Originally Posted by crash_override

Crash's Song of The Day - 15 JUN 2009


A true American worksong circa 1969, Merle Haggard's raspy and down-home voice belts out the lyrics to to this workin mans ballad in a way that noone could argue that he doesn't mean every damn word of it. The truth in the song is clearly evident, the man relates to the hard working class of southern America in the 1960's. His tales of hard work, beer drinkin', and tough times are something that every coal miner, factory worker, and truck driver probably used as a crutch at one point in time. I grew up listening to my grandpa play this around the campfire, and I never realized the gravity of this song and how much of a reality it is for so many people.

The guitar work in the song is absolutelty stellar, as for traditional country guitar playing goes, you just don't get any better than this. The driving bass line keeps you grooving through the tune seamlessly, and the drums are faint but there enough to add the perfect feel to the song. The way the band comes together on this track is remarkable. Speaking in terms of traditional country, this song is perfect from start to finish, everything an old country fan ever could want from the genre.

I'm posting the video of a live performance because, well honestly Merle kicks ass live, and the instrumental breaks are incredible (ever try finger/sweep picking a tele?). I am also linking up the album version of the song so if you're interested, you can add it to your library.