Introduction:
Merle Haggard, one of the most influential voices in country music, released the song “Heaven Was A Drink Of Wine” in 1979. The song was part of the album Serving 190 Proof, a record that showcased Haggard’s deep introspection and personal struggles, themes that frequently emerged in his songwriting. “Heaven Was A Drink Of Wine” falls within the country genre, but like much of Haggard’s work, it also incorporates elements of blues and honky-tonk, giving it a raw and authentic sound that resonated with a wide audience.
The album Serving 190 Proof was produced by Fuzzy Owen and Bobby Osborne, who both had long-standing associations with Haggard. The production is characterized by its simplicity and focus on storytelling, a hallmark of Haggard’s music. The arrangements are stripped down, allowing Haggard’s vocals and the narrative of the song to take center stage. The song features classic country instrumentation, including acoustic and electric guitars, steel guitar, and subtle percussion, all contributing to the somber and reflective mood of the piece.
“Heaven Was A Drink Of Wine” delves into the themes of alcoholism, heartache, and the fleeting comfort found in alcohol. It paints a vivid picture of a man seeking solace in the bottle, a common subject in country music but handled with the unique depth and nuance that Merle Haggard brought to his work. Haggard was known for drawing on his personal experiences, and this song is no exception. His troubled past, including a stint in prison and struggles with addiction, often informed his songwriting, giving his music an authenticity that few could match.
While “Heaven Was A Drink Of Wine” was not one of Haggard’s most commercially successful songs, it remains a powerful and enduring piece in his catalog. It is a testament to his ability to convey complex emotions and situations in a relatable manner. The song’s raw honesty and straightforward storytelling have made it a favorite among fans who appreciate the more somber and reflective side of country music.
The song contributes to Merle Haggard‘s legacy as a voice for the working class and those grappling with life’s hardships. It’s a reminder of his role as a storyteller who wasn’t afraid to explore the darker aspects of life, making him a beloved figure in the world of country music.
Video:
Lyrics:
“Heaven Was A Drink Of Wine”
That psycho, that psychologist
Asked me about my drinking ways
Every question that he asked me
All related back on to my childhood days
But if the truth was known
I never took the drinking long, long as she was mine
But when she left me I went to hell
Heaven was a drink of wine
That good doctor said, “Look at all
These ink spots and tell me what you see
Could I help it if they all look like
Big ol’ broken hearts to me?”
Ah, my friends in Cane’ll tell you
Ol’ Haggard ain’t a drinking kind
But when she left me I went to hell
And heaven was a drink of wine
Get back, get back
Get on back and leave me alone
Can’t you see that you can’t help
A man that’s just for gone
Hey, good doctor, I’ve got something
You can’t find in my mind
When she left me I went to hell
Heaven was a drink of wine
Hey, good doctor
Heaven was a drink of wine