What Did Willie Nelson Name His Guitar? Discover the Story Behind 'Trigger

Willie Nelson, the legendary country music icon, has been inseparable from his trusty guitar for over half a century. Nelson named his beloved instrument "Trigger" after Roy Rogers' horse. This Martin N-20 classical acoustic guitar has been a constant companion on Willie's musical journey since 1969.

Trigger's story began when Nelson's previous guitar was damaged during a show. He purchased the Martin N-20 sight unseen for $750, and it quickly became an integral part of his performances and recordings. The guitar's distinctive sound and appearance have made it as recognizable as Willie's voice in country music circles.

Over the years, Trigger has endured countless hours of playing, resulting in visible wear and a large hole in its body. Despite offers to replace it, Nelson has steadfastly refused, preferring to keep his old friend by his side. Trigger's presence on stage often elicits excitement from fans, who recognize its significance in Willie Nelson's storied career.

Willie Nelson and His Beloved Guitar

Willie Nelson's iconic guitar, named Trigger, has been his constant companion for over five decades. Trigger is a Martin N-20 nylon-string classical acoustic guitar that Nelson acquired in 1969.

The guitar got its name from Roy Rogers' horse, reflecting Nelson's cowboy roots. Trigger's unique sound has become synonymous with Nelson's distinctive musical style.

Nelson purchased Trigger for $750 after his previous guitar was damaged at a show in Texas. The Martin N-20's rich, soulful tone immediately captivated him.

Trigger has been featured on numerous classic albums, including "Shotgun Willie" and "Red Headed Stranger". Its sound can be heard on hit songs like "On the Road Again".

Over the years, Trigger has endured extensive wear and tear. The guitar's body now sports a large hole from Nelson's energetic playing style.

Despite offers to replace it, Nelson remains fiercely loyal to Trigger. He considers the guitar an extension of himself and an integral part of his music-making process.

Trigger's significance extends beyond Nelson's personal attachment. It has become a symbol of his enduring career and influence in the music industry.

The Guitar's Origin and Characteristics

Willie Nelson's iconic guitar, Trigger, is a 1969 Martin N-20 classical acoustic with unique modifications and a rich history. This instrument has been Nelson's constant companion for over five decades, shaping his distinctive sound and becoming a legend in its own right.

The Martin Legacy

The Martin N-20 was a top-of-the-line classical guitar when Nelson acquired it in 1969. It featured a Sitka spruce top and Brazilian rosewood back and sides, prized for their tonal qualities. The N-20's neck was crafted from mahogany, with an ebony fretboard.

Martin's reputation for quality craftsmanship made the N-20 a sought-after instrument among professional musicians. The guitar's balanced tone and responsive nature suited Nelson's fingerpicking style perfectly.

Signatures and Alterations

Trigger underwent significant modifications to suit Nelson's needs. Shot Jackson installed a Prismatone pickup, allowing Nelson to amplify the guitar's sound through a Baldwin amp. This alteration gave Trigger its distinctive electric-acoustic tone.

Over the years, Trigger accumulated numerous signatures from fellow musicians and friends. The guitar's soundboard now bears a large hole worn through by Nelson's persistent picking. Despite its weathered appearance, Trigger's sound remains unmistakable.

Nelson's refusal to retire Trigger has made the guitar a symbol of his enduring career. The instrument's unique characteristics, born from years of use and modification, have become inseparable from Nelson's musical identity.

Memorable Collaborations and Performances

Willie Nelson's career has been marked by unforgettable musical partnerships and live shows. His collaborations have spanned genres and generations, while his performances have left lasting impressions on audiences worldwide.

Concerts and Shows

Willie Nelson's live performances are legendary. He has been a mainstay on the Austin City Limits television program since its inception in 1974. His appearances on the show have helped solidify its reputation as a premier showcase for American roots music.

Nelson's annual Farm Aid benefit concerts, which he co-founded in 1985, have raised millions for family farmers. These events have featured an impressive roster of musicians over the years.

The Highwaymen tours of the 1980s and 1990s brought Nelson together with Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, and Kris Kristofferson. These shows were a country music fan's dream, featuring four of the genre's biggest stars on one stage.

