Introduction:
While Ben Haggard has undoubtedly performed his father Merle Haggard’s classic “Back To The Barrooms” in various live settings, there is no commercially released version of Ben Haggard performing this specific song that would have a distinct release year, album, or chart achievements. Therefore, providing the requested information about Ben Haggard’s version is not possible.
However, we can certainly discuss the original and iconic rendition of “Back To The Barrooms” by Merle Haggard. This quintessential country song was released in 1980 as the title track of his thirty-first studio album, also titled “Back To The Barrooms”. The album was released in October of that year under the MCA Records label.
The genre of “Back To The Barrooms” firmly resides within traditional country music, often categorized as honky-tonk. Merle Haggard was a cornerstone of this sound, known for his raw, honest portrayals of working-class life, heartbreak, and the solace found (or not found) in barrooms. This particular song encapsulates these themes perfectly, with lyrics that speak of returning to the familiar comfort of a bar after the pain of lost love.
While the song “Back To The Barrooms” itself didn’t reach the top of the singles charts, the “Back To The Barrooms” album was a significant success in Merle Haggard’s extensive and celebrated career. It reached number 8 on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart in 1981 and also charted on the year-end charts, reaching number 16 on the Top Country Albums chart for 1981. The album spawned other notable singles, including “I Think I’ll Just Stay Here and Drink” and “Misery and Gin,” which both became Top 10 hits on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. The album itself is considered a classic within Haggard’s discography, embodying the hard-luck, honky-tonk spirit that defined much of his most beloved work. Though Ben Haggard carrying on his father’s musical legacy is noteworthy, the achievements belong to Merle Haggard’s original release of this enduring country anthem.