About the song

“Okie from Muskogee”: A Look at Haggard’s Anthem

“Okie from Muskogee” is a classic country song by Merle Haggard, released in 1969. The song, co-written with Haggard’s drummer Roy Edward Burris, became one of his signature tunes.

The Song’s Perspective

The lyrics celebrate a traditional, patriotic way of life in small-town America. The narrator, an “Okie” (slang for someone from Oklahoma), boasts about their love of country, respect for authority, and disapproval of counterculture trends of the late 1960s. Lines like “We don’t smoke marijuana in Muskogee” and “We don’t let our hair grow long and shaggy” were clear statements against the emerging hippie movement.

Haggard’s Background

It’s important to consider Haggard’s background when understanding the song. Haggard himself came from a working-class background and had a rebellious youth, including time spent in prison. Some saw the song as a rejection of his own past and an embrace of more conservative values.

Reception and Legacy

“Okie from Muskogee” was a huge hit, topping the country charts and becoming a cultural touchstone. However, it also generated controversy for its seeming dismissiveness of social change. The song’s legacy is complex, sparking debates about patriotism, social progress, and the changing face of America.

Willie Nelson’s Involvement

While primarily a Haggard song, Willie Nelson has performed “Okie from Muskogee” with him on occasion, including a live version on their collaborative album “Willie, Merle & Ray: Big Hits Live From The Last Of The Breed Tour”.

Video

Lyrics

We don’t smoke marijuana in MuskogeeWe don’t take our trips on LSDWe don’t burn our draft cards down on Main StreetWe like livin’ right, and bein’ free
We don’t make a party out of lovin’We like holdin’ hands and pitchin’ wooWe don’t let our hair grow long and shaggyLike the hippies out in San Francisco do
I’m proud to be an Okie from Muskogee,A place where even squares can have a ballWe still wave Old Glory down at the courthouse,And white lightnin’s still the biggest thrill of all
Leather boots are still in style for manly footwearBeads and Roman sandals won’t be seenFootball’s still the roughest thing on campusAnd the kids here still respect the college dean
WAnd I’m proud to be an Okie from MuskogeeA place where even squares can have a ball.We still wave Old Glory down at the courthouseAnd white lightnin’s still the biggest thrill of all
And white lightnin’s still the biggest thrill of allIn Muskogee, Oklahoma, USA.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *