Willie Nelson’s Legendary Guitar: The Unforgettable Story of Trigger
Country music icon Willie Nelson is celebrated far and wide not only for his unique voice, but also for his legendary sidekick—a Martin N-20 nylon-string guitar affectionately dubbed “Trigger.” This isn’t just any ordinary instrument; it’s a cherished piece of history that has been by Nelson’s side throughout every twist and turn of his remarkable career.
If you prefer not to read the full story,
Skip ahead to watch the video ->
The Emergence of a Legendary Guitar
Trigger’s journey began in 1969 when Willie Nelson was still trying to find his footing as a singer and songwriter in Nashville. After his previous guitar met an unfortunate end, Nelson enlisted the help of luthier Shot Jackson, who sold him a Martin N-20 classical guitar for $750. Instantly, Willie was enchanted by its sound, likening it to the soul-stirring tones of Django Reinhardt, his all-time favorite guitarist. Unlike typical classical guitars, which are played without a pick, Willie used one, carving out the guitar’s signature worn-out spot and leaving his personal mark on it.
A Pivotal Moment in Nashville
Despite finding success as a songwriter in Nashville, Nelson yearned for more creative freedom, a dream not nurtured by the city’s strict music industry standards. His defiance earned him the nickname “Outlaw.” A turning point came on Christmas Eve in 1969 when his Nashville home caught fire. In an effort to save what mattered most, Willie dashed into the smoldering ruins to rescue his new guitar and a stash of marijuana. The fire, though disastrous, proved to be serendipitous—it nudged Willie to leave Nashville and head back to Texas where he could fully embrace his artistic vision.
Austin: A Haven for Musical Innovation
The vibrant and eclectic music scene in Austin, Texas, was blossoming at that time. Here, Willie found a creative sanctuary where he could freely blend musical genres and experiment with new styles. It was in Austin that “Trigger” became more than just a companion—it was transformed into an instrument of innovation as Willie equipped it with a pickup, amplifying its sound in a way that was then unheard of for acoustic guitars.
The release of the “Red Headed Stranger” album in 1975 marked a pivotal moment in Nelson’s career and made Trigger central to his music. With its stripped-down acoustic sound, Trigger emerged as the main voice driving the songs, turning Willie into a national sensation and solidifying the guitar’s legendary status.
Trigger: An Artifact of Musical History
Over decades of touring, Trigger has collected numerous scars and signatures from music legends like Leon Russell, Roger Miller, and Paul English—each telling a story and adding to the guitar’s allure. Instead of restoring Trigger to its original condition, each blemish has been preserved, embodying its storied past.
Willie Nelson regards Trigger as more than just a guitar; it is a trusted friend and integral band member. Both he and Trigger have gracefully aged together, collecting memories and continually creating music. They are likely to share the same final bow, a testament to their enduring partnership.
Ultimately, Trigger is a symbol of resilience and creativity—a testament to how an instrument can weave itself into the very fabric of a musician’s life. It’s a lifelong companion that has witnessed every triumph and challenge, narrating an enduring tale of music and friendship.
Watch the video below:
More Country Music.
