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Image: Merle's Haggard's-1985 Album Kern River
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Haggard would release 6 more albums under Epic but produce only 1 more #1 hit in 1987 with "Chill Factor". Merle said in his book "My House Of Memories" that he couldn't understand why a top line performer with 37 #1 hits couldn't get any airplay or respect from the label execs. This was the era when Hank Williams Jr., George Strait and Alabama ruled the airwaves essentially phasing out Merle's brand of music. He didn't adapt, and I for one am glad that he didn't! Merle stayed true to his roots, even though he struggled with many future releases. He still plays sold out shows even to this day with his tried and true formula! "Kern River" has a smorgasbord feel with a few new songs, mixed with 3 previously issued tracks along with two 'novelty' tracks. "Big Butter And Egg Man" and "The Old Watermill" don't mesh with the overall somberness of the remaining tracks. We'd also get a remake of "I Wonder Where I'll Find You At Tonight" a song Merle recorded in 1972 for his album "It's Not Love (But It's Not Bad)". Another remake is Red Lane's "There Won't Be Another Now", a song in which Merle released on 1976's "I'm Always On A Mountain When I Fall". "Natural High" would be reissued here from only a year before from 1984's "It's All In The Game". Not sure of the reasoning, however the song did go to #1 in 1985 so maybe 'Mr A@@hole' got his way with this one. :) Three previously issued songs and 2 'novelties' make this one of my least favorites. Be sure to check out Merle Haggard's Official Site! |
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Image: Jason Cross-Life After All-2012
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