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Country Music Rebel Willie Nelson Also Has His Own Marijuana Brand; Here's His Net Worth at 90

Explore the financial journey of music icon Willie Nelson, from selling songs for nominal sums to the surprising worth of his iconic guitar, Trigger.

BY SAGARIKA C

PUBLISHED SEP 13, 2023

Willie Nelson performs onstage with Willie Nelson and Family | Getty Images | Rick Kern

Name	Willie Hugh Nelson
Net Worth	$25 Million
Sources of Income	Music, books, acting
Gender	Male
Date of Birth	April 29, 1933
Age	90 years old
Nationality	American
Profession	Guitarist, actor, film and record producer, musician, author

Willie Nelson performs live at The Omni Coliseum | Getty Images | Rick Diamond

Iconic American country music singer-songwriter Willie Nelson, also known for his acting, activism, and writing, has earned a $25 million net worth, in a career spanning more than six decades. Starting early by playing the guitar for local dances in Fort Worth, Texas at the age of 10, Nelson took a brief detour to serve as an Air Force pilot, before becoming a DJ in the 50s. After limited success as a musician in the 60s, Nelson led the country music movement in the 70s with three hit albums. During the same decade, he also made his cinematic with the 1979 film "Electric Horseman." This set the tone for his evolution as a pioneer of country music and a multitalented artist.

What are Willie Nelson's sources of income?

While Nelson's music and royalties from album sales remain his primary source of revenue, he has also produced records for other artists, appeared in movies, and published books to supplement his income. Willie Nelson's salary varies significantly depending on his touring schedules, music releases, and other projects.

Willie Nelson's salary and ventures

According to Parade, Willie Nelson earns an estimated $4.25 million per year. Willie Nelson is rumored to have sold his iconic song "Crazy," which became an enduring classic, for just $50. But the song's fame and acclaim have brought Nelson significant recognition over the years. He also sold the rights to "Family Bible" for $50 when he was struggling as a musician, and "Hello Walls" was offered to Faron Young for $500, although Nelson ultimately profited handsomely from its success.

Nelson's famous guitar "Trigger," which he bought for $750 in 1969, is now at a staggering $800,000 to $900,000. Regarding his Skechers Super Bowl commercial in 2022, the specific payment remains undisclosed. Among his notable business ventures, Nelson is involved in the cannabis industry, which aligns with his advocacy for the legalization of marijuana. Nelson's line of marijuana products has found success in states where cannabis is legal.

Willie Nelson's guitar "Trigger" | Getty Images | Rick Kern

Real estate and overall assets

Nelson's total assets include his Spicewood, Texas home, valued at $3.9 million, and his Lucky Ranch, spread over a 700-acre area, dedicated to the rescue of horses. Additionally, he added a property in Maui, Hawaii to his real estate holdings.

Instagram	990,000 followers
Twitter	699,900 followers
Facebook	6.1 Million followers

Personal life

Nelson has been married four times and has eight children. His family has been an integral part of his journey, with each marriage and family member playing a unique role in his life. His foray into the world of music began after learning the guitar from his grandfather.

Financial and legal disputes

In 1990, Nelson faced a substantial financial setback when the IRS claimed that he owed $32 million in back taxes, and seized his assets. In response to this financial crisis, Nelson hit back with the double album "The IRS Tapes: Who'll Buy My Memories" in 1992. The album's sales, combined with the auctioning of his property, allowed him to settle his tax debt.

Nelson also had multiple run-ins with the law due to his possession of marijuana. First, in 1974, he faced arrest for marijuana possession in Dallas. Then in 1977, Nelson visited the Bahamas after a tour, and customs officials discovered marijuana in his jeans pocket, leading to his arrest and brief imprisonment. He was again caught with marijuana in 1994, 2006, and 2010, but has consistently advocated the legalization of the substance.

Awards and recognition

Throughout his career, Nelson has received numerous recognitions, including 56 Grammy nominations and 10 wins. In 2023, he has once again been nominated for four Grammys, marking his presence at the prestigious awards, after his most recent Grammy victory in 2020.