Willie Nelson's 'Trigger': The Guitar That Changed Country Music Forever!
Willie Nelson's iconic guitar, affectionately named "Trigger," has become as legendary as the country music superstar himself. This Martin N-20 nylon-string acoustic guitar has been Nelson's constant companion since 1969, accompanying him on countless stages and recording sessions. The unique bond between Willie Nelson and his Martin guitar has played a pivotal role in shaping his distinctive sound and musical legacy.
Trigger's story began when Nelson's previous guitar, a Baldwin, was damaged. He acquired the Martin N-20 as a replacement and transferred the pickup from his old guitar to the new one. Over the years, Trigger has endured extensive wear and tear, developing a large hole in its body from Nelson's vigorous playing style. Despite its battered appearance, the guitar's unmistakable tone has become an integral part of Nelson's music.
Martin Guitar recognized the significance of Nelson's instrument and created a limited edition Willie Nelson signature model in 1998. This N-20WN "Trigger" replica allowed fans and musicians to own a piece of music history inspired by one of the most recognizable guitars in the world. The collaboration between Willie Nelson and Martin Guitar serves as a testament to the enduring influence of both the artist and the instrument maker in the realm of country music.
History of Willie Nelson's Martin Guitar
Willie Nelson's iconic Martin N-20 guitar has been an integral part of his music for over five decades. This instrument, affectionately named "Trigger," has played a crucial role in shaping Nelson's signature sound and has become a symbol of his enduring career in country music.
Origin of the Martin N-20
The Martin N-20 that would become Willie Nelson's constant companion was manufactured in 1969. Martin Guitar Company crafted this classical acoustic model with a Sitka spruce top and Brazilian rosewood back and sides.
The N-20 featured a wider neck and softer nylon strings, setting it apart from typical steel-string guitars used in country music. This unique configuration would later contribute to Nelson's distinctive playing style.
Birth of 'Trigger'
In 1969, Nelson's previous guitar was damaged during a performance. He then acquired the Martin N-20, which would soon become known as "Trigger."
The name "Trigger" was inspired by Roy Rogers' famous horse. Nelson felt an immediate connection to the instrument, appreciating its rich tone and comfortable playability.
He modified the guitar by adding a pickup from his old Baldwin guitar, creating a hybrid instrument that could be amplified for live performances.
The Signature Sound
Trigger's nylon strings and classical design allowed Nelson to develop his unique fingerpicking technique. This style became a hallmark of his sound, blending elements of country, jazz, and folk music.
The guitar's mellow tone complemented Nelson's distinctive voice, creating a perfect match for his storytelling lyrics. Over the years, Trigger has developed a large hole in its body from Nelson's constant playing.
Despite its worn appearance, the guitar's sound has aged like fine wine, becoming an essential part of Willie Nelson's musical identity in country music.
Technical Aspects of the Martin N-20
The Martin N-20 guitar combines premium materials and expert craftsmanship to produce a high-quality classical instrument. Its design and construction contribute to its distinctive tone and playability.
Design and Materials
The Martin N-20 features a body made entirely of Brazilian rosewood, prized for its rich tonal properties. The top is crafted from Sitka spruce, known for its excellent resonance and strength-to-weight ratio. This combination of woods produces a balanced, responsive sound.
The neck is typically made of mahogany, offering stability and a smooth playing feel. The fretboard is constructed from ebony, providing durability and a sleek appearance. The bridge is also made of ebony, contributing to the guitar's sustain and tonal clarity.
Martin used a dovetail neck joint on the N-20, ensuring a solid connection between the neck and body. This construction method enhances the guitar's overall resonance and sustain.
Tone and Resonance
The Martin N-20's tone is characterized by its warmth, depth, and clarity. The Brazilian rosewood back and sides contribute to a rich, complex sound with pronounced bass response and sparkling highs. The Sitka spruce top allows for excellent sound projection and dynamic range.
The guitar's nylon strings produce a mellower tone compared to steel-string acoustics, making it ideal for fingerstyle playing and classical repertoire. The N-20's tone improves with age as the wood settles and resonates more freely.
Its balanced sound profile makes it versatile enough for various musical styles beyond classical, including folk and jazz. The guitar's excellent sustain and note definition allow for expressive playing and intricate fingerpicking patterns.
