Turn Off the News (Build a Garden) – Lukas & Willie Nelson

Introduction

There’s something deeply calming about tending a garden—getting your hands in the soil, watching something grow. It reminds me of a moment in my own life when, feeling overwhelmed by the constant buzz of headlines and social media, I turned off the television and spent an entire weekend planting tomatoes and basil. That peaceful rebellion is exactly what Lukas Nelson captures in Turn Off the News (Build a Garden)—a song that doesn’t shout to be heard but rather whispers an invitation to slow down, reconnect, and rebuild from the roots.

About The Composition

• Title: Turn Off the News (Build a Garden)
• Composer: Lukas Nelson and Promise of the Real
• Premiere Date: June 14, 2019
• Album/Collection: Turn Off the News (Build a Garden)
• Genre: Country rock / Americana

Background

According to the Wikipedia entry, Turn Off the News (Build a Garden) is the fifth studio album by Lukas Nelson & Promise of the Real. Released in 2019, the title track quickly became an anthem for those feeling disillusioned by the noise and negativity of modern media. The album reflects a philosophy of mindful living and quiet resistance. With roots in Nelson’s upbringing—his father being the legendary Willie Nelson—Lukas brings a familiar sincerity and country soul to the message: change begins at home.

This song emerged in a period marked by global unrest, divisive politics, and 24-hour news cycles. It resonated not only as a critique of the information overload but also as a call to action for compassion, community, and creation.

Musical Style

The track blends classic Americana and country rock influences with a laid-back, organic arrangement. Clean guitars, a grooving rhythm section, and Lukas Nelson’s warm, clear vocals create an inviting soundscape. There’s nothing overproduced here—just honest, heartfelt musicianship that serves the song’s message.

The musical structure is simple, with verses that build gently into a memorable chorus. The instrumentation includes acoustic and electric guitars, piano, and subtle backing vocals, all working in harmony to create a sound that’s both modern and timeless.

Lyrics/Libretto

The lyrics advocate for intentional living and emotional presence. Lines like “Turn off the news and build a garden / Just my neighborhood and me / We might feel a bit less hardened / We might feel a bit more free” offer a kind of musical therapy—a reminder that sometimes the best way to respond to chaos is to choose peace.

Rather than being escapist, the song promotes active engagement with one’s immediate surroundings: building gardens, supporting neighbors, and choosing love over fear.

Performance History

Though not a classical piece with concert hall performances, the song has been widely performed at music festivals and on national television, often gaining traction during times of social unrest. It’s been embraced not only by fans of Americana but also by broader audiences looking for a sense of calm and grounding.

Cultural Impact

The message of Turn Off the News (Build a Garden) reached far beyond country rock circles. Its themes were echoed during the COVID-19 pandemic when people literally began turning to gardening, cooking, and home-centered activities to cope with uncertainty. The song was featured in various playlists and editorials focused on mental wellness and social resilience.

Its cultural relevance also stems from its eco-conscious message and advocacy for community-oriented living, aligning with broader movements around sustainability and mindfulness.

Legacy

While still relatively new, Turn Off the News (Build a Garden) feels destined to endure as a comfort song—one people return to when the world gets too loud. Its legacy is intertwined with its timing: a gentle protest against division, a musical push for reconnection. Lukas Nelson, through this song, adds another thoughtful branch to the rich family tree of American songwriting.

Conclusion

Turn Off the News (Build a Garden) is more than just a song—it’s a philosophy. It’s an invitation to step away from noise and step into something real. Whether you’re literally planting seeds or just looking for a little stillness in your day, this track offers both solace and strength.

I highly recommend the acoustic version for its intimacy, and if you get a chance, watch Lukas perform it live—he brings an authenticity that reminds you how powerful music can be when it comes from a place of truth.

So next time the headlines feel too heavy, maybe try this: turn off the news, and let the music grow.

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