Merle Haggard

Merle Haggard (1937–2016) was an American country singer-songwriter associated with the Bakersfield sound and traditional honky-tonk. Reviewers highlight his live recordings, songwriting and long career that produced many widely known songs.

Born 1937; died 2016 (on his birthday). Early troubled youth including stays in reform school and San Quentin; credited Johnny Cash's performance at San Quentin as influential. Celebrated at the Kennedy Center Honors in 2010 (mentioned in reviews). Reviews reference many signature songs such as "Mama Tried", "Okie From Muskogee", "Kern River", "Misery and Gin" and note chart success and a very large discography (reviews mention over 80 studio recordings and 40 songs reaching number one).

DeBaser reviews praise Merle Haggard's live performances and vast catalog, highlighting his ties to honky-tonk and authentic country. Reviewers recount his troubled youth and chart success and recommend several live recordings. Overall the reviews celebrate his songwriting and legacy.

For:Fans of classic country, honky-tonk audiences, roots music listeners and music-history readers.