Customizations and Upgrades
Willie Nelson's Martin N-20 guitar, affectionately named "Trigger," has undergone several modifications over the years to suit his unique playing style and keep it playable despite heavy use.
The Prismatone Pickup
The most significant upgrade to Trigger was the addition of a Prismatone pickup. This pickup was originally part of a Baldwin acoustic-electric guitar Nelson owned previously. When that guitar was damaged, Nelson had the pickup transferred to his Martin N-20.
The Prismatone pickup gives Trigger its distinctive amplified sound. It allows Nelson to achieve his signature tone when playing live, blending the natural acoustic qualities of the Martin with the electric capabilities of the pickup.
Refitting and Restoration
Over decades of constant use, Trigger has required extensive refitting and restoration work. Mark Erlewine, a renowned luthier, has been responsible for much of this maintenance.
Erlewine's work has included repairing cracks, reinforcing the top, and maintaining the fretboard. Despite the wear and tear, Nelson insists on keeping Trigger's original parts whenever possible.
The guitar's bridge has been replaced multiple times due to wear. Each replacement is carefully fitted to maintain Trigger's unique sound and playability.
Cultural Impact
Willie Nelson's Martin N-20 guitar, affectionately named Trigger, has left an indelible mark on music history and guitar craftsmanship. Its distinctive sound and appearance have become synonymous with Nelson's legacy, influencing musicians and luthiers alike.
Trigger in Music History
Trigger has become an icon in the Nashville music scene and beyond. Its unique tone, shaped by years of playing, has defined Willie Nelson's sound for over five decades. The guitar's nylon strings and classical body produce a mellow tone that perfectly complements Nelson's vocal style.
Trigger's influence extends beyond country music. Its sound has graced collaborations across genres, from jazz to rock. The guitar's longevity and Nelson's dedication to it have inspired other artists to form similar bonds with their instruments.
Many musicians cite Trigger as an inspiration, drawing parallels to Django Reinhardt's Selmer guitar in terms of its cultural significance.
Influence on Guitar Craft
Trigger's lasting impact has influenced guitar makers and players worldwide. Its well-worn appearance, with a large hole in the body, has become a symbol of authenticity in an industry often focused on pristine instruments.
Martin Guitars recognized Trigger's importance by creating the Willie Nelson Limited Edition N-20WN in 1998. This model pays homage to the original, allowing fans to own a piece of music history.
Trigger's modifications, including the Baldwin pickup system, have inspired custom guitar builds. Luthiers now incorporate similar elements into their designs, catering to players seeking Trigger's unique tonal qualities.
The guitar's resilience has also sparked discussions about instrument longevity and the beauty of well-used tools in the music industry.
Limited Edition Models
Martin Guitar honored Willie Nelson with special edition replicas of his iconic "Trigger" guitar. These limited runs celebrated Nelson's legendary instrument and career.
Willie Nelson Limited Edition N-20WN
Martin produced the N-20WN Limited Edition Signature Model in 1998. Only 100 guitars were made in this exclusive run. The N-20WN replicated Willie Nelson's beloved 1969 Martin N-20 classical guitar.
59 of the guitars featured Brazilian rosewood back and sides. The remaining 70 used East Indian rosewood. All had spruce tops. Each N-20WN bore a unique serial number and was individually numbered out of 100.
The guitars aimed to capture the essence of Nelson's famous "Trigger" - one of the most recognizable instruments in music history. Martin worked closely with Nelson to recreate the guitar's specifications and tonal qualities.
Notable Features
The N-20WN incorporated several distinct elements to match Nelson's original guitar. It featured a classical-style body and neck reminiscent of the N-20 model Nelson purchased in 1969.
The headstock included Willie Nelson's signature inlay. Custom internal bracing aimed to replicate "Trigger's" resonant voice. The guitars came equipped with a built-in pickup system for stage use.
Martin designed an aged finish to give the new guitars a vintage appearance similar to Nelson's road-worn instrument. Each N-20WN shipped in a custom hardshell case with Nelson's logo.
Care and Preservation
Willie Nelson's Martin guitar, Trigger, requires careful maintenance and protection to preserve its iconic status and playability. Proper care ensures the instrument's longevity despite extensive use.
