OldiesButGoodies

Country

Merle Haggard – America First

America First

Introduction:

Merle Haggard’s “America First” is a poignant country ballad released in 2005 as part of his album “Chicago Wind.” The song reflects Haggard’s deep-rooted patriotism and his concern for the state of American society.   

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a nation facing internal and external challenges. Haggard expresses his love for America and its people, emphasizing the importance of unity and shared values. He acknowledges the country’s past struggles and triumphs, highlighting the resilience and determination of its citizens.

However, the song also addresses the growing divisions and disillusionment within American society. Haggard critiques the erosion of traditional values and the impact of globalization on the working class. He warns of the dangers of foreign influence and the loss of national identity.

“America First” is a powerful and thought-provoking song that resonates with listeners who share Haggard’s concerns about the future of America. It serves as a reminder of the importance of patriotism, unity, and preserving the American way of life.

Video:

https://youtu.be/UodJB1tRNVE?si=0JCJfjm-VwS7bDQs

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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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