British guitarist analyses Merle Haggard live in 1978!

Tonight we're going back to 1978 to take a look at Merle performing 'Working Man Blues'!
Original video - • Merle Haggard - Workin...
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[@JohnRodriguesPhotographer]

Your preferred genre may be rock, but you appreciate just about anything. Open minds have the most interesting inspirations.

[@texadan314]

Word.

[@djgreg8198]

Had you heard the old man from Soprano's do rap? He's awesome. 🌹

[@caseynicholson9190]

Country, Rock, Blues..they are cousins.

[@RADKRAZY]

Yup

[@glamgal7106]

@@caseynicholson9190 Yes rock n' roll has many influences, including country and blues. It also originates from other musical styles including gospel, jazz, and R&B. The Rock n' Soul Museum in Memphis, TN is great to visit and learn--it did that for me.

[@branon6565]

I grew up listening to my Dad singing Haggard tunes since my first memories that I can recall, Merle was his favorite artist of all time no matter the genre...he just passed away on Aug 9th of this year, and along with a gun safe chock full of guns, a 4wheel drive Ford F-350 powerstroke, and a 74 Bronco, my Dad left me his vinyl record collection...I've got original Beatles albums, Wilson Pickett albums, and every single record Merle Haggard ever released, all in their original sleeves....thanks of paying some attention to an American country music legend, and for making me hear my Dad singin Haggard tunes again if only in my head....seriously, this was way cool....✌🏻🇺🇸

[@MrDevtun]

Classic golden era country music. In the early 90's when young artists like Garth Brooks were reaching super stardom, most country music stations refused to play anything before 1987. The way old time country artists were brushed aside was just sad. Rock music stations on the other hand worshipped the classic rock acts of the 60s & 70s. Do one on Don Williams when you get a chance in your busy schedule, Fil.

[@JHargis68]

Country music started to die as an art form, at least on country radio, in about 1990 or so because country radio decided they wanted to jack up their ad revenues by targeting the 18-24 demographic.

[@cherylann9781]

I'm from Bakersfield and grew up listening to Buck Owens and Merle Haggard. The Bakersfield Sound became distinctive from the Nashville Sound, because Buck Owens made a point of the thumbing his nose at what he considered to be the "over produced" slick sound that Nashville was putting out at the time. Nashville's arrogance frustrated Bakersfield musicians having been told they could never be successful outside of the hallowed Halls of Nashville. Buck Owens proved differently and aggravated the powers that be in Nashville. Merle came after Buck, but was no less influential. My father worshipped both of them and I groaned and grumbled about having to listen to them when I was a child, but really grew to appreciate their music as I got older.

[@bellesmom238]

YOU CANT BEAT THE BAKERSFIELD SOUND , KINDA LIKE THE MOTOWN OF COUNTRY MUSIC

[@marshaward6790]

Add Dwight Yoakum!

[@falcon5467]

May I suggest "Bakersfield Bound" by Chris Hillman and Herb Pedersen? Great covers of some classic "western" country songs including 2 Buck Owens standards.

[@marshaward6790]

William Harvey 😉 without a doubt!!!

[@RobertLoves]

If you've never checked out The Derailers, their 90s stuff is great. Their influence was 60s surfer music and the Bakersfield sound.

[@davidlayne4147]

Merle was also a great impressionist of other country legends like Buck Owens, Marty Robbins and Johnny Cash. There is a video out there of him doing impressions and they are spot on.

[@prairiebhoy9199]

It's spooky. There's a KZbin of a Glen Campbell show with Merle doing those spot on mimicry of those three....with them on the show too. He was a star at the time....but not as big as he would become so it took balls to do that and they loved it (1972) kzbin.info/www/bejne/nKbLd6KYqdFlh9E

[@kensod6034]

Merle, And his band is so tight.... Merle sings like an angel not an outlaw... Merle makes his telecaster sing... We love Merle... Thanks teach

[@falcon5467]

IMO Merle Haggard was the best country music singer and "Lonesome Fugitive" his greatest song. A truly authentic man.

[@mwgreen9]

If I had teachers in school who were as knowledgeable and enthusiastic as you I'd still be there. Nice video again, Mr. Pegasus.

