Introduction
Workin’ Man Blues,” penned and performed by Merle Haggard and The Strangers, stands as a quintessential anthem celebrating the American blue-collar worker. Recorded on May 16, 1969, at Capitol Records’ studios in Hollywood, this track showcases Haggard’s deep connection to the working-class ethos. uDiscover Music
The song was released on June 30, 1969, as the second single from Haggard’s album “A Portrait of Merle Haggard.” It swiftly climbed the charts, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart by mid-August, marking Haggard’s seventh chart-topping single. uDiscover Music+5Wikipedia+5Whiskey Riff+5Whiskey Riff
In “Workin’ Man Blues,” Haggard pays homage to the hardworking individuals who toil daily to provide for their families. The lyrics vividly depict the life of a laborer juggling the demands of a large family, personal sacrifices, and the occasional respite found in local taverns. Lines like “It’s a big job just gettin’ by with nine kids and a wife” and “I drink my beer in a tavern, sing a little bit of these workin’ man’s blues” encapsulate the struggles and modest pleasures of the working class. uDiscover Music+1Wikipedia+1
Musically, the song is a hallmark of Haggard’s signature Bakersfield Sound, characterized by a robust electric guitar rhythm. The recording featured esteemed musicians, including guitarist James Burton and drummer Jim Gordon, whose contributions added depth and authenticity to the track. WikipediauDiscover Music+1Wikipedia+1
The song’s influence extended beyond its initial release, inspiring numerous artists to offer their renditions. Notably, Diamond Rio, along with guitarists Steve Wariner and Lee Roy Parnell—collectively known as Jed Zeppelin—recorded a cover in 1994 for the tribute album “Mama’s Hungry Eyes: A Tribute to Merle Haggard.” This version achieved moderate success, peaking at number 48 on the Billboard country charts. Wikipedia+1Wikipedia+1
Decades after its debut, “Workin’ Man Blues” remains a resonant tribute to laborers, embodying themes of perseverance, pride, and the enduring spirit of the American worker.
For those interested in experiencing this classic, here’s a performance of “Workin’ Man Blues” by Merle Haggard:
Video
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