• Willie Nelson plays for a packed audience at the Smart Financial Centre in Sugar Land on Nov. 14, 2017.See photos of Willie and all his famous friends... Photo: Annie Mulligan, Annie Mulligan / For The Houston Chronicle / @ 2017 Annie Mulligan & the Houston Chronicle
Photo: Annie Mulligan, Annie Mulligan / For The Houston Chronicle
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Willie Nelson plays for a packed audience at the Smart Financial Centre in Sugar Land on Nov. 14, 2017.


See photos of Willie and all his famous friends...
Willie Nelson plays for a packed audience at the Smart Financial Centre in Sugar Land on Nov. 14, 2017.

See photos of Willie and all his famous friends...
Photo: Annie Mulligan, Annie Mulligan / For The Houston Chronicle
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PHOTOS: 84 pictures of Willie Nelson with all his famous friends

Willie is a popular guy and his easy-going demeanor blends just as well with Billy Gibbons (from ZZ Top, pictured) as it does with politicians and Hollywood stars like Zooey Deschanel.


Click through to see all the people who have crossed paths with the Red Headed Stranger....
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PHOTOS: 84 pictures of Willie Nelson with all his famous friends

Willie is a popular guy and his easy-going demeanor blends just as well with Billy Gibbons (from ZZ Top, pictured) as it does with politicians

... more
Photo: Gary Miller, File / Getty
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Willie Nelson, Megan Mullally and Nick Offerman attend the ACL Hall of Fame taping at ACL Live on October 12, 2016 in Austin, Texas.

Willie Nelson, Megan Mullally and Nick Offerman attend the ACL Hall of Fame taping at ACL Live on October 12, 2016 in Austin, Texas.

Photo: Gary Miller/Getty Images
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Willie Nelson and Neil Young at the Farm Aid press conference at Jiffy Lube Live in Bristow, Virginia on September 17, 2016.

Willie Nelson and Neil Young at the Farm Aid press conference at Jiffy Lube Live in Bristow, Virginia on September 17, 2016.

