Willie Nelson Joins Chris Stapleton at Austin City Limits Music Festival

Willie Nelson, the legendary 91-year-old songwriter and guitarist, made a surprise appearance alongside Chris Stapleton at the Austin City Limits Music Festival on Friday night. The duo performed a lively rendition of "Whiskey River," with Nelson's iconic acoustic guitar Trigger in hand.

Nelson released "Whiskey River" on his 1973 album "Shotgun Willie", which marked his transition from Nashville to Austin. This move allowed him to flourish creatively away from the mainstream music industry.

50th Anniversary of 'Austin City Limits'

Nelson is in Austin to celebrate the 50th anniversary of his debut taping for the television show "Austin City Limits" on Oct. 17, 1974. A free public event will be held at the Long Center Lawn next week, with a livestream available at aclturns50.com starting at 7 p.m.

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Nelson and Stapleton's Musical History

Stapleton and Nelson share a long history of collaborations, including multiple appearances at Willie's Fourth of July Picnic and the Outlaw Country Music Tour. Stapleton also performed at Nelson's 90th birthday bash at the Hollywood Bowl last year.