About the song
“It’s All Going to Pot” is a rollicking country song penned by Buddy Cannon, Larry Shell, and Jamey Johnson, celebrated for its lively delivery and humorous take on contemporary themes. Recorded by country music icons Willie Nelson and Merle Haggard, with a cameo appearance by Johnson, the track serves as the lead single for their collaborative album “Django & Jimmie,” released in 2015.
Released strategically on April 20, 2015—commonly referred to as 4/20, a date synonymous with cannabis culture—the song’s timing added an extra layer of cultural relevance. The choice of release date was not coincidental, aligning humorously with the song’s thematic elements.
The accompanying music video, also unveiled on the same day, captures Nelson and Haggard in their element, performing the song with infectious energy and camaraderie in the studio. The video provides an intimate glimpse into the recording process, showcasing the chemistry between the two country legends and highlighting their enduring musical partnership.
In addition to the music video, a behind-the-scenes footage was released, offering fans insights into the creative process behind “It’s All Going to Pot.” This behind-the-scenes look features candid moments with Nelson, Haggard, and Cannon, providing commentary on the song’s lyrics and capturing the collaborative spirit that defined the recording sessions.
With its witty lyrics, spirited performance, and timely release, “It’s All Going to Pot” not only reaffirmed Nelson and Haggard’s status as stalwarts of country music but also resonated with audiences for its humorous yet thoughtful exploration of contemporary cultural references. The song’s success as a single underscored the enduring popularity and relevance of both artists, cementing their place in the annals of country music history.
Video
Lyrics
Well, now it’s all going to pot
Whether we like it or not
The best I can tell
The world’s gone to hell
And we’re sure gonna miss it a lot
All of the whiskey in Lynchburg, Tennessee
Just couldn’t hit the spot
I got a hundred dollar bill, friend
You keep your pills
‘Cause it’s all going to pot
That cackle-babble-head-in-a-box
Must think I’m dumb as a rock
Readin’ me the news
While I’m kickin’ off my shoes
And it’s scarin’ me outta my socks
That Red Headed Stranger I’m not
But buddy, let me tell you what
If you ask ol’ Will, he’ll say here’s the deal
Friends, it’s all goin’ to pot
Well, it’s all going to pot
Whether we like it or not
Best I can tell
The world’s gone to hell
And we’re all gonna miss it a lot
All the whiskey in Lynchburg, Tennessee
Just couldn’t hit the spot
I got a hundred dollar bill
You can keep your pills, friend
It’s all goin’ to pot
Well, I thought I had found me a girl
Sweetest little thing in the world
But all my jokes went up in smoke
When I caught her makin’ eyes at Merle
He said, a sweet little honey
With her eye on your money
Is gonna take every penny you got
I said she’s never gonna get it
‘Cause I’ve already spent it
Merle, it’s all goin’ to pot
It’s all going to pot
Whether we like it or not
The best I can tell
The world’s gone to hell
And we’re all gonna miss it a lot
All the whiskey in Lynchburg, Tennessee
Just couldn’t hit the spot
Got a hundred dollar bill
You can keep your pills, friend
It’s all going to pot
I got a hundred dollar bill
You can keep your pills, friend
‘Cause it’s all goin’ to pot