Photo: Ebet Roberts/Redferns
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CENTURY CITY - JULY 13: Willie Nelson and Richard Dreyfuss attend the Turner National Cable Forum - on July 13, 1990 at the Century Plaza Hotel in Century City, California. (Photo by Joan Adlen/Getty Images) less
CENTURY CITY - JULY 13: Willie Nelson and Richard Dreyfuss attend the Turner National Cable Forum - on July 13, 1990 at the Century Plaza Hotel in Century City, California. (Photo by Joan Adlen/Getty ... more
Photo: Joan Adlen Photography, File / Getty
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NEW YORK, NY - NOVEMBER 20: Johnny Knoxville and Willie Nelson visit the SiriusXM Studios on November 20, 2012 in New York City. (Photo by Cindy Ord/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NY - NOVEMBER 20: Johnny Knoxville and Willie Nelson visit the SiriusXM Studios on November 20, 2012 in New York City. (Photo by Cindy Ord/Getty Images)
Photo: Cindy Ord, File / Getty
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TODAY -- Pictured: (l-r) Matt Lauer and Willie Nelson appear on NBC News' "Today" show -- (Photo by: Peter Kramer/NBC/NBC NewsWire via Getty Images)
TODAY -- Pictured: (l-r) Matt Lauer and Willie Nelson appear on NBC News' "Today" show -- (Photo by: Peter Kramer/NBC/NBC NewsWire via Getty Images)
Photo: NBC NewsWire, File / Getty
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TODAY -- Pictured: (l-r) Kesha and Willie Nelson appear on NBC News' "Today" show -- (Photo by: Peter Kramer/NBC/NBC NewsWire via Getty Images)
TODAY -- Pictured: (l-r) Kesha and Willie Nelson appear on NBC News' "Today" show -- (Photo by: Peter Kramer/NBC/NBC NewsWire via Getty Images)
Photo: NBC NewsWire, File / Getty
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HERSHEY, PA - SEPTEMBER 22: Willie Nelson and Grace Potter perform during Farm Aid 2012 at Hersheypark Stadium on September 22, 2012 in Hershey, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Timothy Hiatt/Getty Images)
HERSHEY, PA - SEPTEMBER 22: Willie Nelson and Grace Potter perform during Farm Aid 2012 at Hersheypark Stadium on September 22, 2012 in Hershey, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Timothy Hiatt/Getty Images)
Photo: Timothy Hiatt, File / Getty
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THE TONIGHT SHOW WITH JAY LENO -- Episode 1262 -- Pictured: (l-r) Profesional boxer Tex Cobb and singer Willie Nelson during the "Tex Cobb/ Willie Nelson Fight in Phillie" skit on November 13, 1997 -- (Photo by: Margaret Norton/NBC/NBCU Photo Bank via Getty Images) less
THE TONIGHT SHOW WITH JAY LENO -- Episode 1262 -- Pictured: (l-r) Profesional boxer Tex Cobb and singer Willie Nelson during the "Tex Cobb/ Willie Nelson Fight in Phillie" skit on November 13, 1997 -- (Photo ... more
Photo: NBC, File / Getty
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James Caan visits his old prison mate Willie Nelson in a scene from the United Artist movie "Thief", circa 1981. (Photo by Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)
James Caan visits his old prison mate Willie Nelson in a scene from the United Artist movie "Thief", circa 1981. (Photo by Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)
Photo: Michael Ochs Archives, File / Getty
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JIMMY KIMMEL LIVE - Emmy Award-nominated "Jimmy Kimmel Live" airs every weeknight (11:35 p.m. - 12:41 a.m., ET), packed with hilarious comedy bits and features a diverse lineup of guests including celebrities, athletes, musicians, comedians and humorous human interest subjects. This week, ABC's "Jimmy Kimmel Live" broadcasts from The Joe R. and Teresa Lozano Long Center for the Performing Arts in Austin, Texas for a week of shows associated with the 29th annual South by Southwest� (SXSW(r)) Festival. The guests for FRIDAY, MARCH 20 included actor Willie Nelson, Colin Hanks ("All Things Must Pass") and musical guest Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros. (Randy Holmes/ABC via Getty Images) less
JIMMY KIMMEL LIVE - Emmy Award-nominated "Jimmy Kimmel Live" airs every weeknight (11:35 p.m. - 12:41 a.m., ET), packed with hilarious comedy bits and features a diverse lineup of guests including celebrities, ... more
Photo: Randy Holmes, File / Getty
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UNITED STATES - MARCH 01: Robert Duvall, Allan Hubbard and Wille Nelson (Photo by The LIFE Picture Collection/Getty Images)
UNITED STATES - MARCH 01: Robert Duvall, Allan Hubbard and Wille Nelson (Photo by The LIFE Picture Collection/Getty Images)
Photo: Time & Life Pictures, File / Getty
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Former President Bill Clinton and Willie Nelson during "Willie Nelson and Friends: Live and Kickin'" Premieres on USA Network May 26, 2003 - Show at Beacon Theatre in New York City, New York, United States. (Photo by Theo Wargo/WireImage) less
Former President Bill Clinton and Willie Nelson during "Willie Nelson and Friends: Live and Kickin'" Premieres on USA Network May 26, 2003 - Show at Beacon Theatre in New York City, New York, United States. ... more
Photo: Theo Wargo, File / Getty
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Keith Richards and Willie Nelson during Willie Nelson and Friends: "Outlaws & Angels" - Show and Backstage at Wiltern Theatre in Los Angeles, California, United States. (Photo by L. Cohen/WireImage for NBC Universal Photo Department) less
Keith Richards and Willie Nelson during Willie Nelson and Friends: "Outlaws & Angels" - Show and Backstage at Wiltern Theatre in Los Angeles, California, United States. (Photo by L. Cohen/WireImage for NBC ... more
Photo: L. Cohen, File / Getty
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Merle Haggard, Keith Richards, Willie Nelson, Jerry Lee Lewis and Kid Rock (Photo by M. Caulfield/WireImage for NBC Universal Photo Department)
Merle Haggard, Keith Richards, Willie Nelson, Jerry Lee Lewis and Kid Rock (Photo by M. Caulfield/WireImage for NBC Universal Photo Department)
Photo: Michael Caulfield Archive, File / Getty