[@Lockemeister]

In retrospect, I wish I had Fil as a guitar teacher back when I was 16 years old. I probably would have been inspired to pursue a musical career. Of course he probably wasn't even born then. Doh!

[@susieq1565]

@@Lockemeister same here. I've always wanted to be a singer but I'm sure Fil would have seen immediately that I have ZERO talent! 😔lol

[@Lockemeister]

@@susieq1565 Don't sell yourself short Susie Q. I bet you have a wonderful singing voice!

[@susieq1565]

@@Lockemeister I wish! I don't even sing Happy birthday at family gatherings. They won't let me! LOL 🤗

[@lastone783]

That Bakersfield country music just doesn’t get any better than Merle. He was also great with gospel music. Thanks, Fil❣️

[@reconnsupernaturalsyndicat1493]

Merle is an Institution. He wrote about the human condition. Not only from a Southern states type style but for everyone. You can't get any better. This man lived and breathed blue collar, railroad hobo living life hard and not apologizing for it and not having to. Blood, Sweat and Beers. Merle & George Jones are the reasons why I got into old school country. Thx brother! Well done.

[@TexasMagnolia]

ReCONN SUPERNATURAL SYNDICATE Spirit Investigations Well written. Have you dug into Willie from the 1950’s to current? If not, highly recommend.

[@55vermeer]

Webb Pierce!

[@reconnsupernaturalsyndicat1493]

@@55vermeer all the original country singers are the best.

[@reconnsupernaturalsyndicat1493]

@@TexasMagnolia of course.

[@55vermeer]

@@reconnsupernaturalsyndicat1493 From Jimmy Rodgers to George Jones, up to about 1965. Genius

[@suzannerobbins6293]

Hi Fil! Since I am eclectic with my music I love Merle Haggard! Love his voice...he also could cross over from country to mainstream too! I love how you can analyze so many different sounds! One of many reasons I follow you! You are willing to cover them all! Have a great weekend across the pond! ✌️

[@karlpatterson8437]

I love listening him in his last years. His phrasing was so interesting and mature. Seems like it took fifty years for him to perfect those tones and techniques.

[@judyhinton7131]

I saw Merle in person in 1974 and everyone was mesmerized with him sitting in a chair for 2 hours giving one of the best concerts I’ve ever seen and it was just him and his guitar and his voice and personality!!! I have never forgot that night.

[@civlwrbuf]

I still love the guitar intro to his masterpiece song Mama Tried

[@Yesica1993]

YES! One of my favorite songs of all time. (And with the number of songs running about in my head, that's saying a lot!)

[@slothbros7607]

Beautiful song.

[@lawrencetaylor4101]

A great song adopted by the Greatful Dead.

[@TexasMagnolia]

Have you heard Keith Urban’s “Coming Home”? He uses the riff paying honor to the Hag.

[@mevrammcoyoteV8f150]

If anyone has Sirius XM satellite radio..Dwight Yoakam's Bakersfield Beat plays alot of this kind of genre/ music .

[@bjohnson4902]

I love this guy's respect for American music. God bless you sir ✝️🇺🇸🇬🇧

[@shanereno3378]

Thanks a million Fil! I love how you teach us about these great artists from the past. My dad was Merle’s veterinarian, and went to his place to work on his horses many times. He loved Merle’s music, as do I. Some of the comments are right on about the Bakersfield sound. Sadly, Trout’s closed down a few years ago, but we have the experiences and memories. Also, Buck Owens built the Crystal Palace, where many big names have played, and many of Merle’s devoted family and friends play frequently. Thank you for putting the Bakersfield sound out there!

[@magirusdeutzjupiter2234]

Your explaining of music and every thing else is second to none, best I have ever known or heard. I have also got to hear many artists that I have not known, so special thanks. Oh by the way, Merle Haggard is amazing, I am going to listen to a lot more, cheers Fil for the FANTASTIC videos.

[@wingsofpegasus]

Thanks!

[@alhollywood6486]

I really appreciate how you get deep into guitar innovators, regardless of genre!

