Merle Haggard....

[spanone]

Last edited Fri Apr 8, 2016, 12:04 AM - Edit history (1)

Haggard, himself, added to his political ambiguity. He wanted to put out his interracial love song “Irma Jackson” as a single, but this was vetoed by Capitol. He was asked to endorse reactionary presidential candidate George Wallace, but refused. He returned to San Quentin to perform for the inmates in 1971.

Always a rugged individualist who resisted political labels, Haggard remained an outspoken American patriot. He opposed the war in Iraq in 2003 and defended the Dixie Chicks’ free-speech rights. He endorsed Hillary Clinton’s presidential aspirations in 2007, then wrote a song expressing hope for Barack Obama’s inauguration. In recent years, he became interested in conservation and environmental issues. He did yoga, smoked pot, dabbled in herbal medicine and believed in UFO’s and extraterrestrial life.

http://www.musicrow.com/2016/04/legendary-merle-haggard-passes-at-79/

[dhill926]

1. a complex man...

and an artist for the ages...

[awoke_in_2003]

6. An American icon. nt

[pintobean]

2. Thanks for posting this. K&R. /nt

[Sissyk]

3. Thank you, spanone!

K&R

[alarimer]

4. I forgot about Irma Jackson

I don't think it would get airplay today, but only because it's not "bro-country" enough. Doesn't talk about partying by the river or drinking or racing trucks or whatever shallow nonsense passes for country music these days.

[ronnie624]

9. I've always considered him a folk singer.

As you've noted, his music has little in common with run-of-the-mill country music. His is some of the earliest music I remember from childhood, as my mother was a fan.

That nasty grave-dancing OP, is rationalized with nothing but lies.

[Tsiyu]

5. Wonderful tribute

for an amazing performer, writer, singer and musician.

Thanks spanone

[napkinz]

7. K&R

[Bonx]

8. Thoughtful thread. Unlike the other one.

[napkinz]

10. kick

[bigwillq]

11. It doesn't matter to me how famous people vote.

Just sit back and enjoy the music.
Most people here dislike actress Patricia Heaton because she's right wing, but Everybody Loves Raymond is one of my most favorite shows. I don't care who she supports, as long as she makes me laugh.

[Stinky The Clown]

12. KnR Thanks for this post. Nice contrast to that shit screed someone put up yesterday.

[Rex]

13. Well some are confusing him with RWing freaks like Lee Greenwood.

All I can say is they don't know who Merle Haggard was.