About the song
“Okie from Muskogee,” immortalized by Merle Haggard and The Strangers in 1969, stands as a quintessential anthem of American country music and cultural commentary. Co-written by Haggard and his drummer Roy Edward Burris during the Vietnam War era, the song emerged from a climate of societal division and cultural shifts, reflecting Haggard’s poignant observations and beliefs.
The song’s genesis was deeply rooted in Haggard’s disillusionment with the Vietnam War protests that were sweeping across the United States. Feeling disheartened by what he perceived as disrespect towards the soldiers fighting abroad, Haggard channeled his emotions into a defiant declaration of pride for small-town, Middle American values. As he recounted later, his time in prison had taught him the value of freedom, and he felt a strong sense of camaraderie with those serving in the military, sacrificing their lives for what he believed was a noble cause.
“Okie from Muskogee” resonated not only because of its staunchly conservative stance but also due to its satirical undertones. Haggard himself considered it a playful jab at the prevailing counterculture of the era, symbolized by hippies, drug use, and anti-establishment sentiments. Despite its initial intent as a spoof, the song struck a chord with audiences far beyond its intended scope, capturing the imagination of both mainstream listeners and those it ostensibly mocked.
Charting at number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and peaking at number 41 on the Hot 100, “Okie from Muskogee” quickly became a cultural phenomenon. Its success was not confined to the studio recording; a live version recorded during a Philadelphia concert in 1970 further cemented its popularity, showcasing Haggard’s charismatic stage presence and the enthusiastic response of his audience.
Beyond its chart performance, the song earned Haggard critical acclaim and recognition within the country music industry. It was honored as the Country Music Association Single and Album of the Year in 1970, underscoring its significance and enduring impact on the genre.
Over the decades, “Okie from Muskogee” has transcended its original context, evolving into a timeless emblem of American pride and identity. It continues to be celebrated for its evocative storytelling, candid commentary, and Merle Haggard’s distinctive voice—a testament to its lasting influence on country music and its ability to provoke thought and reflection on the complexities of American society.
Video
Lyrics
We don’t smoke marijuana in Muskogee
We don’t take our trips on LSD
We don’t burn our draft cards down on Main Street
We like livin’ right, and bein’ free
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 shaggy
Like the hippies out in San Francisco do
I’m proud to be an Okie from Muskogee,
A place where even squares can have a ball
We still wave Old Glory down at the courthouse,
And white lightnin’s still the biggest thrill of all
Leather boots are still in style for manly footwear
Beads and Roman sandals won’t be seen
Football’s still the roughest thing on campus
And the kids here still respect the college dean
WAnd I’m proud to be an Okie from Muskogee
A place where even squares can have a ball.
We still wave Old Glory down at the courthouse
And white lightnin’s still the biggest thrill of all
And white lightnin’s still the biggest thrill of all
In Muskogee, Oklahoma, USA.