Legendary country singer, songwriter, guitarist, actor, author and American icon Willie Nelson makes his first appearance at The Lerner Theatre in Elkhart at 8 p.m. April 13.

Born in Abbot, Texas, Nelson began playing guitar at age 7, often playing with his sister, Bobbie, on piano.

During the 1960s, Nelson wrote hit songs including “Night Life” for Ray Price, “Crazy” for Patsy Cline, “Hello Walls” for Faron Young and “Funny How Time Slips Away” for Billy Walker.

In 1975, Nelson and Waylon Jennings led the “outlaw country” movement with hit records such as “Red Headed Stranger” and “Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain.”

Nelson’s songs, “On the Road Again,” “Me and Paul” and “Mamas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up to be Cowboys” cemented his position as one of the all-time great singers in country music history.

One of South Bend’s best attended concerts was on July 4, 2009, when Nelson hosted his annual 4th of July picnic with guests Bob Dylan and John Mellencamp at Coveleski Stadium.

Concert tickets, ranging in price from $49.50 to $69.50, are available at The Lerner Box Office, (574) 293-4469.