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”.