About the song
Merle Haggard and “Holding Things Together”: A Song About Resilience and Love
In the annals of country music, few names resonate with the same level of reverence and admiration as Merle Haggard. A true icon of the genre, Haggard’s music captured the hearts and souls of listeners for decades, with his poignant lyrics and heartfelt melodies painting vivid portraits of the human experience. Among his vast and impressive catalogue of songs, “Holding Things Together” stands out as a particularly poignant and enduring masterpiece.
Released in 1974, “Holding Things Together” was the title track of Haggard’s 30th studio album. The song quickly became a country music staple, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and earning Haggard a Grammy Award nomination for Best Country Vocal Performance, Male. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its powerful message of resilience and love, themes that continue to resonate with listeners across generations.
“Holding Things Together” is a ballad at its core, driven by Haggard’s signature plaintive vocals and the gentle strumming of an acoustic guitar. The lyrics tell the story of a couple struggling to keep their relationship afloat amidst the challenges of life. Despite the hardships they face, they remain committed to each other, finding solace and strength in their shared love.
The song’s opening verse sets the stage, painting a picture of a weary couple struggling under the weight of life’s burdens:
“The day’s been long, the road was rough And I’m feeling kinda blue But I’m holding things together, just for you
The chorus, with its simple yet profound message, serves as the heart of the song:
“Holding things together, that’s what love’s all about When it’s tough to make it, when you’re feeling kinda down Holding things together, love will see us through And I’ll be there for you, baby, just like you’re there for me
As the song progresses, Haggard delves deeper into the couple’s struggles, revealing the cracks in their relationship but also reaffirming their unwavering commitment to each other.
“We’ve had our ups and downs, we’ve had our share of tears But we’ve always found a way to make it through the years
The final verse offers a glimmer of hope, suggesting that even in the darkest of times, love can provide the strength to persevere:
“So when the world seems cold and dark And you’re feeling all alone Just remember that I’m here for you And we’ll make it through, somehow
“Holding Things Together” is a timeless classic that continues to touch the hearts of listeners worldwide. Its message of resilience and love is a powerful reminder that even in the face of adversity, human connection and the strength of love can provide the foundation to overcome any obstacle. Merle Haggard’s heartfelt performance and poignant lyrics capture the essence of these enduring themes, making “Holding Things Together” a true testament to the power of country music.
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Lyrics
“Holding Things Together”
Holding things together ain’t no easy thing to do
When it comes to raisin’ children it’s a job meant for two
Alice please believe me, I can’t go on and on
Holding things together with you goneToday was Angie’s birthday I guess it slipped your mind
I tried twice to call you but no answer either time
But the postman brought a present I mailed some days ago
I just signed it “Love, from mama”, so Angie wouldn’t knowHolding things together ain’t no easy thing to do
When it comes to raisin’ children it’s a job meant for two
Alice please believe me, I can’t go on and on
Holding things together with you goneAlice please believe me, I can’t go on and on
Holding things together with you gone