Influential Friends and Musicians

Willie Nelson's musical partnerships have produced some of country music's most memorable recordings. His duets with Waylon Jennings, including "Mammas Don't Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys," became instant classics.

Nelson's work with Johnny Cash resulted in several notable collaborations. Their version of "Ghost Riders in the Sky" showcased their complementary vocal styles.

Kris Kristofferson has been a frequent collaborator, both as part of The Highwaymen and in other projects. Their songwriting partnership has yielded numerous hits.

Nelson's admiration for Django Reinhardt's guitar style has influenced his own playing. This connection to jazz has led to unexpected collaborations with artists outside the country genre.

Influence on Music and Culture

Willie Nelson's guitar, Trigger, has profoundly shaped country music and popular culture. Its distinctive sound and appearance have become inseparable from Nelson's legendary career.

Country Music and Beyond

Trigger's unique nylon-string tone has influenced multiple genres. Its mellow, warm sound became a signature element of Willie Nelson's music, helping define the outlaw country movement. The guitar's recognizable voice can be heard on countless hit songs and albums, shaping the sonic landscape of country, folk, and Americana.

Trigger's impact extends beyond recording studios. Its presence in Nelson's live performances, from honky-tonk clubs to major venues, has made it an icon in its own right. The guitar's distinctive hole, worn from years of use, has become a visual symbol of Nelson's enduring career and dedication to his craft.

Representation in Media

Trigger has garnered significant attention in popular media. Rolling Stone Films produced a documentary about the guitar, highlighting its importance in music history. The film features interviews with Nelson, his longtime guitar tech David Chamberlin, and music historian Joe Nick Patoski.

The guitar has appeared in numerous photographs, music videos, and album covers. Its prominence in these visual representations has cemented Trigger's status as an instantly recognizable symbol of Willie Nelson's artistry. Actor Woody Harrelson even portrayed Nelson in a film, carefully replicating the musician's relationship with his beloved instrument.

Technical Aspects and Guitar Care

Willie Nelson's guitar Trigger has unique technical characteristics and requires specialized maintenance. The instrument's distinctive sound and modifications have contributed to its legendary status.

Guitar Tech and Maintenance

Trigger's longevity is a testament to meticulous care. Willie Nelson's longtime guitar technician, Tunin' Tom Hawkins, maintains the instrument. He carefully repairs cracks and monitors the guitar's structural integrity.

Hawkins uses custom-made wooden plugs to fill new holes in Trigger's body. He applies a special lacquer to protect the exposed wood. The guitar's worn appearance is preserved as part of its character.

Regular restringing is crucial. Nelson prefers medium-gauge nylon strings for Trigger's classical-style neck. The guitar's action is kept low to suit Nelson's playing style.

Unique Sound and Customization

Trigger's distinctive tone comes from its unique blend of components. The guitar body is a Martin N-20 nylon-string, but its electrical system is from a Baldwin acoustic.

The Baldwin's Prismatone pickup was installed in Trigger, creating a hybrid instrument. This setup allows Nelson to amplify the nylon-string guitar effectively on stage.

Nelson uses a Baldwin amp to further shape Trigger's sound. The combination produces a warm, mellow tone that has become Nelson's signature. The guitar's sound has influenced many country and folk musicians over the years.

Legacy and Continuing Influence

Willie Nelson's guitar, affectionately named Trigger, has become an iconic symbol in country music. The instrument's distinctive sound and appearance have inspired countless musicians across generations.

Nelson's mastery of the guitar and innovative playing style have influenced both country and jazz musicians. His unique fingerpicking technique and melodic solos have set a new standard in guitar craftsmanship.

Trigger's fame has extended beyond music circles, becoming a cultural touchstone. The guitar's well-worn appearance tells the story of Nelson's long and storied career, reflecting his dedication to his craft.

Nelson's songwriting, often composed on Trigger, has left an indelible mark on the music industry. His ability to craft heartfelt lyrics and memorable melodies has earned him recognition as one of the greatest songwriters of his era.

The legacy of Willie Nelson and Trigger continues to inspire new artists to push boundaries in country music. Their enduring partnership serves as a testament to the power of an artist's connection with their instrument.