If you are a fan of country music, you have probably heard of Merle Haggard, one of the most influential and prolific singers and songwriters of the genre. Haggard had a remarkable career that spanned six decades and produced dozens of hits, many of which are considered classics today. One of his most memorable songs is “Sing Me Back Home”, a poignant and powerful ballad that tells the story of a condemned prisoner’s last request.
“Sing Me Back Home” was released in November 1967 as the first single and title track from the album of the same name. The song was Merle Haggard and The Strangers third number one hit and spent two weeks at number one and a total of 17 weeks on the Billboard country chart . In 2019, Rolling Stone ranked “Sing Me Back Home” No. 32 on its list of the 40 Saddest Country Songs of All Time.
The song was inspired by Haggard’s own experience of serving time in San Quentin State Prison in California for his role in a botched robbery . There, he befriended two fellow inmates who were executed for their crimes: Caryl Chessman, the “first modern American executed for a non-lethal kidnapping”; and James “Rabbit” Kendrick, who killed a California Highway Patrolman after escaping from prison . Haggard wrote the song from the perspective of an inmate who plays guitar and sings for his fellow prisoners, and is asked by one of them to perform a final song before he is taken to the death chamber. The song evokes the prisoner’s memories of his mother, his childhood, and his faith, as well as his regret for his mistakes.
The song has been covered by many artists over the years, including The Everly Brothers, Joan Baez, The Flying Burrito Brothers, The Byrds, The Grateful Dead, and Alabama. Each version adds something unique to the original, but none can match the authenticity and impact of Haggard’s rendition.
“Sing Me Back Home” is more than just a song; it is a testament to Haggard’s talent, humanity, and legacy. It is a song that touches the hearts of listeners across generations and backgrounds, and reminds us of the power of music to heal, comfort, and inspire.
Oldies Music