The indomitable spirit of Willie Nelson, one of America’s most cherished country singers, has found its audible expression in the form of his legendary guitar, Trigger. Amidst the backdrop of the Nashville sound’s popularity, a movement that both captivated and constrained musicians, Nelson’s distinctive approach to music became a beacon for a new subgenre – outlaw country.
Nelson’s philosophy towards music is refreshingly straightforward, as he once revealed, “According to my grandmother, the definition of music is anything that’s pleasing to the ear. Once I learned that, I quit thinking about it.” This uncomplicated attitude has defined Nelson’s musical journey, enabling him to craft enduring country classics.
Even as fame and fortune embraced him, Nelson remained steadfast in his commitment to music, a commitment personified by his enduring companion, Trigger. A Martin N-20 nylon string classical acoustic guitar, Trigger has been Nelson’s steadfast companion throughout his illustrious career, continuing to echo with the same vitality to this day.
For artists seeking a signature sound, Nelson’s approach stands out. Instead of overanalyzing and overthinking, he allowed his unique sound to find him. This revelation came with the discovery and subsequent customization of Trigger.
In the early phases of his career, Nelson experimented with various guitars in search of the perfect match. After a Baldwin guitar that he favored suffered damage, Trigger, a Martin N-20, stepped into the spotlight. However, Nelson’s relationship with Trigger goes beyond the superficial. Expressing a desire to capture the essence of Django Reinhardt’s sound, he sought to amplify the acoustic guitar’s resonance. Taking the electrical components from his damaged Baldwin, he seamlessly integrated them into Trigger, birthing a musical companion that has stood the test of time.
Trigger’s sonic signature, marked by a distinct buzzing and ringing, has become inseparable from Nelson’s playing style. It weaves through his songs, an audible companion that is both distinctive and difficult to ignore. This unique, electrified quality lends a raw authenticity to Nelson’s music, forging a more profound connection with audiences on a human level.
For Nelson, Trigger is more than just a musical instrument; it has become an integral part of him and a defining element of his remarkable career. The worn, weathered wooden body and the subtle buzz that accompanies its notes serve as an unmistakable hallmark of Willie Nelson. The simplicity of Trigger’s creation and maintenance reflects Nelson’s unpretentious approach to making music, capturing the essence of a country legend and his enduring contribution to the genre.
