Merle Haggard and “I Take a Lot of Pride in What I Am”

In 1968, Merle Haggard released the song “I Take a Lot of Pride in What I Am,” which quickly became a signature anthem for the working class. The song is a powerful ode to self-respect and resilience in the face of adversity.

Haggard, who was born in 1937 in Oildale, California, grew up in poverty and experienced a number of hardships throughout his life. He began writing songs while serving time in prison for burglary, and after his release, he embarked on a successful career in country music.

“I Take a Lot of Pride in What I Am” is a personal song for Haggard, and it reflects his own struggles and triumphs. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a man who is proud of his hard work and accomplishments, despite the fact that he doesn’t have a lot of money or material possessions.

The song begins with Haggard singing about his humble beginnings:

“I was born in a boxcar, But I’m proud to be an Okie from Muskogee.”

These lines establish the song’s setting and introduce the narrator’s character. The narrator is a proud Oklahoman who comes from a working-class background. He is not ashamed of his humble beginnings, and he takes pride in his hard work and accomplishments.

The song’s chorus is a powerful statement of self-affirmation:

“I take a lot of pride in what I am, And I don’t mind who knows it. I’m not ashamed to say, I’m an Okie from Muskogee.”

The chorus repeats throughout the song, and it serves as a reminder of the narrator’s strength and resilience. He is proud of who he is, and he is not afraid to stand up for what he believes in.

The song’s verses explore the narrator’s values and beliefs. He is a hard worker who believes in traditional American values such as patriotism, family, and hard work. He is also a strong individual who is not afraid to stand up for what he believes in, even if it means going against the grain.

“I Take a Lot of Pride in What I Am” is a powerful and moving song that celebrates the working class. It is a song about self-respect, resilience, and the importance of staying true to oneself. The song is a classic of country music, and it continues to resonate with listeners today.

Here are some additional details about the song and its significance:

• The song was released in 1968, during a time of great social and political upheaval in the United States. The Vietnam War was raging, and the civil rights movement was gaining momentum. In this context, the song’s message of self-pride and resilience was particularly powerful.
• The song was a commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. It also crossed over to the pop charts, reaching number 46 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
• The song has been covered by many artists, including Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, and Toby Keith. It has also been featured in a number of films and television shows, including “Thelma and Louise” and “The Simpsons.”
• “I Take a Lot of Pride in What I Am” is considered to be one of the most important songs in country music history. It is a powerful anthem for the working class, and it continues to resonate with listeners today.

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