Merle Haggard

Merle Haggard was among the most influential figures in country music. He created a unique kind of music by infusing traditional elements with the sound of ‘Fender’ guitar and new vocal styles. A native of Bakersfield, Haggard struggled during his childhood with respiratory condition which didn’t allow him to attend school. Also his father’s untimely death made him rebellious. Even as he learnt to play the guitar, his personal life was extremely turbulent and he repeatedly got imprisoned for various petty crimes. Following many insubordination, he had an epiphany after spending time with a death-row inmate following which, he turned around his life, got parole and started focusing on his music career. He achieved fame very soon with his unique and appealing music and churned out a series of number-one tracks. Over the next two decades, he established himself as one of the most influential and commercially successful country musicians, as well as a supporter of the working classes. His influence spread to other artists as well. In spite of his age and health issues, he retained his passion for music and gave live performances for his devoted fans.