Introduction

Merle Haggard’s “Kern River Blues,” often referred to as “Haggard’s Final Tune,” holds a special place in the annals of American country music. Released shortly after his passing, the song encapsulates the raw, unfiltered storytelling for which Haggard was renowned. It reflects his deep connection to California and serves as a poignant farewell to his fans. The track stands as a testament to his enduring influence on the genre and his unyielding spirit as a musician and storyteller.

About The Composition

• Title: Haggard’s Final Tune
• Composer: Merle Haggard
• Premiere Date: 2016
• Album/Opus/Collection: Kern River Blues
• Genre: Country

Background

“Kern River Blues” was recorded during Haggard’s final sessions and showcases his deep-rooted connection to his home state of California. The song reflects on his personal experiences and the changes he witnessed over the years. Haggard’s legacy is deeply intertwined with the Bakersfield sound, and this album, released posthumously, serves as a capstone to his storied career.

Musical Style

The musical style of “Kern River Blues” is quintessentially country, featuring the traditional elements of acoustic  guitar, steel guitar, and Haggard’s distinctive vocal delivery. The song’s melody and arrangement are straightforward, allowing the storytelling to take center stage. The bluesy undertone of the composition adds depth to the reflective nature of the lyrics.

Lyrics/Libretto

“Kern River Blues” offers a narrative steeped in nostalgia and reflection. The lyrics convey a sense of longing and loss, as Haggard reminisces about the past and laments the changes time has wrought on his beloved California. The song is a lyrical journey through Haggard’s life and memories, with a particular focus on the Kern River area.

Performance History

As “Kern River Blues” was released posthumously, there have been no live performances by Haggard himself. However, the song has been covered by various artists in tribute concerts and memorial events honoring Haggard’s legacy.

Cultural Impact

The release of “Kern River Blues” shortly after Haggard’s death added a layer of poignancy to its reception. It has been featured in documentaries and retrospectives about Haggard’s life, further cementing his status as a country music icon. The song resonates with fans who appreciate its candidness and connection to Haggard’s personal history.

Legacy

“Haggard’s Final Tune” continues to be celebrated for its authenticity and emotional depth. It serves as a lasting reminder of Haggard’s ability to capture the essence of the human experience through song. The track remains a significant piece of his discography and a touchstone for fans and musicians alike.

Conclusion

“Haggard’s Final Tune” is more than just a song; it is a heartfelt farewell from one of country music’s most revered figures. Its reflective nature invites listeners to explore Haggard’s extensive body of work and appreciate the profound impact he had on the genre. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to his music, this track offers a meaningful glimpse into the legacy of Merle Haggard.

Video

Lyrics

I’m leavin’ town tomorrow Get my breakfast in the sky Well, I’m leavin’ in the early morning Eat my breakfast in the sky Be a donut on a paper

Drink my coffee on the fly

I’m flying out on a jet plane Gonna leave this town behind I’m flying out on a jet plane Gonna leave this town behind They’ve done moved the city limits

Out by the county line

Put my head up to the window Watch the city fade away Put my head close to the window Watch Oildale fade away The blues back in the ‘30s

Just likе the blues today

Therе used to be a river here Runnin’ deep and wide Well, they used to have Kern River Runnin’ deep and wide Then somebody stole the water

Another politician lied

When you closed down all the honky tonks The city died at night When you closed down all the honky tonks The city died at night When it hurt somebody’s feelings

Well, a wrong ain’t never right

Well, I’m leaving town forever Kiss an old boxcar goodbye Well, I’m leaving town forever Kiss an old boxcar goodbye I dug my blues down in the river

But the old Kern River is dry

I‘m leaving town tomorrow.

I’ll get my breakfast in the sky.

Well, I’m leaving in the early morning.

Eat my breakfast in the sky, be a donut on the paper, drink my coffee on the flly.

Cuz I’m flying out on a jet plane going to leave this town behind.

I’m flying out all the jet Pl going to leave this town behind.

They done move the city limit.

I, by the county line, put my head up to the window.

Watch the city fade away.

But my head close to the window, watch World, they’ll fade away now.

The blues back in the 30s and just like the blues today, there used to be a river here running deep and wide.

Well, we used to have River Running deep and wide.

Then somebody stole the water.

Another politician, Li.

When you close down all the Hocky talks, the city died at night.

When you cloth the long, the Hy to the city died at night when it hurts somebody’s feelings.

Well, wrong may never right, Ste.

Well, I’m leaving town forever kissing old Box Carar, goodbye.

Well, I’m leaving town forever kissing old box car goodby.

I dump my blue down in the river, but the O River’s dry.