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In his 85 years on Earth, Willie Nelson has worn many hats: Grammy-winning artist, of course, but also pot activist, actor, best-selling author, and poet, to name just a few. Here, a look back at Willie’s long list of highlights that more than prove his status as “legend.”
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He Has Collaborated with the Greats Whether it’s singing or strumming, whether it’s co-writing or producing, Willie’s never been shy about sharing his talents with stars like Norah Jones, Snoop Dogg, and even a Muppet or two
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And Smoked Pot with Them, Too Few are strangers to Willie’s love affair with weed. John Belushi certainly wasn’t. The late comedian once shared a joint with Willie at the Lone Star Cafe in New York City in 1977
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His Guitar Is Almost as Famous as He Is For almost the entirety of his career, Willie has played a Martin N-20 nylon-string acoustic guitar that he named after Roy Rogers’ horse, “Trigger.” Willie once said of his beloved guitar, “When Trigger goes, I’ll quit.”
Gary Miller/Getty Images He Has a 5th Degree Black Belt in Gongkwon Yusul
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And Is Considered (By Some) To Be a Musical Genius In 2013, Willie, along with fellow country star Kris Kristofferson, received an Honorary Doctor of Music Degree from Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts.
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He’s a Friend to Farmers In 1985, Willie, along with Neil Young and John Mellencamp, founded Farm Aid to help keep farmers from losing their land. In the last 30 years, the event has raised over $50 million to promote family farms across the U.S.
Hulton Archive/Getty Images In General, Willie Knows How To Have a Good Time
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And with a Resume Like This One…
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It’s Easy to See Why Willie Nelson Will Go Down in History as a True American Treasure