OldiesButGoodies

Country

Merle Haggard – If We Make It Through December (1974)

Merle Haggard And The Strangers – If We Make It Through December (1974, Winchester Pressing, Vinyl) - Discogs

Introduction:

In the realm of country music, few songs resonate quite like Merle Haggard’s timeless ballad, “If We Make It Through December”. Released in 1974, this poignant tune paints a vivid picture of working-class struggles during the holiday season. Haggard, a legendary singer-songwriter known for his Bakersfield sound and working-class anthems, delivers a heartfelt performance that resonates with anyone who has ever faced financial hardship.

Composed by Haggard himself, “If We Make It Through December” falls under the genre of country music. The song is a prime example of Haggard’s Bakersfield sound, characterized by its Bakersfield, California roots, prominent electric guitar lines, and a strong emphasis on lyrics that tell relatable stories. The track was produced by Ken Nelson, a longtime collaborator of Haggard’s who played a significant role in shaping the Bakersfield sound. Under Nelson’s guidance, “If We Make It Through December” became a masterclass in balancing Haggard’s signature storytelling with a powerful musical arrangement.

“If We Make It Through December” went on to become a massive commercial success. The song reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart in December 1973 and January 1974, solidifying Haggard’s status as a country music superstar. Its success transcended genre, reaching the Top 30 of the Billboard Hot 100 chart, showcasing its universal appeal. The song’s enduring popularity is further evidenced by its induction into the prestigious Grammy Hall of Fame in 2010. This recognition by the Recording Academy cemented “If We Make It Through December” as a cornerstone of American music.

Beyond its commercial achievements, “If We Make It Through December” resonated deeply with listeners. The song’s poignant lyrics capture the anxieties and heartache of a father struggling to provide for his family during the holiday season. Haggard’s relatable narrative touches on themes of unemployment, financial strain, and the lengths a parent will go to for their children’s happiness. The song struck a chord with working-class audiences who identified with the struggles depicted and found solace in Haggard’s empathetic portrayal.

“If We Make It Through December” continues to be a beloved Christmas classic. Its timeless message of hope and perseverance in the face of adversity ensures its place in holiday playlists for generations to come. The song’s enduring legacy is a testament to Haggard’s songwriting prowess, Nelson’s production sensibilities, and the enduring power of country music to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level.

Video:

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Merle Haggard’s childhood was becoming increasingly chaotic when something entered his life that would eventually change everything: a guitar. His older brother Lowell gave him one when Merle was around 12. Merle began teaching himself, absorbing the records and styles of country heroes such as Bob Wills, Lefty Frizzell and Hank Williams. There were no expensive lessons preparing him for Nashville. There was simply a troubled California kid listening closely and learning how another man’s sadness could live inside a melody. Merle would still make plenty of mistakes. Music didn’t instantly rescue him from running away, juvenile detention or eventually prison. But the guitar remained. Years later, millions would recognize Merle’s voice within seconds. Perhaps that’s because he wasn’t merely learning how to sing songs as a boy. He was slowly learning how to tell the truth about his own life.

Merle Haggard rarely needed to invent heartbreak. He had known it since childhood. In 1946, when Merle was only nine years old, his father, James Haggard, died following a stroke. For a boy who deeply needed his father’s presence, the loss became a turning point. His mother, Flossie, worked to support the family. Merle, meanwhile, became increasingly restless. He skipped school, ran away, got into trouble, and began a long journey through juvenile institutions that eventually led somewhere far darker. Looking back at his life, it is difficult not to see that nine-year-old boy behind many of the adult Merle Haggard’s songs. People later called him a rebel, an outlaw and a survivor. But before any of those labels existed, there was simply a grieving boy who had lost his dad—and never seemed to completely outrun that loss.

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