About the song
Merle Haggard: Kern River – A Song of Memories and Lost Love
Merle Haggard, a country music icon known for his baritone voice and heartfelt lyrics, left an indelible mark on the genre with his timeless songs. Among his vast discography, “Kern River” stands out as a poignant ballad that captures the essence of lost love and cherished memories.
A Song Painted with Memories
Opening with a gentle guitar melody, “Kern River” paints a vivid picture of a man reminiscing about his past by the Kern River. Haggard’s voice, imbued with emotion, weaves a tale of love, loss, and the enduring power of memories.
“I was born down by the Kern River Raised on the banks of the old Kern River I’ve been all over this wide world But I’ll always come back to the Kern River”
A Love Lost by the River’s Edge
The lyrics delve into the singer’s memories of a love once shared by the riverbank. The Kern River becomes a symbol of their love, a place where they shared precious moments and forged a deep connection.
“I met her down by the Kern River I fell in love with her by the Kern River We spent our summers down by the Kern River But I lost her one day by the Kern River”
A River of Regrets
As the song progresses, the singer’s reminiscing turns bittersweet. He laments the loss of his love, the memories now tainted with regret and longing. The Kern River, once a place of joy, now evokes a sense of sorrow and longing.
“I’ve been back to the Kern River I’ve walked down the banks of the old Kern River I’ve sat by the rocks where we used to sit And I’ve cried by the Kern River”
A Haunting Melody that Resonates
“Kern River” is not just a song about lost love; it’s a reflection on the passage of time, the fragility of love, and the enduring power of memories. Haggard’s melancholic vocals and the haunting melody capture the essence of heartache and longing, making the song a timeless classic that resonates with listeners across generations.
Conclusion
“Kern River” stands as a testament to Merle Haggard’s songwriting prowess and his ability to craft songs that evoke deep emotions. It’s a song that lingers long after the last note fades, leaving listeners with a poignant reminder of love lost and memories that endure.
Video
Lyrics
“Kern River”
I’ll never swim Kern River again
It was there that I met her
It was there that I lost my best friend
And now I live in the mountains
I drifted up here with the wind
And I may drown in still water
But I’ll never swim Kern River againI grew up in an oil town
But my gusher never came in
And the river was a boundary
Where my darlin’ and I used to swim
One night in the moonlight
The swiftness swept her life away
And now I live on Lake Shasta
And Lake Shasta is where I will stayThere’s the South San Joaquin
Where the seeds of the dust bowl are found
And there’s a place called Mount Whitney
From where the mighty Kern River comes down
Well, it’s not deep nor wide
But it’s a mean piece of water my friend
And I may cross on the highway
But I’ll never swim Kern River againI’ll never swim Kern River again
It was there I first met her
It was there that I lost my best friend
And now I live in the mountains
I drifted up here with the wind
And I may drown in still water
But I’ll never swim Kern River againI’ll never swim Kern River again
It was there I first met her
It was there that I lost my best friend
Now I live in the mountains
I drifted up here with the wind
And I may cross on the highway
But I’ll never swim Kern River again