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Bob Dylan and Willie Nelson during Willie Nelson and Friends: "Outlaws & Angels" - Show and Backstage at Wiltern Theatre in Los Angeles, California, United States. (Photo by L. Cohen/WireImage for NBC Universal Photo Department) less
Bob Dylan and Willie Nelson during Willie Nelson and Friends: "Outlaws & Angels" - Show and Backstage at Wiltern Theatre in Los Angeles, California, United States. (Photo by L. Cohen/WireImage for NBC Universal ... more
Photo: L. Cohen, File / Getty
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UNITED STATES - MARCH 18: Willie Nelson (Photo by The LIFE Picture Collection/Getty Images)
UNITED STATES - MARCH 18: Willie Nelson (Photo by The LIFE Picture Collection/Getty Images)
Photo: Time & Life Pictures, File / Getty
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UNITED STATES - MARCH 18: Willie Nelson (Photo by The LIFE Picture Collection/Getty Images)
UNITED STATES - MARCH 18: Willie Nelson (Photo by The LIFE Picture Collection/Getty Images)
Photo: Time & Life Pictures, File / Getty
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UNITED STATES - MARCH 18: Willie Nelson (Photo by The LIFE Picture Collection/Getty Images)
UNITED STATES - MARCH 18: Willie Nelson (Photo by The LIFE Picture Collection/Getty Images)
Photo: Time & Life Pictures, File / Getty
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Willie Nelson performs on stage with Dyan Cannon and James Garner, New York, 1980. (Photo by Michael Putland/Getty Images)
Willie Nelson performs on stage with Dyan Cannon and James Garner, New York, 1980. (Photo by Michael Putland/Getty Images)
Photo: Michael Putland, File / Getty
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Willie Nelson and Lyle Lovett during VH1's Willie Nelson and Friends at The Roxy in Hollywood, CA, United States. (Photo by Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic, Inc)
Willie Nelson and Lyle Lovett during VH1's Willie Nelson and Friends at The Roxy in Hollywood, CA, United States. (Photo by Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic, Inc)
Photo: Jeff Kravitz, File / Getty
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THE TONIGHT SHOW STARRING JOHNNY CARSON -- Air Date 09/26/1984 -- Pictured: (l-r) Musical guest Julio Iglesias performs with host Johnny Carson as Willie Nelson on September 26, 1984 (Photo by Gary Null/NBC/NBCU Photo Bank via Getty Images) less
THE TONIGHT SHOW STARRING JOHNNY CARSON -- Air Date 09/26/1984 -- Pictured: (l-r) Musical guest Julio Iglesias performs with host Johnny Carson as Willie Nelson on September 26, 1984 (Photo by Gary ... more
Photo: NBC, File / Getty
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AUSTIN, TX - APRIL 20: Musician Willie Nelson poses after the unveiling of his statue at ACL Live on April 20, 2012 in Austin, Texas. (Photo by Gary Miller/FilmMagic)
AUSTIN, TX - APRIL 20: Musician Willie Nelson poses after the unveiling of his statue at ACL Live on April 20, 2012 in Austin, Texas. (Photo by Gary Miller/FilmMagic)
Photo: Gary Miller, File / Getty
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SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE -- Episode 12 -- Pictured: (l-r) Nora Dunn, Danny DeVito, Willie Nelson, Victoria Jackson, Dana Carvey during "Closing" on February 21, 1987 (Photo by R.M. Lewis Jr./NBC/NBCU Photo Bank via Getty Images) less
SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE -- Episode 12 -- Pictured: (l-r) Nora Dunn, Danny DeVito, Willie Nelson, Victoria Jackson, Dana Carvey during "Closing" on February 21, 1987 (Photo by R.M. Lewis Jr./NBC/NBCU Photo Bank via ... more
Photo: NBC, File / Getty
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SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE -- Episode 12 -- Pictured: (l-r) Danny DeVito, Nora Dunn as Ann Landers, Willie Nelson, Dana Carvey as Church Lady during "Church Chat" skit on February 21, 1987 (Photo by R.M. Lewis Jr./NBC/NBCU Photo Bank via Getty Images) less
SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE -- Episode 12 -- Pictured: (l-r) Danny DeVito, Nora Dunn as Ann Landers, Willie Nelson, Dana Carvey as Church Lady during "Church Chat" skit on February 21, 1987 (Photo by R.M. Lewis ... more
Photo: NBC, File / Getty
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Willie Nelson (left) and guest during 39th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards - Backstage and Audience at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada, United States. (Photo by L. Cohen/WireImage for Bragman Nyman Cafarelli) less
Willie Nelson (left) and guest during 39th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards - Backstage and Audience at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada, United States. (Photo by L. Cohen/WireImage for ... more
Photo: L. Cohen, File / Getty
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George Strait and Willie Nelson during 39th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards - Backstage and Audience at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada, United States. (Photo by L. Cohen/WireImage for Bragman Nyman Cafarelli) less
George Strait and Willie Nelson during 39th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards - Backstage and Audience at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada, United States. (Photo by L. Cohen/WireImage ... more
Photo: L. Cohen, File / Getty
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Willie Nelson, Angie Everhart, Burt Reynolds and Toby Keith (Photo by L. Cohen/WireImage for NBC Universal Photo Department)
Willie Nelson, Angie Everhart, Burt Reynolds and Toby Keith (Photo by L. Cohen/WireImage for NBC Universal Photo Department)
Photo: L. Cohen, File / Getty
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Toby Keith, Sylvester Stallone, Willie Nelson and Los Lonely Boys (Photo by L. Cohen/WireImage for NBC Universal Photo Department)
Toby Keith, Sylvester Stallone, Willie Nelson and Los Lonely Boys (Photo by L. Cohen/WireImage for NBC Universal Photo Department)
Photo: L. Cohen, File / Getty
