Willie NelsonWho says that stoners aren't motivated? While many of you no doubt spent your April 20th dozing in a cloud of pot smoke and Dorito crumbs, Willie Nelson chose this year's 420 to release his 420th studio album, "Country Music." (Actually, make it something like his 67th solo effort, but for a 76-year-old who has spent a good portion of his life with a joint in his hand, Willie Nelson sure keeps himself busy.)

Ever since the Texan moved to Nashville at age 27, back in 1960, he's never quite played by the country rules. He struggled to make it as a singer for over a decade -- though he wrote huge hits for others, such as Patsy Cline's heartbreaking "Crazy" -- before finally hitting the big-time in the mid-'70s with tunes like his sparse, beautiful version of "Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain." Concurrently, he was crafting his outsider persona -- alongside fellow Nashville outlaws Waylon Jennings and Kris Kristofferson -- which he's embraced ever since.

Over the years, Nelson has delighted hippies and stoners just as much as farmers and cowboys. (He even scored a late-career hit with the revelation that "Cowboys are Frequently, Secretly Fond of Each Other." And even now, at a time when you'd more expect him to release another reggae record or cameo in another weed-themed comedy film than bring out an album of straight-up country, he's gone and surprised us all again.

Nelson turns 77 in a week's time. Happy birthday, you stylish old dog.





Junk Food Charlie Brown T-Shirt
As is our advice with all retro threads, the committed sartorialist should dig through all the thrift stores they can find to pick out the perfect, faded old political campaign slogan tee. For those looking to get Willie's look at the click of a mouse -- may we suggest this vintage-style "Charlie Brown for President" top? ($17 from Asos.com)

Pattern Bandana
Willie Nelson's bandana is as much of a country icon as Hank Williams' bolo tie, Alan Jackson's mustache and Dolly Parton's, um, tassels. ($8 from UrbanOutfitters.com)

Konstantino Maltese Cross Ring
A suitably rock 'n' roll, rebel style ring is this hefty silver number. ($225 from NeimanMarcus.com)

Tweezerman His Moustache Scissors with Comb
With Willie Nelson, the optimum beard approach is bushy and just a little straggly. But even the redheaded stranger has to keep his facial fuzz from getting too, well, strange.
($16 from Amazon.com)

Fossil Black Dial Watch
($65 from Buckle.com)