Music legend Willie Nelson returned to Helotes to perform for a sold-out crowd at John T. Floore Country Store. Photo by Eva Ruth Moravec

Music legend Willie Nelson returned to Helotes last week to perform for a sold-out crowd at John T. Floore Country Store, known as “The Home of Willie Nelson.” Now 74, Nelson started playing free Saturday night shows at the honky-tonk venue decades ago.

On Oct. 11, Nelson, in all black, braids, a red bandana and gray New Balance tennis shoes, strummed through classic hits like “Shotgun Willie,” which immortalizes Floore; “Pancho and Lefty” and “Whiskey River.” Willie Nelson and his Family Band played songs from Nelson’s new album and an album produced by his sister, pianist Bobbie Nelson.

Country singer Ashley Ray opened for Nelson, who was on stage until midnight.