Merle Haggard was born and raised in Muskogee, Oklahoma. He grew up in a working-class family and experienced poverty and hardship. As a young man, Haggard was arrested and sent to prison for several years. After his release, he began his career as a country music singer.
“Okie from Muskogee” was written in 1969, at the height of the counterculture movement. Haggard was critical of the counterculture’s values and lifestyle. He believed that the counterculture was destroying the traditional values of America.
Musical Style
“Okie from Muskogee” is a traditional country song with a simple melody and a straightforward message. The song is sung in a first-person perspective, and it tells the story of a man who is proud of his small-town roots and his traditional values.
Lyrics
The lyrics of “Okie from Muskogee” are filled with references to traditional American values. The song talks about the importance of hard work, family, and patriotism. It also criticizes the counterculture’s use of drugs, long hair, and political dissent.
Here are some of the lyrics from the song:
We don’t smoke marijuana in Muskogee We don’t take our trips on LSD We don’t burn our draft cards down on Main Street We like living right and being free
We don’t make a party out of loving We like holding hands and pitching in We don’t let our hair grow long and shaggy Like the hippies out in San Francisco
We still sing “God Bless America” down at the courthouse We still wave Old Glory down at the courthouse And we’re proud to be from Muskogee Where even squares can have a good time
Cultural Impact
“Okie from Muskogee” was a controversial song upon its release. It was criticized by many for its conservative message and its attack on the counterculture. However, the song also resonated with many Americans who were concerned about the changing values of their country.
The song was a commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. It also received critical acclaim, and it was named Song of the Year by the Academy of Country Music in 1970.
“Okie from Muskogee” remains a popular song today. It is often seen as a classic country song that captures the spirit of small-town America.
Conclusion
“Okie from Muskogee” is a complex and controversial song. It is a reflection of the social and political changes that were taking place in America in the late 1960s. The song’s message of traditional values and resistance to change continues to resonate with many people today.