If you’ve ever been a fan of country music (or have read any headlines about marijuana legalization in the last 30 years) you’ve probably heard of the legendary, Willie Nelson. Willie, born during the Great Depression, has made a name for himself as one of history’s greatest country songwriters over his ongoing 60+ year career. He is also one of the most prominent icons of the sub-genre, “outlaw country.” Having released critically acclaimed albums such as Shotgun Willie, Red Headed Stranger, and Stardust, Willie Nelson has become the recipient of multiple musical honors, including ten GRAMMY Awards, twelve CMA Awards, and eight American Music Awards.

Of course, no musician receives such high praise without releasing some great songs! In this article, we’ll be showcasing the Willie Nelson song lessons that you can learn on guitar right here at JamPlay! Let’s take a look at our first song.

“On The Road Again” – Willie Nelson

It would be impossible to showcase Willie Nelson’s best work without mentioning his 1980 hit, “On The Road Again.” Nelson wrote the song as the theme for the feature-length film, Honeysuckle Rose. This was the first film in which Nelson starred as the lead role. The song itself went on to peak at number one on Billboard’s US Hot Country Songs, win Best Country Song at the 53rd GRAMMY Awards, and become inducted into the GRAMMY Hall of Fame.

In JamPlay educator, D.J. Phillips‘ song lesson, you’ll learn all of the guitar parts for “On The Road Again.” Check out the full, comprehensive Willie Nelson song lesson here!

“Funny How Time Slips Away” – Willie Nelson

Willie Nelson’s song, “Funny How Time Slips Away” was not originally recorded by Nelson, himself. Before he debuted as a performing artist, Nelson was hired as a behind-the-scenes writer for other artist. This 1961 hit was written for country artist, Billy Walker. Then a year later, Willie Nelson released his own version that appeared on his first solo studio album, …And Then I Wrote.

The song features two distinct guitar parts; one on an acoustic guitar and the other on an electric guitar. D.J. Phillips shows you how to play both of these parts in his comprehensive, “Funny How Time Slips Away” Willie Nelson song lesson. Learn more about the full lesson here!

“Crazy” – Willie Nelson

Another perfect example of Willie Nelson writing a hit for another artist is his song, “Crazy.” This 1961 country ballad was written for Patsy Cline, and became her most recognizable, popular single ever. In fact, her version of the song became so successful in 1961, she was named Billboard’s Favorite Female Country artist that year. Then, of course, Nelson re-recorded the song and released it on his debut album the following year.

This song also features two guitar parts that mainly provide a rhythmic and harmonic landscape under the song’s lyrics and melodies. D.J. Phillips shows you how to play both guitar parts as heard on the recording in his full “Crazy” song lesson!

For more Song Lessons, check out JamPlay.com! JamPlay has over 450 guitar courses from 120+ instructors, and online guitar lessons tailored to every skill level, music genre, and playing style. Click here to learn more.

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