Listening To The Wind – Merle Haggard

Introduction:

“Listening to the Wind” by Merle Haggard is a soulful track released in the year 2000. This song was part of Haggard’s critically acclaimed album If I Could Only Fly, which marked a significant moment in his career. After decades of success in country music, this album represented a comeback for Haggard, as it was his first release under the independent label Anti-. If I Could Only Fly was praised for its stripped-down, introspective sound, showcasing Haggard’s talents in a more intimate, raw setting.

The song belongs to the country genre, specifically blending elements of classic and outlaw country. Haggard’s signature style, which combines heartfelt lyrics with his rich, distinctive vocals, is prominent in “Listening to the Wind.” The song has a slow tempo and features simple, yet emotionally resonant chord progressions, emphasizing its reflective nature. Its melancholic tone is further highlighted by Haggard’s use of traditional country instruments such as acoustic guitar, bringing the listener into a space of contemplation and quiet introspection.

While If I Could Only Fly did not dominate the mainstream charts, it was highly regarded by critics and fans alike for its authenticity and emotional depth. The album, including “Listening to the Wind,” solidified Haggard’s standing as a country music legend, proving that even in the later stages of his career, he was capable of producing timeless, moving music.

Video:

Lyrics:

“Listening (To The Wind)”

Listening to the wind
Trying to hear the voice of a distant friend
Wishing you and I were close again
Listening to the windListening to the breeze
As it whispers through the poplar trees
Do you think of me way back then?
Do you listen to the wind?

Listening to the night
Wishing we could hold and squeeze each other tight
I can almost hear the stars so bright
Listening to the night

Listening to the sound
Of a highway through some distant town
I can almost hear the pale moon light
Do you listen to the night?

Listening to my mind
Searching through my thoughts for the perfect life
Using tricks and telepathy at times
Do you listen to your mind?

Listening to the breeze
As it whispers through the poplar trees
Wishing you and I were close again
Just listening to the wind