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Introduction:
In an intimate and heartfelt conversation with Kix Brooks, country music icon Merle Haggard offered a rare, candid look at his thoughts on aging, performance, and the power of a great song. What began as a casual chat quickly revealed layers of wisdom, humility, and reverence for the craft that defined his life. As one of the last great American outlaws of country music, Haggard never chased the spotlight, but his authenticity always found it.
When asked about awards and recognition, Haggard downplayed the glitz that often accompanies industry honors. “They all come from the hearts of the people in the business,” he said, but noted the Kennedy Center Honor held a special place in his heart. “It may be one of the most honest awards because it comes from people who don’t normally identify with our music,” he reflected. That sentiment speaks volumes about Haggard’s enduring ability to transcend genre and touch something more universal—human emotion.
Despite his legendary status, Haggard remains grounded in the daily realities of a musician’s life. He jokes about waking up with the ambition to write a song like “Stardust”—“but hell, it’s already been written.” His humility is striking. At nearly 77 years old, he still battles the weight of performance expectations, even with a guitar that “almost plays itself.” Though his hands tire more easily and travel days are longer, the desire to deliver something genuine never fades. “If I’m gonna be a wimp, stay at home,” he said with a wink, reinforcing the grit that made him a legend.
Perhaps most touching is Haggard’s pride in his band, especially his son on lead guitar. He speaks of their performances with awe, describing a lineup that includes some of the finest musicians he’s ever worked with. “It’s a pleasure for an old guy to finally succeed in one area,” he said with warmth, referring to the dream of building a truly great band.
Haggard also touched on the profound honor of hearing others interpret his songs. From George Strait’s take on Seashores of Old Mexico to Suzy Bogguss’s stunning reinterpretations, he sees these covers not as competition, but as affirmation. “It’s the greatest compliment when somebody else records your songs and kind of hangs their career on what you’re doing,” he noted.
For Merle Haggard, legacy isn’t about fame or trophies. It’s about showing up, being honest, and sharing a piece of himself every time he takes the stage. “I don’t plan anything,” he said simply. “I just meet the moment.” In that spirit, Haggard continues to remind us that the soul of country music lies not in perfection, but in presence—and in the stories we dare to tell with a guitar in hand.