[@virginia3619]

Thank you for defining terms that are ambivalent, such as "rough around the edges." I find this approach as important to understanding the songs as are your wonderful demos. Also, I grew up in the 70s knowing country music players such as Haggard, Glenn Campbell, and Roy Clark, seeing them on television, but I never really appreciated their musicianship, nor did I particularly like their music. Now I do, and now I gladly listen to their music, understanding its cultural significance as well, and for this I am especially grateful, Fil!

[@brianbrekke9500]

He was a great impressionist too. He could imitate any other country singer of the time. Buck Owns, even Johnny Cash.

[@mynewsong9035]

THANK YOU FOR THIS GREAT REVIEW. In my opinion Merle Haggard is the greatest country Entertainer that ever lived. He wrote some of the greatest songs I have ever heard. What more can I say.

[@sistyugler]

Old saying in the Country music world back then. "Nobody wrote 'em like Hank or sung 'em like Merle". So true. His voice was amazing.

[@shamnet]

The Hag was and is a Legend..

[@brettoberry3586]

Merle Haggard and Waylon Jennings were on auto repeat in my house growing up in the 70's. My dad loved these tunes and I grew to love them.

[@kensod6034]

We can hear the guitar great... The muting lesson is great ... Shapes ... I love your explanations... Super Brotherrrrr...

[@alhollywood6486]

If you're going to get into Outlaw Country, then Gram Parsons, The Jayhawks and Uncle Tupelo are in your future!

[@texadan314]

Memories. Thank you. I graduated HS in 1977. Merle was a favorite and on our Senior Trip someone brought along a Merle Haggard 8-track. We listened to it over and over. I still have a photo of a classmate holding a pool cue like a guitar and another one holding a felt brush like a microphone and I still remember the song was Daddy Frank. I'm 61 years old now.

[@slothbros7607]

great memories :)

[@aloisemason3044]

Country music legend..what a voice and can play his guitar like the best that he is..Meryl Haggard is fantastic on stage..RIP

[@rexvisitor44]

It’s fair to say I’d never have listened to this tune if not for this video. That would have been a shame because it was really good. Great analysis too! I did listen to Jerry Jeff Walker back in the day, kinda had a similar feel to it. Maybe a little less serious, I don’t know. Anyway, thanks as always Fil.

[@tracerloenan8020]

if not for this video - You just pointed out the reason Fil has opened a lot of our minds. I have learned to love a lot of music I would have missed if not for these video's.

[@ericbutton222]

That Roy Nichols was allways spot on with his guitar playing . A very underrated guitar player imho

[@bettym7346]

I can still hear Merle's voice saying, "Pick it, Nichols."

[@valjohnson8297]

So so glad you looked at Merle. The greatest singer-songwriter-musician ever on the planet.

[@jim5746]

I agree !!

[@stevenbrading1437]

Another great pick Fil!

[@feedwinnie]

I love Merle. I really love his voice, his singing voice. There's so much there. He gave 100%right up until the end. I always have had his records right along with my rock and roll stuff growing up. He was a part of my growing up years being from California and my dad was in country band on the side for many years and knew many people in the business. You should find the clip of his sons Ben, Noel and Marty. They each one are different yet sound so very much like him and look like him at different stages in Merle's career. His influence and impact on them is so strong and the respect they have for upholding their father's legacy is built on solid ground. I continue to be amazed by you Fil. Thanks!😉 You can do Merle anytime!

[@jmflyer55]

Merle was such a huge talent. The great heavy voice, and of course that signature Merle Telecaster tone...... And yes, tone IS in the fingers, more so than in the amps and gear.....👍

[@SWarren958]

Fil, this is your Best Video Ever!!!! Thank you for the examples of Mel's playing style!!!! Would you please do the same kind of analysis with Carl Perkins and "Matchbox."

[@martymcgill1312]

Not many years after this Merle got heavy into drugs and his hands shook and voice quivered to the point of pity. I loved Merle and as a songwriter myself I saw him from a different perspective, He was unmatched as an all-around music man. Great analysis Fil.

[@rkkotilley358]

Merle an Leon Russel were both masters of space and time

[@slothbros7607]

Leon was brilliant- I was just watching "The Wrecking Crew" last night. :) He would be a great person for Fil to analyze.

[@lawrencetaylor4101]

@@slothbros7607 Leon was cool before cool was cool. Great suggestion. He is the man that inspired Elton John.

