Most Talked-About Controversies Linked to Willie Nelson

A closer look at the most debated and controversial moments involving Willie Nelson.

Willie Nelson is an iconic American singer-songwriter and guitarist, central to the outlaw country movement as a reaction against Nashville's sound. His albums like *Shotgun Willie*, *Red Headed Stranger*, and *Stardust* cemented his status as a country music legend. Beyond music, Nelson has appeared in numerous films, co-authored books, and actively advocates for biofuels and marijuana legalization, demonstrating his diverse interests and influence.

Sections (7)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals Legacy & Impact

1974: First marijuana arrest

In 1974, Willie Nelson was arrested for marijuana possession in Dallas, Texas.

1977: Arrest for marijuana possession in The Bahamas

In 1977, Willie Nelson was arrested and jailed in The Bahamas after marijuana was found in his luggage. He was later released on bail and ordered to never return to the country.

1994: Marijuana possession arrest near Waco, Texas

In 1994, Willie Nelson was arrested after Texas Highway patrolmen found marijuana in his car near Waco, Texas, preventing him from attending the Grammy Awards.

2005: Failed attempt to name a highway after Nelson

In 2005, a bill to name a section of State Highway 130 after Willie Nelson was dropped after objections were raised due to Nelson's drinking, marijuana advocacy, and Democratic fund raisers.

2006: Arrest for marijuana and hallucinogenic mushroom possession in Louisiana

In 2006, while traveling to Ann W. Richards' funeral, Willie Nelson, along with his manager and his sister, Bobbie, were arrested in St. Martin Parish, Louisiana, and charged with possession of marijuana and hallucinogenic mushrooms. Nelson received six months probation.

January 2008: Lawsuit against the Texas Democratic Party

In January 2008, Willie Nelson filed a suit against the Texas Democratic Party, alleging that the party violated the First and Fourteenth Amendments by refusing to allow co-plaintiff Kucinich to appear on the primary ballot.

November 26, 2010: Arrest for marijuana possession in Sierra Blanca, Texas

On November 26, 2010, Willie Nelson was arrested in Sierra Blanca, Texas, for possession of six ounces of marijuana found in his tour bus. He was later released after paying bail.

2010: Creation of Willie Nelson's TeaPot Party

Following his arrest for marijuana possession in 2010, Willie Nelson created Willie Nelson's TeaPot Party under the motto "Tax it, regulate it and legalize it!".

2010: Doubts About September 11 Attacks

In 2010, during an interview with Larry King, Willie Nelson expressed his doubts regarding the official story of the September 11 attacks, suggesting the buildings collapsed due to implosion rather than the planes.

June 2018: Criticism of Trump administration's family separation policy

In June 2018, Willie Nelson deplored the Trump administration's family separation policy. During his Fourth of July Picnic, he performed a song with Beto O'Rourke, the Democratic candidate for the Senate election in Texas.