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Willie Nelson and Elvis Costello during "Willie Nelson and Friends: Live and Kickin'" Premiers on USA Network on May 26, 2003 - Rehearsal and Backstage at Beacon Theatre in New York City, New York, United States. (Photo by Theo Wargo/WireImage) less
Willie Nelson and Elvis Costello during "Willie Nelson and Friends: Live and Kickin'" Premiers on USA Network on May 26, 2003 - Rehearsal and Backstage at Beacon Theatre in New York City, New York, United ... more
Photo: Theo Wargo, File / Getty
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Norah Jones (center) and Willie Nelson during "Willie Nelson and Friends: Live and Kickin'" Premiers on USA Network on May 26, 2003 - Rehearsal and Backstage at Beacon Theatre in New York City, New York, United States. (Photo by KMazur/WireImage) less
Norah Jones (center) and Willie Nelson during "Willie Nelson and Friends: Live and Kickin'" Premiers on USA Network on May 26, 2003 - Rehearsal and Backstage at Beacon Theatre in New York City, New York, United ... more
Photo: KMazur, File / Getty
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Shania Twain and Willie Nelson during "Willie Nelson and Friends: Live and Kickin'" Premiers on USA Network on May 26, 2003 - Rehearsal and Backstage at Beacon Theatre in New York City, New York, United States. (Photo by KMazur/WireImage) less
Shania Twain and Willie Nelson during "Willie Nelson and Friends: Live and Kickin'" Premiers on USA Network on May 26, 2003 - Rehearsal and Backstage at Beacon Theatre in New York City, New York, United States. ... more
Photo: KMazur, File / Getty
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Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash during An All-Star Tribute to Johnny Cash at Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City, New York, United States. (Photo by KMazur/WireImage)
Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash during An All-Star Tribute to Johnny Cash at Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City, New York, United States. (Photo by KMazur/WireImage)
Photo: KMazur, File / Getty
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Paul Williams, Dolly Parton & Willie Nelson during The Songwriters Hall of Fame 32nd Annual Awards Induction at The Sheraton Hotel in New York City, New York, United States. (Photo by KMazur/WireImage)
Paul Williams, Dolly Parton & Willie Nelson during The Songwriters Hall of Fame 32nd Annual Awards Induction at The Sheraton Hotel in New York City, New York, United States. (Photo by KMazur/WireImage)
Photo: KMazur, File / Getty
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Ray Charles, Whoopi Goldberg and Willie Nelson during "Willie Nelson and Friends: Live and Kickin'" Premiers on USA Network on May 26, 2003 - Rehearsal and Backstage at Beacon Theatre in New York City, New York, United States. (Photo by KMazur/WireImage) less
Ray Charles, Whoopi Goldberg and Willie Nelson during "Willie Nelson and Friends: Live and Kickin'" Premiers on USA Network on May 26, 2003 - Rehearsal and Backstage at Beacon Theatre in New York City, New ... more
Photo: KMazur, File / Getty
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SLUG: ST-WILLIE. DATE: September, 6, 2007 CREDIT: Bill O'Leary / TWP. COLUMBIA, MD. The Last of the Breed tour plays Merriweather Post Pavilion, featuring Willie Nelson, Merle Haggard and Ray Price. Pictured, Merle Haggard, left, and Willie Nelson perform a duet. (Photo by Bill O'Leary/The Washington Post/Getty Images) less
SLUG: ST-WILLIE. DATE: September, 6, 2007 CREDIT: Bill O'Leary / TWP. COLUMBIA, MD. The Last of the Breed tour plays Merriweather Post Pavilion, featuring Willie Nelson, Merle Haggard and Ray Price. Pictured, ... more
Photo: The Washington Post, File / Getty
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L-R: American musicians Minnie Pearl, Ray Charles and Willie Nelson smile together at an unidentified event, 1980s. (Photo by Hulton Archive/Getty Images)
L-R: American musicians Minnie Pearl, Ray Charles and Willie Nelson smile together at an unidentified event, 1980s. (Photo by Hulton Archive/Getty Images)
Photo: Hulton Archive, File / Getty
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(L-R) Actor/musician Kris Kristofferson and musician Willie Nelson, holding his award, at Academy of Country Music Awards. (Photo by Time Life Pictures/DMI/The LIFE Picture Collection/Getty Images)
(L-R) Actor/musician Kris Kristofferson and musician Willie Nelson, holding his award, at Academy of Country Music Awards. (Photo by Time Life Pictures/DMI/The LIFE Picture Collection/Getty Images)
Photo: Time Life Pictures, File / Getty
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(L-R) C/W singer Willie Nelson performing w. singer Paul Simon, both playing their guitars, on stage during Farm Aid V concert at Texas Stadium. (Photo by Mark Perlstein/The LIFE Images Collection/Getty Images) less
(L-R) C/W singer Willie Nelson performing w. singer Paul Simon, both playing their guitars, on stage during Farm Aid V concert at Texas Stadium. (Photo by Mark Perlstein/The LIFE Images Collection/Getty ... more
Photo: Mark Perlstein, File / Getty
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UNITED STATES - OCTOBER 12: FARM AID Photo of Willie NELSON and John MELLENCAMP and Neil YOUNG, L-R Neil Young, John Mellencamp and Willie Nelson backstage at Farm Aid (Photo by Ebet Roberts/Redferns)
UNITED STATES - OCTOBER 12: FARM AID Photo of Willie NELSON and John MELLENCAMP and Neil YOUNG, L-R Neil Young, John Mellencamp and Willie Nelson backstage at Farm Aid (Photo by Ebet Roberts/Redferns)
Photo: Ebet Roberts, File / Getty
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Steven Tyler and Willie Nelson (Photo by KMazur/WireImage)
Steven Tyler and Willie Nelson (Photo by KMazur/WireImage)
Photo: KMazur, File / Getty
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UNITED STATES - OCTOBER 12: FARM AID Photo of Willie NELSON and Freddy FENDER and Augie MYERS and Doug SAHM and Flaco JIMENEZ, L-R Freddy Fender,Willie Nelson, Augie Myers, Doug Sahm and Flaco Jimenez backstage at Farm Aid (Photo by Ebet Roberts/Redferns) less
