Introduction:
In the vast landscape of American country music, few voices resonate with the raw honesty and storytelling prowess of Merle Haggard. Throughout his illustrious career, Haggard carved a niche for himself as an outlaw country pioneer, unafraid to tackle social issues and relatable struggles of the working class. However, 1983 saw a shift in gears with the release of the album That’s The Way Love Goes, showcasing Haggard’s mastery of the genre’s core themes: love, loss, and heartache.
The title track, “That’s The Way Love Goes”, became a defining moment in Haggard’s musical journey. Released in November 1983, the song wasn’t originally penned by Haggard himself. Instead, it was a reinterpretation of a 1973 hit by Johnny Rodriguez, written by the songwriting duo of Lefty Frizzell and Sanger D. Shafer. Ray Baker, a longtime collaborator of Haggard’s, took the producer’s seat for the album, shaping the signature sound that resonated with audiences.
“That’s The Way Love Goes” wasn’t just another song on the album; it became a chart-topping phenomenon. The track spent a remarkable 21 weeks on the country music charts, eventually reaching the coveted number one spot. This wasn’t just a testament to Haggard’s enduring popularity but also a reflection of the song’s ability to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level.
The song’s success transcended commercial achievements. Haggard’s soulful vocals, backed by the impeccable musicianship of his band The Strangers, breathed new life into the composition. His delivery captured the bittersweet reality of love’s complexities – the highs of passion, the lows of heartbreak, and the acceptance of impermanence. This resonated with a generation grappling with similar experiences, solidifying Haggard’s position as a country music icon.
“That’s The Way Love Goes” wasn’t just a hit; it was a critical darling as well. In 1984, Haggard received the prestigious Grammy Award for Best Country Vocal Performance — Male for his rendition of the song. This solidified the song’s place in country music history, etching its mark as a classic of the genre.
The impact of “That’s The Way Love Goes” extended beyond the charts and awards. The song became a staple in Haggard’s live performances, a moment of shared vulnerability and emotional resonance between him and his audience. Haggard even revisited the song later in his career, recording a well-received duet version with country singer Jewel in 1999.
“That’s The Way Love Goes” stands as a testament to Merle Haggard’s artistry. It’s a song that transcends time, capturing the universal language of love and loss with poignant simplicity. This 1983 hit not only marked a turning point in Haggard’s career but also secured its place as a timeless classic in the vast library of country music.
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Lyrics:
I’ve been throwing horseshoesOver my left shoulderI’ve spent most all my lifeSearching for that four-leaf cloverYet you ran with meChasing my rainbowsHoney, I love you tooThat’s the way love goesThat’s the way love goes, babeThat’s the music God madeFor all the world to singIt’s never old, it growsLosing makes me sorryYou say, “Honey, now don’t worryDon’t you know I love you too?”And that’s the way love goesThat’s the way love goes, babeThat’s the music God madeFor all the world to singIt’s never old, it growsLosing makes me sorryAnd you say, “Honey, don’t worryDon’t you know I love you too?”And that’s the way love goes