Merle Haggard – Ramblin’ Fever

Introduction:

Merle Haggard’s “Ramblin’ Fever” is a timeless country music anthem that has captured the hearts of listeners for decades. Composed and released in 1967, this iconic song is part of Haggard’s groundbreaking album, “Sing Me Back Home.” The album, which also includes other country classics like “Mama Tried” and “Okie from Muskogee,” solidified Haggard’s status as a leading figure in the Bakersfield sound, a subgenre of country music known for its honky-tonk roots and outlaw spirit.

“Ramblin’ Fever” is a quintessential example of the Bakersfield sound, featuring Haggard’s distinctive vocals, twangy guitar riffs, and a driving rhythm that evokes the restless spirit of the American West. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man consumed by a wanderlust that keeps him constantly on the move. Haggard’s heartfelt delivery and the song’s infectious melody have made it a beloved staple of country music radio and live performances.

The song’s popularity was further fueled by its inclusion in the 1973 film “White Lightning,” starring Burt Reynolds. The film’s soundtrack, which featured “Ramblin’ Fever,” helped introduce the song to a wider audience and solidified its place in country music history.

“Ramblin’ Fever” has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, and Willie Nelson. These interpretations have not only paid tribute to Haggard’s original version but have also helped to keep the song alive and relevant for new generations of fans.

In addition to its commercial success, “Ramblin’ Fever” has also received critical acclaim. It has been praised for its authenticity, its ability to capture the essence of the American road, and Haggard’s masterful performance. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and its place in the pantheon of country music classics.

Video:

Lyrics:

“Ramblin’ Fever”

My hat don’t hang on the same nail too long
My ears can’t stand to hear the same old song
An’ I don’t leave the highway long enough to bog down in the mud
‘Cos I’ve got ramblin’ fever in my blood

I caught this ramblin’ fever long ago
When I first heard a lonesome whistle blow
If someone said I ever gave a damn, the damn sure told you wrong
I’ve had ramblin’ fever all along

Ramblin’ fever
The kind that can’t be measured by degrees
Ramblin’ fever
There ain’t no kind of cure for my disease

There’s times I’d like to bed down on a sofa
And let some pretty lady rub my back
And spend the early morning drinking coffee
And talkin’ about when I’ll be coming back

‘Cos I don’t let no no woman tie me down
And I’ll never get too old to get around
I want to die along the highway and rot away like some old high-line pole
Rest this ramblin’ fever in my soul

Ramblin’ fever
The kind that can’t be measured by degrees
Ramblin’ fever
There ain’t no kind of cure for my disease, yeah