Summer 2011 saw Lukas Nelson (son of country music legend Willie Nelson) and his band, Promise of the Real, take on a hectic 15 week tour, whilst also indulging in an intense writing binge. The result; the band’s second full-length album, Wasted.

What is going on right now for Lukas Nelson & Promise of the Real?

We’re headed to Canada to play a few shows, then off to California… going to play the Roxy on July 28 in Hollywood!


Can you speak to the choice to be affiliated with a band rather than a solo act? Did the choice have anything to do with distinguishing yourself from being known as ‘Willie Nelsons Son’?

I wanted to be a part of something real with real friends. Want to play good music with good people..and it is much better to be on the road with a family than a bunch of hired guns..

What is the most fun you’ve ever had writing a song? Either actually writing it or the situation that inspired it?


I am inspired by many different situations in life… Most of the songs I wrote don’t take very long and are late at night… I don’t know why, it just ends up that way…

Who has encouraged you the most to pursue a career in music?

As for who encouraged me the most, I think that my family has always been the most supportive…

Describe the moment you decided to quit your day job to pursue music as a career. Where and when were you?


I was going to Loyola Marymount University in LA. One day I just quit going to class. I just didn’t feel like it anymore..I knew what I was good at and I went for it.


What impact has touring had on your career?

I think touring is good because it keeps me fresh, and I’m so used to it because I grew up doing it. It always helps to tour if I’m ever down…


Out of curiosity, how has the title ‘Wasted’ been received? You’ve been quoted more than once explaining that it ‘isn’t about getting wasted’. Does the title seem to push some peoples buttons wrong?

Sometimes it does, and it has been an issue, admittedly. I try to explain but it really has to be something that’s internalized anyways I guess…

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever given?

To focus on my breathing and feel the physical symptoms of being alive! It has changed my life immensely…


What historical musical moment do you wish you were present for?

There are many, many moments, but I really wish I was there at Winterland to see “The Last Waltz” concert live…


What artist would you most like to work with, dead or alive? And why?

I would love to work with Eddie Vedder…but that’s just the one that’s in my head now..there are so many! I’ve been listening to a lot of Pearl Jam and Eddie solo stuff so I’m in that mood. Yesterday it may have been Thom York from Radiohead..changes all the time…

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