When it comes to the greats of country music, Merle Haggard stands tall among the legends. Dubbed “the Poet of the Common Man,” Merle’s songs captured everyday people’s struggles, triumphs, and stories. Over his five-decade career, he built an unparalleled legacy: 70 albums, 38 No. 1 hits, and an influence that stretched far beyond country music. From the Byrds and the Grateful Dead to Elvis Costello, artists across genres found inspiration in his work.
But no one felt his impact more deeply than his children. Five of his seven kids inherited his musical talents, continuing the family’s storytelling tradition through song. In a heartfelt tribute to their father, Ben and Noel Haggard took to the stage in 2016 to perform some of his most iconic hits. Their performance wasn’t just a tribute—it was a reminder of the enduring power of Merle’s music.
A Family Legacy Comes Alive
On September 25, 2016, Ben Haggard shared a touching video of himself and his brother Noel performing together. It wasn’t just a performance but a glimpse into a family carrying the torch of their father’s artistry. The brothers began their set with two classics, “The Runnin’ Kind” and “I’m A Lonesome Fugitive,” deeply woven into Merle’s storied career.
“The Runnin’ Kind” is a song that encapsulates the restless spirit that often defines Merle’s characters. Holler Country highlights that the 1978 release from A Working Man Can’t Get Nowhere Today reached No. 12 on the U.S. Country Singles chart and saw even greater success in Canada. It’s a song about yearning for freedom and the open road—a theme Merle knew all too well.
Next, the brothers tackled “I’m A Lonesome Fugitive,” the 1967 hit that made Merle a star. Originally penned by Liz and Casey Anderson, the song was eerily autobiographical, reflecting Merle’s time in prison—a detail the songwriters didn’t even know when they wrote. This track marked the beginning of Merle’s rise to country music royalty, becoming his first major hit and cementing his place in the genre.
Hearing Ben and Noel sing these songs was like stepping back in time. Noel’s voice carried the rugged authenticity of his father’s. At the same time, Ben’s impeccable guitar work and smooth vocals added a fresh layer to the classics. Together, they delivered a performance brimming with emotion and respect for their father’s work.
A Solo Moment and a Timeless Song
After their duet, Noel stepped aside, spotlighting Ben for a solo performance of “It’s All In The Movies.” Released in 1975, the song became Merle’s 22nd No. 1 hit and spent an impressive 13 weeks on the country charts. A tale of heartbreak and reflection, the song captures the cinematic quality of Merle’s songwriting—a way of making life’s moments feel more significant than they are.
Ben’s performance was a masterclass in understated emotion. As the youngest of Merle’s children and the lead guitarist for his father’s band, Ben had grown up steeped in the music. His rendition of “It’s All In The Movies” was filled with reverence, showcasing his technical skill and the heart he pours into every note.
A Tribute That Resonates Beyond Bloodlines
The Haggard family’s tribute wasn’t just a moment for them—it was a gift to country music fans everywhere. Merle Haggard’s songs were always about connection: between the singer and the listener, the story and the soul. Ben and Noel’s performance reminded everyone that his music isn’t just part of the past—it lives on, carried forward by a family that understands the weight of his legacy.
With their harmonies and heartfelt delivery, Ben and Noel proved that Merle’s music remains as powerful as ever. It’s not just a family legacy—it’s a cornerstone of country music itself. Watching the Haggard brothers perform is more than a trip down memory lane; it’s a reminder that the Poet of the Common Man still speaks to us through his songs and the children carrying his voice forward.