UNITED STATES - OCTOBER 12: FARM AID Photo of Willie NELSON and Freddy FENDER and Augie MYERS and Doug SAHM and Flaco JIMENEZ, L-R Freddy Fender,Willie Nelson, Augie Myers, Doug Sahm and Flaco Jimenez ... more
Photo: Ebet Roberts, File / Getty
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WASHINGTON - OCTOBER 26: Comedian Chris Rock (L) hugs singer Willie Nelson at the 12th annual Mark Twain Prize for American Humor at the John F. Kennedy Center on October 26, 2009 in Washington, DC. The honoree this year is Bill Cosby. (Photo by Brendan Hoffman/Getty Images) less
WASHINGTON - OCTOBER 26: Comedian Chris Rock (L) hugs singer Willie Nelson at the 12th annual Mark Twain Prize for American Humor at the John F. Kennedy Center on October 26, 2009 in Washington, DC. The ... more
Photo: Brendan Hoffman, File / Getty
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ST LOUIS, MO - OCTOBER 04: Willie Nelson, Lukas Nelson and Billy Joe Shaver perform during Farm Aid 2009 at the Verizon Wireless Amphitheater on October 4, 2009 in St Louis, Missouri. (Photo by Taylor Hill/Getty Images) less
ST LOUIS, MO - OCTOBER 04: Willie Nelson, Lukas Nelson and Billy Joe Shaver perform during Farm Aid 2009 at the Verizon Wireless Amphitheater on October 4, 2009 in St Louis, Missouri. (Photo by Taylor ... more
Photo: Taylor Hill, File / Getty
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NEW YORK - 1978: Willie Nelson and Waylon Jennings enjoy a drink together in New York in 1978 (Photo by Richard E. Aaron/Redferns)
NEW YORK - 1978: Willie Nelson and Waylon Jennings enjoy a drink together in New York in 1978 (Photo by Richard E. Aaron/Redferns)
Photo: Richard E. Aaron, File / Getty
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WAILEA, HI - JUNE 18: Actress and singer Zooey Deschanel (L) and country legend Willie Nelson attend Shep Gordon's Party during the 10th Annual Maui Film Festival at Mala on June 18, 2009 in Wailea, Hawaii. (Photo by Michael Buckner/Getty Images) less
WAILEA, HI - JUNE 18: Actress and singer Zooey Deschanel (L) and country legend Willie Nelson attend Shep Gordon's Party during the 10th Annual Maui Film Festival at Mala on June 18, 2009 in Wailea, Hawaii. ... more
Photo: Michael Buckner, File / Getty
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Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson and Johnny Cash (Photo by Jim Smeal/WireImage)
Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson and Johnny Cash (Photo by Jim Smeal/WireImage)
Photo: Jim Smeal, File / Getty
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UNITED STATES - JANUARY 04: BOTTOMLINE Photo of Willie NELSON and Rita COOLIDGE and Kris KRISTOFFERSON, w/Rita Coolidge & Willie Nelson (Photo by Richard E. Aaron/Redferns)
UNITED STATES - JANUARY 04: BOTTOMLINE Photo of Willie NELSON and Rita COOLIDGE and Kris KRISTOFFERSON, w/Rita Coolidge & Willie Nelson (Photo by Richard E. Aaron/Redferns)
Photo: Richard E. Aaron, File / Getty
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Former US Pres. James E. Carter Jr. (L) smiling broadly and standing next to Country and Western singer Willie Nelson (R) at concert during the town's 100th anniversary. (Photo by Thomas S. England/The LIFE Images Collection/Getty Images) less
Former US Pres. James E. Carter Jr. (L) smiling broadly and standing next to Country and Western singer Willie Nelson (R) at concert during the town's 100th anniversary. (Photo by Thomas S. England/The LIFE ... more
Photo: Thomas S. England, File / Getty
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HOLLYWOOD , CA - JULY 28: Actress/singer Jessica Simpson (right) and actor/singer Willie Nelson arrive at the Premiere Of "The Dukes of Hazzard" at the Grauman's Chinese Theatre on July 28, 2005 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images) less
HOLLYWOOD , CA - JULY 28: Actress/singer Jessica Simpson (right) and actor/singer Willie Nelson arrive at the Premiere Of "The Dukes of Hazzard" at the Grauman's Chinese Theatre on July 28, 2005 in Hollywood, ... more
Photo: Kevin Winter, File / Getty
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NEW YORK - OCTOBER 31: Singer Willie Nelson and Bette Midler pose together at Bette Midler's New York Restoration Project's Annual Hulaween gala benefit at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel October, 31, 2006 in New York City. (Photo by Evan Agostini/Getty Images) less
NEW YORK - OCTOBER 31: Singer Willie Nelson and Bette Midler pose together at Bette Midler's New York Restoration Project's Annual Hulaween gala benefit at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel October, 31, 2006 in New ... more
Photo: Evan Agostini, File / Getty
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UNSPECIFIED - JANUARY 01: (AUSTRALIA OUT) Photo of David Allen COE and Willie NELSON; L-R. Willie Nelson, David Allen Coe (Photo by GAB Archive/Redferns)
UNSPECIFIED - JANUARY 01: (AUSTRALIA OUT) Photo of David Allen COE and Willie NELSON; L-R. Willie Nelson, David Allen Coe (Photo by GAB Archive/Redferns)
Photo: GAB Archive, File / Getty
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UNITED STATES - SEPTEMBER 18: FARM AID Photo of Willie NELSON and WAVY GRAVY, Willie Nelson and Wavy Gravy backstage at Farm Aid (Photo by Ebet Roberts/Redferns)
UNITED STATES - SEPTEMBER 18: FARM AID Photo of Willie NELSON and WAVY GRAVY, Willie Nelson and Wavy Gravy backstage at Farm Aid (Photo by Ebet Roberts/Redferns)
Photo: Ebet Roberts, File / Getty
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UNITED STATES - MAY 27: RADIO CITY MUSIC HALL Photo of Willie NELSON and Glen CAMPBELL, Willie Nelson and Glen Campbell performing on stage (Photo by Ebet Roberts/Redferns)
UNITED STATES - MAY 27: RADIO CITY MUSIC HALL Photo of Willie NELSON and Glen CAMPBELL, Willie Nelson and Glen Campbell performing on stage (Photo by Ebet Roberts/Redferns)
Photo: Ebet Roberts, File / Getty
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N 342792 001 12/06/98 Washington Dc Singer And Songwriter Willie Nelson Arrives In The East Room At The White House As Part Of The "1998 Kennedy Center Honors" Festivities. Actor, Comedian Bill Cosby Looks On. (Photo By Pool/Getty Images) less
