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Introduction:

“Kern River,” written and performed by Merle Haggard, is a haunting country ballad that captures the sorrowful tale of loss and nostalgia. Released in 1985 as part of the album Kern River, the song stands out in Haggard’s repertoire for its intimate storytelling and reflective tone. The lyrics recount the narrator’s painful memories tied to the Kern River, which flows through California’s San Joaquin Valley. Haggard, a Bakersfield native, was deeply familiar with the region, lending a personal layer to the song’s backdrop.

In “Kern River,” Haggard reflects on a tragedy—losing a loved one to the river’s perilous currents. The song’s mournful melody and evocative lyrics express a longing that resonates with listeners, exploring themes of grief and remembrance. Known for his unvarnished approach to songwriting, Haggard used this track to delve into a narrative that was both relatable and deeply rooted in a specific place, painting a vivid picture of California’s harsh, rugged landscape.

Although it did not top the charts, “Kern River” became a beloved song in Haggard’s catalog, embodying his style of blending personal experience with universal emotions. Interestingly, the song sparked controversy between Haggard and his record label, particularly his label head, Jimmy Bowen, who reportedly disliked the song. The disagreement contributed to Haggard’s departure from his label, leading him to explore more creative freedom later in his career. Today, “Kern River” is celebrated as a classic, showing Haggard’s skill in crafting songs that resonate emotionally and authentically with his audience.

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Lyrics:

“Kern River”

I’ll never swim Kern River again
It was there that I met her
It was there that I lost my best friend
And now I live in the mountains
I drifted up here with the wind
And I may drown in still water
But I’ll never swim Kern River againI grew up in an oil town
But my gusher never came in
And the river was a boundary
Where my darlin’ and I used to swim
One night in the moonlight
The swiftness swept her life away
And now I live on Lake Shasta
And Lake Shasta is where I will stay

There’s the South San Joaquin
Where the seeds of the dust bowl are found
And there’s a place called Mount Whitney
From where the mighty Kern River comes down
Well, it’s not deep nor wide
But it’s a mean piece of water my friend
And I may cross on the highway
But I’ll never swim Kern River again

I’ll never swim Kern River again
It was there I first met her
It was there that I lost my best friend
And now I live in the mountains
I drifted up here with the wind
And I may drown in still water
But I’ll never swim Kern River again

I’ll never swim Kern River again
It was there I first met her
It was there that I lost my best friend
Now I live in the mountains
I drifted up here with the wind
And I may cross on the highway
But I’ll never swim Kern River again