Willie Nelson and Mick Fleetwood have teamed up with singer-songwriter Lily Meola to release a new song titled “Hope in the Ashes.” The collaborative track aims to raise funds for the state of Hawai’i, specifically for the island of Maui, which is still recovering from devastating wildfires that occurred in the summer of 2023.
The song features a lineup of talented musicians, including Nelson's son Lukas, Paula Fuga, and ukulele player Jake Shimabukuro. While most of the artists lend their vocals to the track, Fleetwood showcases his drumming skills, and Shimabukuro contributes his ukulele playing.
Meola, who co-wrote the song, expressed that her inspiration stemmed from the aftermath of the Maui fires, emphasizing the importance of spreading hope and love to those affected by the tragedy. She highlighted the ongoing need for support and healing in the community.
“Hope in the Ashes” is not only a musical collaboration but also a charitable initiative, with all proceeds from the song being donated to the Maui Food Bank. The release of the track serves as a platform to raise awareness about the ongoing challenges faced by the residents of Maui and to encourage solidarity and compassion in the recovery process.