Singer, songwriter, musician, “Okie From Muskogee,” whatever you call him, Merle Haggard is the most well rounded country artist out there. Coming from humble beginnings, Merle grew up learning to walk the mean streets. He worked every job out there and also spent plenty of time in numerous penal institutions. All these life experiences have helped forge the reputation that Merle has as one of country music’s greatest talents.

He made his stage debut at the young age of 15 with Lefty Frizzell, but it was not until after a stint at San Quentin Penitentiary that music truly became his life. His first single, “Singing My Heart Out,” received some airplay on the West Coast, but it was 1963’s “Sing a Sad Song” that jumped him into the Top 20 of Billboard’s Country Charts. The country charts quickly became his second home. In 1966, he hit #1 with “I’m A Lonesome Fugitive” and he also won Top Male Vocalist of the Year at the Academy of Country Music Awards.

Backing him through all of this was his band The Strangers. Despite their name, they were no stranger to stardom either. They have since become known as one of country music’s finest road bands; winning 8 Touring Band of the Year Awards from the Academy of Country Music. “Okie From Muskogee” was the song that had the most impact on his career and also caused the most controversy. The song eventually became #1 and Merle continued on with hit after hit. Throughout all of these years, Merle has had quite an assortment of experiences which have helped him with material for songs like “Lonesome Fugitive,” “Sing Me Back Home” and “Workin’ Man Blues.” His list of nominations, charted singles and awards continue to grow at an ever increasing pace.

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