Introduction:
Merle Haggard is widely recognized as one of the most influential artists in country music history, and his 1964 single “Sing A Sad Song” stands as a testament to his early impact on the genre. The song was initially released on Tally Records and became Haggard’s first Top 20 hit, setting the stage for his illustrious career. This song falls within the traditional country genre, showcasing Haggard’s roots in the Bakersfield sound—a style of country music that emphasized raw, emotional storytelling, often accompanied by electric instruments and a honky-tonk edge.
“Sing A Sad Song” was penned by Wynn Stewart, another key figure in the Bakersfield sound and a significant influence on Haggard. Stewart’s songwriting prowess is evident in the track’s poignant lyrics and compelling melody. When Haggard recorded the song, he was still a relatively new artist, trying to carve out a space for himself in the country music scene. The production of the song was managed by Fuzzy Owen, a significant producer and musician associated with the Bakersfield sound, and the owner of Tally Records, who believed in Haggard’s potential and helped him gain his initial traction in the music industry.
The musicians who played on “Sing A Sad Song” included some of the most talented session players of the time. Haggard’s early recordings often featured a mix of traditional country instruments like the steel guitar and fiddle, along with electric guitar and bass, giving the track a distinctive sound that resonated with a wide audience. The song’s arrangement is straightforward yet emotionally charged, allowing Haggard’s voice to take center stage. His vocal delivery in “Sing A Sad Song” is filled with the sense of heartache and longing that would become a hallmark of his style.
In terms of achievements, “Sing A Sad Song” was significant for Haggard as it marked his first appearance on the Billboard country charts, peaking at No. 19. This early success helped establish Haggard as a promising new voice in country music. The song’s performance on the charts was a precursor to Haggard’s later success, where he would go on to become a dominant force in the genre throughout the 1960s and beyond. “Sing A Sad Song” not only contributed to Merle Haggard’s growing reputation but also solidified his connection to the Bakersfield sound, distinguishing him from the more polished Nashville country scene of the time.
Video:
Lyrics:
“Sing A Sad Song”
Sing me a song of sadness
And sing it as blue as I feel
If a tear should appear it’s because she’s not here
Sing a sad song and sing it for meShe’s unhappy with me she told me so
I’m unhappy without her
And I still love her so
Oh sing me a song of sadness
Pretend it’s the end of the world
Sing it sweet and sing it low
And then I’ll have to go sing a sad song
And sing it for meSing it sweet and sing it low
And then I’ll have to go sing a sad song
And sing it for me