About the song
“The Fightin’ Side of Me” is a song written and recorded by American country music artist Merle Haggard. It was released in January 1970 as the first single and title track from the album The Fightin’ Side of Me. The song became one of Haggard’s signature tunes and is considered one of the most iconic country songs of all time.
The song is a powerful ballad about patriotism, resilience, and the American spirit. Haggard’s lyrics are both personal and universal, and his strong, unwavering delivery gives the song an air of defiance and determination. The song’s message of standing up for what you believe in, even in the face of adversity, has resonated with listeners for generations.
Haggard was born in Oildale, California, in 1937. He grew up poor and had a troubled childhood, spending time in juvenile detention and prison. However, he also began writing songs while incarcerated, and after his release from prison, he began pursuing a career in music.
Haggard’s first major hit was “Sing Me a Sad Song” in 1968. He quickly became one of the most popular country music artists of the 1970s, and his music often reflected his conservative political views and his strong sense of patriotism.
“The Fightin’ Side of Me” was released at a time of great social and political upheaval in the United States. The Vietnam War was raging, and the country was deeply divided. Haggard’s song spoke to the frustrations and fears of many Americans who felt that the country was losing its way.
The song’s lyrics are a powerful statement of patriotism and national pride. Haggard sings about his love for his country and his willingness to fight for what he believes in. He also acknowledges the country’s flaws, but he ultimately believes that America is still the greatest country in the world.
“The Fightin’ Side of Me” was a major hit upon its release. It reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and stayed there for three weeks. The song also crossed over to the pop charts, reaching number 13 on the Billboard Hot 100.
The song has been covered by many artists, including Toby Keith, Trace Adkins, and Jamey Johnson. It has also been used in several films and television shows, including The Deer Hunter and The Sopranos.
“The Fightin’ Side of Me” is a classic country song that has stood the test of time. It is a powerful and moving ballad about patriotism, resilience, and the American spirit. Haggard’s strong delivery and heartfelt lyrics make the song a true anthem for anyone who loves their country.
Here are some of the song’s key themes:
- Patriotism
- Resilience
- The American spirit
- Standing up for what you believe in
- The importance of family and community
The song’s message is still relevant today. In a time of increasing division and uncertainty, “The Fightin’ Side of Me” is a reminder of the importance of patriotism, resilience, and the American spirit. It is a song that can inspire us to come together and fight for what we believe in.
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Lyrics
“The Fightin’ Side Of Me”
I hear people talkin’ bad,
About the way we have to live here in this country,
Harpin’ on the wars we fight,
An’ gripin’ ’bout the way things oughta be.
An’ I don’t mind ’em switchin’ sides,
An’ standin’ up for things they believe in.
When they’re runnin’ down my country, man,
They’re walkin’ on the fightin’ side of me.Yeah, walkin’ on the fightin’ side of me.
Runnin’ down the way of life,
Our fightin’ men have fought and died to keep.
If you don’t love it, leave it:
Let this song I’m singin’ be a warnin’.
If you’re runnin’ down my country, man,
You’re walkin’ on the fightin’ side of me.I read about some squirrely guy,
Who claims, he just don’t believe in fightin’.
An’ I wonder just how long,
The rest of us can count on bein’ free.
They love our milk an’ honey,
But they preach about some other way of livin’.
When they’re runnin’ down my country, hoss,
They’re walkin’ on the fightin’ side of me.Yeah, walkin’ on the fightin’ side of me.
Runnin’ down the way of life,
Our fightin’ men have fought and died to keep.
If you don’t love it, leave it:
Let this song I’m singin’ be a warnin’.
If you’re runnin’ down my country, man,
You’re walkin’ on the fightin’ side of me.Yeah, walkin’ on the fightin’ side of me.
Runnin’ down the way of life,
Our fightin’ men have fought and died to keep.
If you don’t love it, leave it:
Let this song I’m singin’ be a warnin’.
If you’re runnin’ down my country, man,
You’re walkin’ on the fightin’ side of me.