This gospel album was recorded in 1973 at the Los Angeles City Mission church studios, but was not released until 1976 due to contractual disputes with RCA. Nelson had signed with Columbia Records, and the label decided to release these recordings as his first gospel album.
The title 'The Troublemaker' refers to Jesus as a 'troublemaker' in the sense of challenging the established order. The album includes classic gospel hymns and spiritual songs performed in Nelson's unique style, accompanied by his acoustic guitar Trigger and a small group of musicians.
Although initially a personal project, the album became an unexpected success, reaching number 1 on the Billboard gospel albums chart and number 60 on the Billboard 200. It is considered one of Nelson's most heartfelt works.