Even at age 75, Willie Nelson keeps busy, and shows no signs of slowing down. In 2008 alone, Nelson has released a new album, a box set, a live collaboration with jazz man Wynton Marsalis, recorded a duet with Kenny Chesney and appeared on Stephen Colbert’s Christmas special (as the fourth wise man bringing a questionable substance to the baby Jesus).Even at age 75, Willie Nelson keeps busy, and shows no signs of slowing down.

In 2008 alone, Nelson has released a new album, a box set, a live collaboration with jazz man Wynton Marsalis, recorded a duet with Kenny Chesney and appeared on Stephen Colbert’s Christmas special (as the fourth wise man bringing a questionable substance to the baby Jesus).

On top of all that, the man is still on tour, which stops at Assembly Hall on Saturday. Nelson is still touring as much as he ever has, with many of the same members he has toured with for years.

Trigger, his beat-up classical guitar, will also be in tow to play some of his classic country songs. The man is known as a great guitarist, and there is no better plays for him to show off his chops than in a live setting.

Opening act will be Billy Bob Thornton and The Boxmasters. While Thornton is best known as an actor for films such as “Sling Blade” and “Bad Santa,” he has been making records since 2001. His music is similar to Nelson’s, utilizing the classic, sparse country sound. We’ll see how it translates in a big venue.

Willie Nelson, with special guest Billy Bob Thornton and The Boxmasters, will be performing at Assembly Hall, 1800 S. First St., Champaign on Saturday at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $35-$45, with a $5 student discount.