Introduction:
“The Fightin’ Side Of Me” is a classic country anthem penned and originally recorded by the legendary Merle Haggard in 1970. Released as the title track of his album of the same name, the song quickly became one of Haggard’s signature tunes and a cornerstone of the Bakersfield sound.
Hailing from the heart of California’s country music scene, Haggard’s raw, authentic style resonated deeply with audiences. With “The Fightin’ Side Of Me,” he captured the spirit of a generation grappling with the social and political turmoil of the late 1960s. The song is a defiant declaration of patriotism and a defense of traditional American values, reflecting the backlash against the anti-war and counterculture movements of the era.
The track is a powerful blend of country and honky-tonk, showcasing Haggard’s distinctive vocal delivery and the tight harmonies of his backing band, The Strangers. The song’s arrangement is characterized by its driving rhythm, steel guitar accents, and a prominent fiddle solo, all of which contribute to its energetic and rousing atmosphere.
While Haggard wrote and recorded the original, the song gained even wider popularity in 2003 when it was re-recorded as a duet with country superstar Toby Keith. Keith’s powerful vocals and contemporary production breathed new life into the classic, introducing it to a younger generation of country music fans. The duet version achieved significant commercial success, reaching the top of the Billboard Country Airplay chart and earning multiple awards and nominations.
“The Fightin’ Side Of Me” remains a beloved and enduring anthem, resonating with listeners who appreciate its unwavering patriotism, nostalgic charm, and timeless message of standing up for what one believes in. The song’s impact on country music is undeniable, and its legacy continues to inspire artists and fans alike.
Video:
Lyrics:
“The Fightin’ Side Of Me”
I hear people talkin’ bad,
About the way we have to live here in this country,
Harpin’ on the wars we fight,
An’ gripin’ ’bout the way things oughta be.
An’ I don’t mind ’em switchin’ sides,
An’ standin’ up for things they believe in.
When they’re runnin’ down my country, man,
They’re walkin’ on the fightin’ side of me.Yeah, walkin’ on the fightin’ side of me.
Runnin’ down the way of life,
Our fightin’ men have fought and died to keep.
If you don’t love it, leave it:
Let this song I’m singin’ be a warnin’.
If you’re runnin’ down my country, man,
You’re walkin’ on the fightin’ side of me.I read about some squirrely guy,
Who claims, he just don’t believe in fightin’.
An’ I wonder just how long,
The rest of us can count on bein’ free.
They love our milk an’ honey,
But they preach about some other way of livin’.
When they’re runnin’ down my country, hoss,
They’re walkin’ on the fightin’ side of me.Yeah, walkin’ on the fightin’ side of me.
Runnin’ down the way of life,
Our fightin’ men have fought and died to keep.
If you don’t love it, leave it:
Let this song I’m singin’ be a warnin’.
If you’re runnin’ down my country, man,
You’re walkin’ on the fightin’ side of me.Yeah, walkin’ on the fightin’ side of me.
Runnin’ down the way of life,
Our fightin’ men have fought and died to keep.
If you don’t love it, leave it:
Let this song I’m singin’ be a warnin’.
If you’re runnin’ down my country, man,
You’re walkin’ on the fightin’ side of me.