How Much Is Willie Nelson's Guitar Worth, and Why Does It Smell Like a Texas Barbecue?

Willie Nelson’s guitar, affectionately named “Trigger,” is not just an instrument; it’s a piece of American music history. But how much is it actually worth? The answer is as elusive as the perfect country song. Some say it’s priceless, while others argue it’s worth about $50,000—though that figure feels as outdated as a cassette tape. What’s more intriguing, however, is the peculiar aroma that seems to follow it around, reminiscent of a smoky Texas barbecue. Is it the sweat of decades of performances, the lingering scent of Willie’s favorite herbal remedies, or something more mysterious? Let’s dive into the many facets of this legendary guitar and its curious connection to the world of smells.

The History of Trigger: A Guitar with a Soul

Trigger, a Martin N-20 classical guitar, has been Willie Nelson’s faithful companion since 1969. Over the years, it has developed a distinctive hole near the soundhole, worn down by Willie’s relentless strumming. This wear and tear, far from diminishing its value, have only added to its mystique. The guitar has been played at countless concerts, recorded dozens of albums, and even survived a fire. It’s not just an instrument; it’s a living, breathing artifact of country music.

But what makes Trigger truly unique is its sound. Despite its battered appearance, it produces a rich, warm tone that has become synonymous with Willie’s music. This sound is partly due to the guitar’s construction and partly due to Willie’s unique playing style, which involves using a thumb pick and fingerpicks. The combination of these factors has made Trigger irreplaceable—both to Willie and to his fans.

The Value of Trigger: Priceless or Pricey?

Estimating the value of Trigger is no easy task. On one hand, it’s a custom-made Martin guitar with a storied history, which would typically fetch a high price at auction. On the other hand, its condition—complete with holes, scratches, and a faint aroma of smoke—might deter some collectors. However, for those who appreciate its cultural significance, Trigger is worth far more than its material components.

Some experts have speculated that Trigger could be worth anywhere from $50,000 to $100,000, but these estimates feel conservative. After all, this is the guitar that helped define outlaw country music. It’s been played alongside legends like Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, and Kris Kristofferson. Its value lies not in its physical state but in its intangible legacy.

The Mystery of the Smell: A Texas Barbecue Connection?

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: why does Trigger smell like a Texas barbecue? Theories abound. Some fans believe the scent comes from Willie’s habit of smoking on stage, while others think it’s the result of years of exposure to smoky bars and outdoor concerts. There’s even a rumor that Willie once used the guitar as a makeshift grill during a particularly rowdy camping trip—though this seems unlikely.

A more plausible explanation is that the smell is a combination of sweat, wood polish, and the natural aging process of the guitar’s materials. Over time, the wood has absorbed the scents of its environment, creating a unique olfactory signature. Whatever the cause, the smell has become part of Trigger’s legend, adding another layer to its mystique.

Trigger’s Legacy: More Than Just a Guitar

Trigger is more than just a guitar; it’s a symbol of resilience, creativity, and authenticity. It represents Willie Nelson’s unwavering commitment to his craft and his refusal to conform to industry norms. In a world where so much is disposable, Trigger stands as a testament to the enduring power of art.

As for its future, Willie has stated that he plans to keep playing Trigger until it falls apart—and even then, he might just glue it back together. When the time comes, it’s likely that Trigger will find a home in a museum, where future generations can appreciate its history and, perhaps, catch a whiff of that unmistakable Texas barbecue scent.

FAQs

Q: Why is Willie Nelson’s guitar named Trigger?
A: Willie named it after Roy Rogers’ horse, Trigger, as a nod to his love of classic Westerns.

Q: Has Trigger ever been repaired?
A: Yes, Trigger has undergone numerous repairs over the years, including patches to the soundhole and adjustments to the neck.

Q: Does Willie Nelson own any other guitars?
A: While Trigger is his primary instrument, Willie has been known to play other guitars, particularly during studio sessions.

Q: Can I buy a replica of Trigger?
A: Yes, Martin Guitars has released limited-edition replicas of Trigger, though they lack the wear and tear—and the smell—of the original.

Q: What’s the strangest thing that’s happened to Trigger?
A: Aside from surviving a fire, Trigger once went missing during a tour but was later found in a storage room, unharmed and ready to play.