[@williameudy6615]

Great analysis. He did a duet with Jewel decades later on “That’s the Way Love Goes” during the CMA award show. I would love to get your take on that one.

[@musik102]

I would say that Merle was the most talented country music artist of all time. And, if he had had devoted himself to just doing one thing, then WOW! For example, he decided to get in to the fiddle for his Bob Wills album and amazingly reached a pretty good standard. Roy Nichols, of course, said a few times that Merle was better than him on the guitar

[@chipurBillWhite]

You’re a very gifted man, Fil.

[@wingsofpegasus]

Thanks!

[@burnindownthehouse]

Cool guitar solo! Short, straight to the point, and creative. Fits the song perfectly. Sounded nice. I dig it! Thanks for the video!

[@barbaradownie3265]

That is a real toe tapper 🎵🎵🎵🎵🎵🎵🎵🎵🎵🎵🎵🎵

[@kathyjones3940]

It sure is a toe tapper!!

[@hildareynolds231]

Another great one!

[@twikid4134]

OK Fil, I was/am born, raised and still living in Bakersfield. Buck Owens and Merle Haggard are more literally described as the "Oildale" sound. Don't want to give you the long version, but Oildale is Bakersfield, but not. When you address an envelope, 08'ers are listed as Bakersfield, but are Oildale Oakies. Bakersfield Oakies are a little more refined. The long description is hilarious, but the big joke is that the toothbrush got it's name in OIldale because they only have one tooth to brush.🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@suechristenberry1465]

Love it, do some Jaime Johnson

[@jhamptonjr]

Oh man! Saw him on Farm Aid last year and I swear I thought his lead guitarist was channeling Jimi! I turned up the TV for sure! Peace!

[@barbaradownie3265]

Does he sing I'm an Okee from Muskogee?

[@fayedunbar2912]

Yes.

[@kurtisle]

Well yes he did. He died in 2016.

[@barbaradownie3265]

@NippyFan4Life Thank you💖

[@barbaradownie3265]

@@fayedunbar2912 Thank you💖

[@barbaradownie3265]

@@kurtisle Thank you💖

[@karlpatterson8437]

It is really a driving piece the way they play it - so cool. Fil, when I watch you demonstration, I am hearing Don Everly doing "Wake Up Little Suzy" in there.

[@stephenbabin8833]

I always liked Merle's writing and singing but never gave his guitar playing much thought. I was watching an old episode of the Waltons and he did a Cameo part He was playing this jazzy blues thing and it blew me away. That's all

[@VIDSTORAGE]

The Outlaw Era of country music is my fav ,Willie, Waylon,, Merle and I will add Tompall Glasier on that list since he was on The Outlaws album that was the first million selling country album were the kings of it ..Tanya Tucker/ TNT from 78 , very much under the radar now but it needsa revival. 70s country was awesome..

[@JHarder1000]

And do not forget a truly delightful woman who is still with us. One word. Lacy.

[@mikehendershot1898]

You forgot about David Allen Coe and Johnny Paycheck . When you are talking about outlaw country, these guys have to a pat of the discussion.

[@VIDSTORAGE]

@@mikehendershot1898 Naw not forgotten by me but yea I should have given an honourable mention ..

[@VIDSTORAGE]

​@@JHarder1000 Lacy J DALTON

[@learnedhat2587]

Btw Fil - you do a great job and cover a lot of my my favorite artists. It may be because you are a very knowledgeable artist or have a refined ear or a good student of the art form generally-- i think it is primarily because you are are a very likable, affable son of a gun.

[@wingsofpegasus]

😂 thanks!

[@LonskiBig]

Would anyone believe that I had a house in Bakersfield, and worked in Oildale- home of Merle Haggard ??...So, I know the lifestyle...I know the upbringing and atmosphere....Now, that said, can anyone deny the playing expertise of American C/W genre' guitarists and singers ???...How 'bout song- writing ???..."Wish I were down...on some blue bayou...with a bamboo cane...stuck in the sand...Oh, but the road I'm on...no, it don't seem to go there...so I'll just dream and keep on being the way I am...".....I think the dude served 4 years in prison for brawling ....He was short in stature, probably had the "short man's complex"....but somehow pulled himself up by the bootstraps, and learned guitar and became a C/W genre' sensation....Oil field work in that area is rough...not easy...paid good, but was physical....and the guy wasn't the biggest in the world, so he constantly had to prove himself....That style of Country music had it's own flavor, it's own story.....not appreciated by most of the world...

