Merle Haggard – I’m a Lonesome Fugitive (1966)

About the song

“I’m a Lonesome Fugitive” is a song written by Liz and Casey Anderson and recorded by American country music artist Merle Haggard. It was released in December 1966 as the first single and title track from the album I’m a Lonesome Fugitive. The song was Haggard’s first number one hit on the U.S. country singles chart, spending one week at number one and fifteen weeks on the chart. It also reached number 13 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

The song is a classic tale of a man on the run from the law. The narrator has been framed for a crime he did not commit, and he is now forced to live a life of exile. He is constantly looking over his shoulder, knowing that the law is always on his trail. He is lonely and isolated, and he longs for the day when he can clear his name and return to his old life.

The song is a powerful and moving ballad that captures the pain and loneliness of being a fugitive. Haggard’s vocals are strong and emotive, and he delivers the song with a sense of conviction and urgency. The song’s lyrics are simple but effective, and they paint a vivid picture of the narrator’s plight.

“I’m a Lonesome Fugitive” is a landmark recording in the history of country music. It is a song that has stood the test of time, and it continues to be enjoyed by fans of all ages. The song is a testament to Haggard’s songwriting skills and his ability to connect with his audience. It is a classic country song that is sure to be enjoyed for generations to come.

Here are some of the key elements of the song:

  • The song is a classic tale of a man on the run from the law.
  • The narrator is lonely and isolated, and he longs for the day when he can clear his name and return to his old life.
  • Haggard’s vocals are strong and emotive, and he delivers the song with a sense of conviction and urgency.
  • The song’s lyrics are simple but effective, and they paint a vivid picture of the narrator’s plight.

“I’m a Lonesome Fugitive” is a powerful and moving ballad that captures the pain and loneliness of being a fugitive. It is a landmark recording in the history of country music, and it is a song that is sure to be enjoyed for generations to come.

Video

Lyrics

Down every road there’s always one more cityI’m on the run, the highway is my homeI raised a lot of cane back in my younger daysWhile Mama used to pray my crops would failI’m a hunted fugitive with just two ways:Outrun the law or spend my life in jail
I’d like to settle down but they won’t let meA fugitive must be a rolling stoneDown every road there’s always one more cityI’m on the run, the highway is my home
I’m lonely but I can’t afford the luxuryOf having one I love to come alongShe’d only slow me down and they’d catch up with meFor he who travels fastest goes alone
I’d like to settle down but they won’t let meA fugitive must be a rolling stoneDown every road there’s always one more cityI’m on the run, the highway is my home
I’m on the run, the highway is my home