N 342792 001 12/06/98 Washington Dc Singer And Songwriter Willie Nelson Arrives In The East Room At The White House As Part Of The "1998 Kennedy Center Honors" Festivities. Actor, Comedian Bill Cosby Looks On. ... more
Photo: Pool, File / Getty
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Willie Nelson, Kermit the Frog and Judy Collins at the Song Writers Hall of Fame Awards at the New York Sheraton Hotel and Towers. June 14, 2001 Photo: Scott Gries/ImageDirect
Willie Nelson, Kermit the Frog and Judy Collins at the Song Writers Hall of Fame Awards at the New York Sheraton Hotel and Towers. June 14, 2001 Photo: Scott Gries/ImageDirect
Photo: Scott Gries, File / Getty
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Willie Nelson accepts award from Dave Matthews at the Songwriters Hall of Fame 32nd Annual Awards at Sheraton New York Hotel and Towers in New York City. June 14, 2001. Photo: Scott Gries/ImageDirect
Willie Nelson accepts award from Dave Matthews at the Songwriters Hall of Fame 32nd Annual Awards at Sheraton New York Hotel and Towers in New York City. June 14, 2001. Photo: Scott Gries/ImageDirect
Photo: Scott Gries, File / Getty
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CIRCA 1975: Country singers Willie Nelson and Johnny Cash perform onstage with acoustic guitars in circa 1975. (Photo by Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)
CIRCA 1975: Country singers Willie Nelson and Johnny Cash perform onstage with acoustic guitars in circa 1975. (Photo by Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)
Photo: Michael Ochs Archives, File / Getty
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SANTA MONICA, CA - APRIL 14: Musicians Willie Nelson and k.d. lang hug onstage during the 5th Annual TV Land Awards held at Barker Hangar on April 14, 2007 in Santa Monica, California. The 5th Annual TV Land Awards show will premiere on TV Land network on Sunday, April 22, 2007. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images) less
SANTA MONICA, CA - APRIL 14: Musicians Willie Nelson and k.d. lang hug onstage during the 5th Annual TV Land Awards held at Barker Hangar on April 14, 2007 in Santa Monica, California. The 5th Annual TV Land ... more
Photo: Kevin Winter, File / Getty
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UNSPECIFIED - JANUARY 25: Medium shot of Jessica Simpson as Daisy Duke peeking out of refrigerator at Willie Nelson as Uncle Jesse and Lynda Carter as Pauline, both tied to chairs. (Photo by Sam Emerson/Warner Bros./Getty Images) less
UNSPECIFIED - JANUARY 25: Medium shot of Jessica Simpson as Daisy Duke peeking out of refrigerator at Willie Nelson as Uncle Jesse and Lynda Carter as Pauline, both tied to chairs. (Photo by Sam ... more
Photo: Sam Emerson, File / Getty
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(EXCLUSIVE, Premium Rates Apply) MANSFIELD, MA - SEPTEMBER 20: Singer/Songwriter Willie Nelson and Musician Jerry Lee Lewis backstage at Farm Aid in the Comcast Center on September 20, 2008 in Mansfield, Massachusetts. ******EXCLUSIVE COVERAGE***** (Photo by Rick Diamond/WireImage) less
(EXCLUSIVE, Premium Rates Apply) MANSFIELD, MA - SEPTEMBER 20: Singer/Songwriter Willie Nelson and Musician Jerry Lee Lewis backstage at Farm Aid in the Comcast Center on September 20, 2008 in Mansfield, ... more
Photo: Rick Diamond, File / Getty
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John Mellencamp, Neil Young & Willie Nelson during Farm Aid in Various Locations, (Photo by Paul Natkin/WireImage)
John Mellencamp, Neil Young & Willie Nelson during Farm Aid in Various Locations, (Photo by Paul Natkin/WireImage)
Photo: Paul Natkin, File / Getty
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Ray Price and Willie Nelson at the Beacon Theatre in New York City, New York (Photo by Kevin Mazur/WireImage)
Ray Price and Willie Nelson at the Beacon Theatre in New York City, New York (Photo by Kevin Mazur/WireImage)
Photo: Kevin Mazur, File / Getty
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Lyle Lovett, Willie Nelson, former President Bill Clinton, Whoopi Goldberg and Eric Clapton (Photo by KMazur/WireImage)
Lyle Lovett, Willie Nelson, former President Bill Clinton, Whoopi Goldberg and Eric Clapton (Photo by KMazur/WireImage)
Photo: KMazur, File / Getty
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UNITED STATES - JANUARY 01: Photo of Willie NELSON and BB KING; w/ Willie Nelson (Photo by Ebet Roberts/Redferns)
UNITED STATES - JANUARY 01: Photo of Willie NELSON and BB KING; w/ Willie Nelson (Photo by Ebet Roberts/Redferns)
Photo: Ebet Roberts, File / Getty
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UNITED STATES - JANUARY 01: USA Photo of Tom PETTY and Willie NELSON and Bob DYLAN, w/ Willie Nelson & Tom Petty performing live onstage (Photo by Ebet Roberts/Redferns)
UNITED STATES - JANUARY 01: USA Photo of Tom PETTY and Willie NELSON and Bob DYLAN, w/ Willie Nelson & Tom Petty performing live onstage (Photo by Ebet Roberts/Redferns)
Photo: Ebet Roberts, File / Getty
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UNITED STATES - OCTOBER 03: FARM AID Photo of Willie NELSON and Woody HARRELSON, Actor Woody Harrelson and Willie Nelson on stage at Farm Aid held at the New World Music Theater (Photo by Ebet Roberts/Redferns) less
UNITED STATES - OCTOBER 03: FARM AID Photo of Willie NELSON and Woody HARRELSON, Actor Woody Harrelson and Willie Nelson on stage at Farm Aid held at the New World Music Theater (Photo by Ebet ... more
Photo: Ebet Roberts, File / Getty
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(EXCLUSIVE, Premium Rates Apply) Willie Nelson and Senator Barack Obama (Photo by Rick Diamond/WireImage)
(EXCLUSIVE, Premium Rates Apply) Willie Nelson and Senator Barack Obama (Photo by Rick Diamond/WireImage)
Photo: Rick Diamond, File / Getty
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CIRCA 1985: Country singer/songwriters Willie Nelson & Emmylou Harris perform onstage in circa 1985. (Photo by Larry Hulst/Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)
