Okie from Muskogee – Merle Haggard & Willie Nelson

Introduction:

“Okie from Muskogee” is a significant song in the history of American country music, written by Merle Haggard and Roy Edward Burris. Released in 1969 on the album Okie from Muskogee, the song exemplifies Haggard’s signature Bakersfield sound, a raw, honky-tonk style that distinguished his music from the polished production typical of Nashville. Set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War and the cultural conflicts of the 1960s, the song’s lyrics reflect the values and pride of small-town America, specifically referencing Muskogee, Oklahoma. Musically, it features classic country instruments like guitar, fiddle, and pedal steel, creating a straightforward yet powerful sound aligned with its theme.

The song became both a rallying cry for and a critique of conservative American values, resonating with audiences who felt alienated by the decade’s counterculture movements, including anti-war protests, drug experimentation, and relaxed social norms. Haggard’s lyrics present a persona proud of traditional American values, rejecting counterculture activities like draft card burning and drug use. Although some listeners perceived it as a satirical take, Haggard later explained it was rooted in a genuine sentiment of pride and respect for American servicemen and traditional values. “Okie from Muskogee” topped the Billboard Country Chart, remaining at No. 1 for four weeks and earning awards from the Country Music Association for both Single and Album of the Year in 1970, cementing Haggard’s status as a country icon.

Culturally, the song stirred debates around patriotism, individual freedom, and the generational divide, making it a timeless reference to American identity amid social upheaval. Its impact on country music is lasting, positioning it as an anthem of American conservatism and pride during a period of rapid change in the United States. Despite shifting perspectives on certain issues over the years, Haggard’s work, particularly “Okie from Muskogee,” remains an enduring symbol of traditional values within country music​.

Video:

Lyrics:

“Okie From Muskogee”

We don’t smoke marijuana in Muskogee;
We don’t take our trips on LSD
We don’t burn no draft cards down on Main Street;
We like livin’ right, and bein’ free.Yes, sir

We don’t make a party out of lovin’;
We like holdin’ hands and pitchin’ woo;
We don’t let our hair grow long and nasty and dirty,
Like the hippies out in San Francisco do.

Everybody sing one time

I’m proud to be an Okie from Muskogee,
A place where even squares can have a ball.
Yes, sir
We still wave Old Glory down at the courthouse,
And white lightning’s still the biggest thrill of all.

Leather boots are still in style for manly footwear;
Beads and Roman sandals won’t be seen.
And football’s still the roughest thing on campus,
And the kids they still respect the college dean.

And I’m proud to be an Okie from Muskogee,
A place where even squares can have a ball.
And we still wave Old Glory down at the courthouse,
And white lightning’s still the biggest thrill of all.

We still wave Old Glory down at the courthouse,
In Muskogee, Oklahoma, USA.