When Lukas Nelson was 11 or 12, he asked his legendary father, Willie Nelson, what he wanted for his birthday. Willie simply said, “Play the guitar.” Lukas agreed — and fell in love with it.

Now 35, Lukas performs worldwide with impressive guitar skills and a voice he once compared to sounding like he’d inhaled helium. Though initially insecure about his singing, he’s grown confident, learning how to use his voice more deeply and expressively. Lukas, one of Willie’s eight children, started out playing in his dad’s band and later carved his own path. He won a Grammy in 2020 for his work on A Star is Born, writing and co-producing songs, appearing in the film, and coaching Bradley Cooper vocally. That same night, his dad also won a Grammy, a rare father-son achievement.

Over the years, Lukas has collaborated with stars like Lady Gaga and Neil Young, and he blends his father’s influence with his own musical inspirations — from blues legends to rock icons. While he’s proud to make his dad happy, Lukas says his music now comes from his own passion and voice. When he sings “Always On My Mind,” the bond between him and Willie is undeniable — a touching continuation of his father’s musical legacy.