CIRCA 1985: Country singer/songwriters Willie Nelson & Emmylou Harris perform onstage in circa 1985. (Photo by Larry Hulst/Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)
Photo: Larry Hulst, File / Getty
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Phil Donahue and Willie Nelson during Friars Club Names Burt Reynolds Man of The Year at Waldorf Astoria in New York City, NY, United States. (Photo by Betty Galella/WireImage)
Phil Donahue and Willie Nelson during Friars Club Names Burt Reynolds Man of The Year at Waldorf Astoria in New York City, NY, United States. (Photo by Betty Galella/WireImage)
Photo: Betty Galella, File / Getty
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Willie Nelson, the country music icon who turns 81 this week, poses with Reese Park, 5, one of the youngest pupils of Sam Um, as he receives his fifth-degree black belt in the martial art of Gong Kwon Yu Sul on Monday, April 28, 2014, in Austin, Texas. (AP Photo/Austin American-Statesman, Ralph Barrera) AUSTIN CHRONICLE OUT, COMMUNITY IMPACT OUT, INTERNET AND TV MUST CREDIT PHOTOGRAPHER AND STATESMAN.COM, MAGS OUT less
Willie Nelson, the country music icon who turns 81 this week, poses with Reese Park, 5, one of the youngest pupils of Sam Um, as he receives his fifth-degree black belt in the martial art of Gong Kwon Yu Sul on ... more
Photo: Ralph Barrera, File / Getty
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BOSTON, MA - MAY 11: Willie Nelson (L) and Carole King receive Honorary Doctor of Music Degrees during the 2013 Berklee College Of Music Commencement Ceremony at Berklee College of Music on May 11, 2013 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Paul Marotta/Getty Images) less
BOSTON, MA - MAY 11: Willie Nelson (L) and Carole King receive Honorary Doctor of Music Degrees during the 2013 Berklee College Of Music Commencement Ceremony at Berklee College of Music on May 11, 2013 in ... more
Photo: Paul Marotta, File / Getty
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File-This Sept. 21, 2013, file photo shows Pete Seeger, right, and Willie Nelson on stage during the Farm Aid 2013 concert at Saratoga Performing Arts Center in Saratoga Springs, N.Y. The American troubadour, folk singer and activist Seeger died Monday Jan. 27, 2014, at age 94. (AP Photo/Hans Pennink) less
File-This Sept. 21, 2013, file photo shows Pete Seeger, right, and Willie Nelson on stage during the Farm Aid 2013 concert at Saratoga Performing Arts Center in Saratoga Springs, N.Y. The American troubadour, ... more
Photo: HANS PENNINK, File / Getty
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Photographer Bruce Kessler was at Willie Nelson’s 4th of July Picnic in 1974, held at the Texas World Speedway. He captured photos of the fans and the musical acts that performed over the three-day festival. The speedway will soon be closed to make way for new development on the site. less
Photographer Bruce Kessler was at Willie Nelson’s 4th of July Picnic in 1974, held at the Texas World Speedway. He captured photos of the fans and the musical acts that performed over the three-day festival. ... more
Photo: Bruce Kessler
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Ryan Adams and Willie Nelson courtesy of Lost Highway Records Credit: Danny Clinch
Ryan Adams and Willie Nelson courtesy of Lost Highway Records Credit: Danny Clinch
Photo: HC
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Country music legend Johnny Cash, right, performs in October 1985 with Willie Nelson, left, Kris Kristofferson, second from left, and Waylon Jennings, second from right, in Nashville, Tenn.
Country music legend Johnny Cash, right, performs in October 1985 with Willie Nelson, left, Kris Kristofferson, second from left, and Waylon Jennings, second from right, in Nashville, Tenn.
Photo: MARK HUMPHREY, AP
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Willie Nelson interviewed with host Jay Leno on June 25, 1993.
Willie Nelson interviewed with host Jay Leno on June 25, 1993.
Photo: NBC, NBCU Photo Bank Via Getty Images
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Musical guests Willie Nelson and Wynton Marsalis performed on July 10, 2008.
Musical guests Willie Nelson and Wynton Marsalis performed on July 10, 2008.
Photo: NBC, NBC Via Getty Images
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Singers Willie Nelson (L) and Zac Brown attend the 56th GRAMMY Awards at Staples Center on January 26, 2014 in Los Angeles, California.
Singers Willie Nelson (L) and Zac Brown attend the 56th GRAMMY Awards at Staples Center on January 26, 2014 in Los Angeles, California.
Photo: Christopher Polk, Getty Images
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Willie Nelson and Paul English.
Willie Nelson and Paul English.
Photo: Bear Family Photo
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Willie Nelson and Toby Keith perform Sunday evening Feb. 1, 2004 during the pregame entertainment of Super Bowl XXXVIII between the Carolina Panthers and the New England Patriots.
Willie Nelson and Toby Keith perform Sunday evening Feb. 1, 2004 during the pregame entertainment of Super Bowl XXXVIII between the Carolina Panthers and the New England Patriots.
Photo: Kevin Fujii, Hearst Newspapers
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In 2004, U.S. Rep. Dennis Kucinich, D-Ohio, had at least one high-profile musical backer of his presidential bid, including Willie Nelson, who sang "I Saw the Light" with Kucinich during a fundraiser on January 3, 2004 in Austin, Texas. less
In 2004, U.S. Rep. Dennis Kucinich, D-Ohio, had at least one high-profile musical backer of his presidential bid, including Willie Nelson, who sang "I Saw the Light" with Kucinich during a fundraiser on January ... more
Photo: JACK PLUMKETT, AP
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B. B. King with Willie Nelson onstage 
B. B. King with Willie Nelson onstage 
Photo: (Rich Diamond/Getty Images)
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Even Willie Nelson isn't immune from the crazy crud that is currently ailing a great deal of his fellow Texans.