[@user-GodsGirl4ever]

The King of Country. Merle Haggard is the coolest.

[@bigbow62]

Nice beat.... & I can really dance 2 it 😉 ( A shout-out to American Bandstand ) Thank-you Fil.... once again you give us a wide variety of music 😎🎸 Keep the rockin' vids coming & we'll here every night 😆🤘 So glad you started & are sticking with the hands teaching method it really helps when you can show us the different notes & styles in action ! Well done like always Fil ✌😎 & styles

[@mwbright]

Merle and his band sounded a helluva lot like the Grateful Dead, when they did those two albums in like two months, American Beauty and Working Man´s Dead. BTW, that´s a compliment. BTW, Hey, Phil, have you ever checked out Buck Owens? Another Bakersfield sound guy, and he was just as good as they come. I really loved that guy. I think you will too.

[@usermo]

What other instruments can you play fil?

[@wingsofpegasus]

Bass guitar, keys, drums, the band instruments really! I've taught Ukulele in the past but I don't use it in my own music!

[@carmel1631]

I'm late to your party. It was so great to find this video. Merle Haggard is the best of the best. Thank you!

[@Tuzilla]

Nice. Merle is often miscategorized as simply 'Country'. He is so much more than that.

[@dougieh9676]

I was just listening to Merle!!! Love your channel. Thumbs up 👍

[@VaxtorT]

Funny thing is that this professional mistake covering crosses over into many occupations.....even carpentry. Carpenters...even finish carpenters...make mistakes; but they too can can cover these errors so professionally that they are not seen by the untrained eye.

[@Yesica1993]

This is the kind of country music I grew up with. One of the first songs I remember learning was "Mama Tried." "Big City" is my personal theme song. ;) Also, I learned just a year ago that he could do impersonations of other musicians. All my life hearing this man and I had no idea! Check him out sounding exactly like Mary Robbins. Downright eery! kzbin.info/www/bejne/aaKtg6uooq1gptE

[@Brewsky38]

Merle could sing, but most important he really was unrecognized as a great guitar player.

[@1980bwc]

So many people dont realize, that not only did Merle have one of the greatest voices in all of Country music, but he was also an awesome guitarist. I wish he had played more lead guitar in his performances. Roy was amazing, and later on so was Redd and Ben Haggard, but I enjoy hearing Merle play lead from time to time also.

[@gingerduran1592]

Hi Fil, this was an outstanding analysis (as per your usual) and I shared it on Facebook and Twitter. I'm really loving your demonstrations with the guitar. It helps to visualize (thus learn) what we're hearing and seeing. I have said it before and I'll say it again, we all love your warmth and enthusiasm for all genres of music. Merle is a favorite of mine (along with the Bee Gees!!)Would love to see you do an analysis of Marty Stuart. I saw him in concert this past weekend in San Antonio...he brought the theater to its feet! His band is excellent as well. Thanks in advance. :)

[@wingsofpegasus]

Thanks!

[@kathyjones3940]

I know many will disagree with me but Merle, Jonny Cash, Loretta Lynn, Patsy Cline, Hank Williams and Hank Williams jr. etc is what is "Real Country", the singers and groups nowadays are not country. To myself and most people I know call this new so called country is more like a combination of "Pop" and "Bubble Gum" rock. Although there aren't many artists in that genre I do like Brad Paisley, Shania Twain, Clint Black.

[@DTWC]

Waylon Jennings is my favorite

[@debtorres7793]

Great analysis on Merle Haggard. My husband and I saw Hag in concert and he was amazing. Thanks for the review of this music legend.

[@cosmyccowboy]

If you want to do outlaw country check out one of my favorites ... David Alan Coe !

