The event will be held this Friday, May 12, 2023 at the LBJ library on the University of Texas Austin campus.

Coming off a huge high this week from his epic 90th Birthday bash celebration at the iconic Hollywood Bowl and his nomination (finally) to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame 2023 class, the tribute is well deserved. Willie’s known for much more than his music and lyrics, but for all the good he has done (and does) for others in the world.

“There are no problems we cannot solve together, and very few that we can solve by ourselves.” – President Lyndon B. Johnson

The LBJ Foundation created the LBJ Liberty & Justice for All Award in 2010 in the spirit of President Johnson’s commitment to public service and access and equality for all Americans. Willie Nelson is a deserving recipient. Throughout his career, Willie has remained passionately committed to using his musical talent to assist people affected by natural disasters, to address global food insecurity, and to support sustainable agriculture. Perhaps his best-known cause, Farm Aid, has raised over $70 million dollars to support family farms since its inception in 1985.

In tribute to Willie, net proceeds will support the establishment of the Willie Nelson Endowment for Uplifting Rural Communities at the LBJ School of Public Affairs. The endowment will fund activities focused on sustainable agriculture, eliminating hunger, resilient energy, sustainable water as well as natural disaster recovery to uplift rural and farm communities. Read the LBJ article about the endowment and how important Willie has been to rural communities.

The event will have a red carpet, fundraiser, and concert with Lyle Lovett, Eric Church, Sam Hunt, and Elle King.

More details and tickets: LBJ Award

Check out all our coverage of Willie and more on Austin 101 Magazine.