Nelson, 84, this week canceled a series of upcoming shows due to ill health. According one of his reps on Tuesday, he is resting at his Texas home. The next leg of his tour starts in February as previously planned.

RELATED: Ben Dorcy, the world's oldest roadie and friend of Willie Nelson, has died

A recent show at Harrah's in San Diego ended almost before it began due to Nelson having trouble breathing during opening cut "Whiskey River".

Five shows this week, including a three-night run in Las Vegas, have all been scuttled. Refunds for those and other shows are currently being processed.

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See Willie Nelson evolve from a straight-lace crooner to a marijuana loving, beloved bad boy of country music. Songs include: "Crazy," "My Window Faces the South," "You Were Always on My Mind," "To All the Girls I've Loved Before" (duet with Julio Iglesias) and "On the Road Again."

Media: Houston Chronicle

"Willie has the flu or a very bad cold," wrote Elaine Schock, Nelson's press agent. "He will be fine."

Nelson has, as of late, had sporadic health issues, mostly trouble breathing, while on tour.

Nelson released a new album, "God's Problem Child", in 2017 to rave reviews. He last played the Houston area in November, turning in a rousing show at the Smart Financial Centre in Sugar Land.

Craig Hlavaty is a reporter for Chron.com and HoustonChronicle.com. He's an intolerable native Texan with too much ink in his skin and too much brisket stuck in his teeth.