[@mevrammcoyoteV8f150]

'I think I will just stay here and drink' ....poetry...thanks Fil

[@slothbros7607]

Could be holding you tonight Could stop doing wrong or start doing right You don't care about what I think I think I'll just stay here and drink Hey, putting you down, don't square no deal Least you'll know the way I feel Take all the money in the bank I think I'll just stay here and drink Listen close and you can hear That loud jukebox playing in my ear Ain't no woman gon' change the way I think I think I'll just stay here and drink Hurtin' me know don't mean a thing Since love ain't here, don't feel no pain My mind ain't nothing but a total blank I think I'll just stay here and drink :) as a former bartender this song is dear to my jaded heart.

[@mevrammcoyoteV8f150]

@@slothbros7607 Poetry..Cool...thanks

[@slothbros7607]

@@mevrammcoyoteV8f150 definitely my fav "screw it" drinking song or "Back Side of Thirty" which was a my favorite sad drinking song.

[@hennynose2698]

Love your insight! Would you consider analyzing David Gilmour - Echoes live in Gdansk?

[@hennynose2698]

Or even Fat Old Sun? Or One of These Days?

[@jonathanbristow3208]

My hometown. Bakersfield was a little bit of this and a whole lotta that... let me tell you. Them bars in Oildale played nothing but live music just like this. The beer was warm and the women were juiced up and ready to roll. One bar in particular was called Trout's. Good times!

[@mickidoo2]

Merle Haggard said it best, “Perfection is boring.”

[@Nation4]

This is such a great "episode"! Love the explanation of what the guitarists are doing.

[@Calboy31170]

Another great video, Fil! At 2:40 the guitar player in the background of the piano player is Ronnie Reno, who is the son of the famous banjo player Don Reno. Ronnie is a friend of mine and I've worked in the studio with him and shared the stage with him around the US. Check out some of his stuff as well as his dad's band Reno and Smiley.

[@shanereno3378]

Is that family of Rick Reno Stevens?

[@Calboy31170]

I'm not sure about that Shane.

[@dannyc1174]

Yes, absolutely re: Ronnie - not only with his Dad, Red Smiley & the Cut-Ups, but with The Osborne Brothers and, of course, Merle/Strangers here - and then on his own. Ronnie is a great musician: mandolin, guitar, bass, vocals.

[@dannyc1174]

@@Calboy31170 Rick Reno Stevens? Not familiar and don't believe Ronnie is related at all.

[@Lalrinmawii7]

Fil..thanks. love Merle Haggard.. so sad..he is gone. He was an Awesome singer and sooo talented!!..

[@Lockemeister]

Hi Fil, thank you so much for analyzing Merle's live performance. This video made my day! I never knew about the guitar techniques Merle was performing there. I think it's important for people to be a well rounded in musical genres as yourself It's really refreshing that you are comprehensive and have the gift to articulate what's going on.. We live in such a sea of mediocrity today. Your videos are always spot on and get my brain cells working. You're simultaneously a true Renaissance man and a good Joe!

[@edford1693]

I was a fan of Merle's after watching the TV show "Moving On" where he sang and had a #1 hit with the theme song. 👍👍

[@ticktock2383]

The new country music is just rap with a country beat. So sad.

[@victoriarachelle89]

The greatest of all times. He stands alone. Love you hag

[@jamminwithjambo7729]

Merle definitely had that way of connecting. Hey ...keep this up and I'm gonna start calling you.... Country Fil. 😨

[@cosmyccowboy]

Jammin' with Jambo all fil needs is a cowboy hat!

[@bellesmom238]

Merle hated nashville , said he did not like uppity people, he wore his own kinda hat, THANKS FIL

[@LeftLib]

No doubt about it, a class act. I would say Mama Tried is his best song.

[@VideoSaySo]

One of these days I'm going to video some real hillbillies throwing down with white lightnin' and share it with you, Fil...it's not like I ain't party to it often or anything lol! Or you could just watch an episode of Squidbillies...Unknown Hinson does the voice of Early and Jesco White voices his daddy =D

[@scout2469]

That's Merle's wife Bonnie , with the short dark hair. At 12:00

[@abbydubois3112]

Another great lesson Fil! and thanks for you respect and appreciation for Merle and this kind of music! I've loved his music for years

[@Craig_Fussell]

“Okie from Muskogee” was one of he first songs I was taught to play on the guitar by my childhood guitar teacher! Later on, I learned to appreciate just how amazing a musician Merle Haggard was and how fantastic his band was!! ✌🏻🎸🎼

[@JacksonTaylorandTheSinners]

I’m a moron. I just suggested a Merle on your Sinatra video.

