OldiesButGoodies

Country

Merle Haggard – Natural High

Natural High by Merle Haggard.wmv - YouTube

Introduction:

Merle Haggard’s “Natural High”, released in 1985, is a timeless country ballad that beautifully encapsulates the intoxicating feeling of love. This classic single, the third track from Haggard’s album It’s All in the Game, quickly climbed the country charts, reaching the number one spot and cementing its place in the hearts of country music fans.

Written by Freddy Powers, “Natural High” is a poignant love song that explores the transformative power of a deep and enduring relationship. Haggard’s heartfelt vocals, combined with the soulful instrumentation, create a captivating atmosphere that draws listeners in. The song’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of a love that lifts the singer out of the doldrums and provides a sense of purpose and joy.

The song’s success can be attributed to its relatable themes and Haggard’s masterful performance. His ability to convey raw emotion through his voice made “Natural High” a resonant anthem for those who have experienced the profound effects of love. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless message and Haggard’s enduring legacy.

“Natural High” remains a cornerstone of Haggard’s extensive discography, a testament to his enduring appeal as a country music icon. The song’s ability to evoke strong emotions and connect with listeners on a deep level has ensured its place in the annals of country music history.

Video:

https://youtu.be/-CVZXSl9C9A?si=NOddyuHt4qHMKcfU

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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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