Maintaining an Iconic Instrument
Regular cleaning and inspection are crucial for Trigger's upkeep. A soft, dry cloth removes dirt and grime from the guitar's surface after each performance. Cleaning the fretboard with specialized wood oil every few months prevents drying and cracking.
String changes occur as needed, typically every few weeks due to Nelson's heavy playing schedule. The guitar's action and intonation require periodic adjustment by a skilled luthier to maintain optimal playability.
Mark Erlewine, Nelson's trusted luthier, performs more extensive repairs when necessary. This includes fixing cracks, reinforcing weak spots, and addressing wear on the guitar's top caused by Nelson's unique playing style.
Cases and Storage
When not in use, storing Trigger in a quality case is essential. A Deluxe Geib Style 5-Ply Hardshell Vintage Case provides excellent protection against impacts and environmental changes. These cases feature plush interiors and sturdy exteriors, safeguarding the guitar during transport.
Humidity control is vital for wooden instruments. Using a case humidifier helps maintain stable moisture levels, preventing warping or cracking. Temperature fluctuations can also damage guitars, so storing Trigger in a climate-controlled environment when not touring is ideal.
For display purposes, specially designed guitar stands offer secure support while allowing the instrument to be showcased. However, extended exposure to direct sunlight or harsh lighting should be avoided to prevent fading or damage to the finish.
Willie Nelson and His Music
Willie Nelson's distinctive musical style and prolific songwriting have made him a country music legend. His unconventional approach to guitar playing and vocals creates a unique sound that has captivated audiences for decades.
Songwriting and Strumming Style
Willie Nelson's songwriting blends country, folk, and jazz influences. He crafts vivid stories and emotional narratives in his lyrics, often drawing from personal experiences. Nelson's guitar playing on his trusty Martin N-20, nicknamed "Trigger," is equally distinctive.
His strumming technique features a mix of fingerpicking and rhythmic strums. Nelson often plays behind the beat, creating a relaxed, laid-back feel. This style complements his nasal, conversational singing voice.
Nelson's guitar solos incorporate jazz-influenced notes and unexpected chord changes. He frequently uses diminished chords and chromatic runs, adding complexity to his seemingly simple melodies.
Iconic Songs and Performances
"On the Road Again" stands as one of Willie Nelson's most recognizable hits. Released in 1980, the song captures the spirit of a touring musician's life. Its catchy melody and relatable lyrics resonate with fans worldwide.
Other classic Willie Nelson compositions include:
"Crazy" (popularized by Patsy Cline)
"Always on My Mind"
"Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain"
Nelson's live performances showcase his musical versatility. He effortlessly transitions between upbeat honky-tonk numbers and tender ballads. His annual Farm Aid benefit concerts, which he co-founded in 1985, highlight his commitment to supporting American farmers through music.
Legacy and Media
Willie Nelson's guitar Trigger has become an iconic instrument, inspiring documentaries, literature, and exclusive content. Its cultural impact extends far beyond music.
The Documentary 'Mastering the Craft: Trigger'
'Mastering the Craft: Trigger' explores the profound relationship between Willie Nelson and his beloved guitar. The documentary offers an intimate look at Trigger's history and significance.
Viewers gain insights into the instrument's unique modifications and the role it has played in Nelson's career. The film features interviews with Nelson, music historians, and fellow musicians.
Available on iTunes, the documentary has received critical acclaim for its in-depth exploration of Trigger's legacy.
The Tao of Willie and Literature
In his 2006 memoir 'The Tao of Willie: A Guide to Happiness in Your Heart', Nelson dedicates significant attention to Trigger. He describes the guitar's importance to his sound and creative process.
The book provides readers with Nelson's personal reflections on his connection to Trigger. It offers a glimpse into the philosophical approach Nelson takes to music and life.
'The Tao of Willie' has become a popular read among fans and musicians alike, further cementing Trigger's place in musical literature.
Rolling Stone Films and Exclusive Content
Rolling Stone Films has produced exclusive content featuring Willie Nelson and Trigger. These short films offer behind-the-scenes access to Nelson's relationship with his guitar.
The content includes intimate performances and discussions about Trigger's impact on Nelson's music. Viewers can see close-up footage of the guitar's unique wear patterns and modifications.
This exclusive material has helped introduce new generations to the legacy of Willie Nelson and Trigger. It continues to generate interest in the iconic instrument's story.
