Willie Nelson’s iconic braids have been a staple of his image for decades. The country music legend first adopted the style in the early 1970s after leaving the Nashville scene and heading to Austin, Texas. Early in his career, Nelson sported a clean-cut look that is almost unrecognizable compared to the Willie fans know today.
In a past interview with Larry King, a fan asked why he has kept the braids for so long and made them such an integral part of his persona. Nelson’s response was characteristically straightforward:
“Well, it pissed a few people off, and I figured it was worth doing.”
While it’s clear that Nelson felt more comfortable and authentic with his braids, the fact that they irritated some people only added to his enjoyment. Known for his rebellious spirit, Nelson’s decision to keep the braids was as much about personal expression as it was about pushing back against expectations.
Nelson recalled the reaction of fellow musician Billy Joe Shaver when he first saw the braids. Shaver, unimpressed, told Nelson he looked “outrageous.” Nelson, in true Willie fashion, took it as a compliment:
“I remember one time, the first time I started wearing braids, I saw Billy Joe Shaver in a studio in Nashville, and he said, ‘You look outrageous.’ I said, ‘thank you.’”
Nelson also reflected on his friendship with Waylon Jennings, describing it as spirited and occasionally competitive. Despite their differences, Nelson emphasized that their bond was strong:
“Well, Waylon and I were the best of friends and we were like an old married couple, you know? We didn’t agree on anything, but we loved each other and we loved to argue.”
Nelson fondly recalled the times he spent touring with Jennings, Kris Kristofferson, and Johnny Cash as part of The Highwaymen. For Nelson, these tours were among the most enjoyable experiences of his life, filled with lively debates and camaraderie.
One can only imagine the lively discussions that took place between these country music legends. To have been a fly on the wall during those moments would have been something truly special.