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 of the same name. The song became one of Haggard’s signature songs, and it has been covered by many other artists, including Toby Keith, Sammy Hagar, and Jamey Johnson.
The song is a patriotic anthem that celebrates the American fighting spirit. Haggard sings about the pride he feels in his country and its military, and he expresses his willingness to fight for what he believes in. The song’s lyrics are simple but powerful, and they have resonated with listeners for generations.
“The Fightin’ Side of Me” was released during a time of great social and political upheaval in the United States. The Vietnam War was raging, and the country was divided over the issue. Haggard’s song was a defiant statement of patriotism, and it helped to rally support for the war effort.
The song was also a commercial success. It reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, and it stayed on the chart for 14 weeks. The song also crossed over to the pop charts, reaching number 14 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
“The Fightin’ Side of Me” is a classic country song that has stood the test of time. It is a powerful anthem that celebrates patriotism and the American fighting spirit. The song is a reminder of the sacrifices that have been made for our country, and it is a call to action for those who would defend our freedom.
Merle Haggard was one of the most iconic and influential country music singers of all time. He was born in 1937 in Oildale, California, and he began his music career in the early 1960s. Haggard was known for his unique Bakersfield sound, which was characterized by its twangy guitars and hard-driving rhythms. He was also a prolific songwriter, and he wrote many of his own hits, including “Okie from Muskogee,” “Mama Tried,” and “The Fightin’ Side of Me.”
Haggard was a controversial figure throughout his career. He was outspoken about his conservative political views, and he often clashed with the mainstream country music establishment. However, he was also a highly respected artist, and he was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1994.
Haggard died in 2016 at the age of 79. He left behind a legacy of music that will continue to be enjoyed for generations to come.
“The Fightin’ Side of Me” is a powerful and moving song that is sure to stir the emotions of any listener. It is a song about patriotism, love of country, and the willingness to fight for what you believe in. If you are a fan of country music, or if you are simply looking for a song that will inspire you, then I highly recommend listening to “The Fightin’ Side of Me.”