[@TheVigilant109]

Fil, many thanks for this wonderful analysis and expert demonstration. This analysis has made my weekend. I've been listening to this song since the 1970s and you have illustrated techniques I haven't noticed before. I always felt Merle was a poet as much as a musician. I would commend to you his collaborations with Willie Nelson and also draw your attention to his son Ben Haggard. Perhaps you could do a video about his song writing in the future.

[@texadan314]

I appreciate your knowledge in the real meaning of Outlaw Country and the Bakersfield sound though I would argue that Merle was not a part of the Bakersfiled sound as Buck Owens was.. I'm not surprised, mind you, but I love your vast range of knowledge that is outside your native genre. You do your homework and that's wonderful. ETA: Okay. the Bakersfield web page lists Merle Haggard along with Buck Owens so I guess I was wrong. I just didn't know he went there.

[@SJKLR99]

Pil, I have request the Charlie Daniels volunteer jam with Skynyrd making they're 87 comeback featured stevie Ray, toy cook, and a bunch of others....on this vid roy Nichols was a van Zant favorite Ronnie would say sounds... like ole Roy!!! He loved that Bakersfield music of merle haggard...

[@randalldickson8841]

Dude. I like your videos and. Enjoy your enthusiasm for the players and bands. I've. Recently started vetting into 5hose Bakersfield cats and you're right. There's a lot going on w5h 5hese sonhs. Wnd all 5jese cars can really play. Had you ever 5hoigjr about Buck Owens and Don Rich?

[@wingsofpegasus]

Yes they're here somewhere!

[@sniffableandirresistble]

Hey Phil's got a pretty good right hand nice!!! 7:30

[@williamlinington9166]

Don"t forget Cajun Country. It is very much a part of the Genre. Great video Fil.

[@edspengeman3407]

FIL,YOU ARE GREAT! I have no clue as to how you have enough time to put together such a complete review on such a regular basis. Have you done anything on Joe Maphis. Thanks for the content. Your coverage tells it all.

[@wingsofpegasus]

Yes he's here somewhere!

[@Diomedene]

Every person who picks up an instrument should watch your comments here about making mistakes, well said. For that matter it applies to life in general.

[@mariorabottini5687]

I always really enjoyed Merles style of country music! His great voice along with his solid guitar playing and accompanied with his brilliant band was just awesome! Really cool Fil! Cheers Mario! 😀🤘👌

[@1111makala]

I always enjoy your videos and learn so much but this was extra special because you showed with your own playing what you were explaining. I hope you will continue to include your own playing in your analysis videos, it adds so much.

[@ZigbertD]

Man, this might be my favorite Merle song, I've watched this video many times, thanks for the analysis of this quintessential Bakersfield/Outlaw song. Sidenote: Merle's lead guitarist for years (a little later than this video) was Redd Volkaert, absolutely one of the best guitarists I've ever heard in country or any other genre. Until very recently, Redd lived here in Austin TX where he played with the band Heybale, kind of an Austin institution. He left not long ago and moved to Virginia, but Heybale has continued and still play regularly (well until COVID shut all the clubs down). They also feature pianist Earl Poole Ball, another absolute country legend. If you don't know him, google his resume and be amazed.

[@usermo]

Wonder if he has ever heard working man by Rush

[@DavidSmith-ss1cg]

There's probably dozens of different versions of a song with the title "Working Man Blues."

[@pamnichols7877]

I need you to teach me how to play the guitar! I have the smile down pat. 😂 love authentic country music. Do you play the steel guitar? Do you drink a pint in the evening? Keys are kicking! Love your analysis!!!!!

[@wingsofpegasus]

Haha no I don't 😂

[@davidkarr5119]

Thank you gig guy, appreciate you & what you do.

[@jaimejaimeChannel]

You might want to analyze Paul Butterfield's ONE MORE HEARTACHE - we had quite a discussion about what is so unique about the rhythm pattern. If you do, I hope you'll let me know here. kzbin.info/www/bejne/fnmwo6ygitOoa5o And as you'll note, the lead guitar really slinks in in a very back-door way, really wonderful.