The narrative reflects on the nature of salvation, emphasizing that it cannot be earned through good deeds but is a gift from God through faith. Randy highlights the importance of genuine belief and the unconditional love of Jesus for all, urging readers to seek a true relationship with Him.

Two musicians perform with guitars labeled Hank Williams and Johnny Rodriguez

Johnny Rodriguez Biography

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Explore the untold stories and friendships captured in 'Johnny Rodriguez: The Rest of the Story' by Randy Willis, a journey through music and memories.

Johnny Rodriguez & Darrell Royal

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As I spoke with Coach Royal and Coach Phillips, one of the TVs suddenly switched to a scene in California. Within minutes, the ballroom almost emptied into the lobby. O.J. Simpson was leading police on a wild chase in a white Bronco driven by his former teammate, Al Cowlings. O.J. had a gun to his head.

Willie Nelson, Lana Nelson, and Randy Willis. January 10, 1995, Luck, Texas

Johnny Rodriguez and Lana Nelson: Tying the Knot

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Johnny Rodriguez married Willie Nelson’s daughter, Lana Nelson, at Willie’s movie set within sight of Willie’s colossal log home on a hill overlooking Luck, Texas. I was Johnny’s best man. The date was January 10, 1995.

Johnny Rodriguez, Lana Nelson, Willie Nelson, and Randy Willis January 10, 1995, Luck, Texas

Johnny Rodriguez: A Tragedy Beyond Comprehension

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Johnny Rodriguez, Lana Nelson, Willie Nelson, and Randy Willis January 10, 1995, Luck, Texas

Johnny Rodriguez, Lana Nelson, Willie Nelson, and Randy Willis

Remembering Johnny Rodriguez

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I first met John Rodriguez at Garner State Park in the mid-1960s. I'd been told he could sing, so I asked him to sing a song when we were introduced. He almost always had his guitar with him. As I sat atop a concrete picnic table, he sang passionately Marty Robbins' hit "You Gave Me a Mountain."

Dolly Parton: A Streetcar Named Desire

On By Randy WillisIn Randy WillisLeave a comment

In his personal narrative, Randy Willis reflects on his encounters with Johnny Rodriguez, a significant figure in country music, and their shared experiences in places like Garner State Park and New Orleans during the 1970s. Willis recounts their friendship, music performances, and memorable moments, including meeting Dolly Parton as they celebrated Johnny’s chart successes. He also conveys a sense of nostalgia regarding their musical journeys, while exploring themes of friendship, creativity, and the cultural backdrop of Louisiana. Additionally, he emphasizes the impact of community and philanthropy through initiatives like the Johnny Rodriguez Life Enrichment Center.

Master storyteller Randy Willis—books about adventure, family, and faith.

About Randy Willis

On By Randy WillisIn #randywillis, biography, darrell royal, destiny, George W Bush, jake willis, joseph willis, julian willis, Lady Bird Johnson, Randy WillisLeave a comment

Master storyteller Randy Willis—books about adventure, family, and faith. Randy Willis draws on his family heritage of explorers, settlers, soldiers, cowboys, and pastors. He upholds the tradition of loving the outdoors. He shares this love in the adventures he creates for readers of his novels. He is the author of two biographies and his new memoir, To the Best of My Recollection. Randy Willis has written many books, including Destiny, Three Winds Blowing, and Beckoning Candle. He also wrote Twice a Slave, Texas Wind, Louisiana Wind, and The Apostle to the Opelousas. He also wrote The Story of Joseph Willis and To the Best of My Recollection, and many articles.

Even an Old Bling Hog Finds an Acorn now & Then

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Randy Willis and Darrell Royal Master storyteller Randy Willis—books about adventure, family, and faith. Randy Willis is as much at home in the saddle as he is in front of the computer, where he composes his family sagas.