Country Music Album Anniversaries – 02/05/2025
Celebrating 50 Years: Merle Haggard’s “If We Make It Through December” (Released February 7, 1975)
Merle Haggard’s album “If We Make It Through December” was released on February 7, 1975, marking its 50th anniversary in 2025. This album solidified Haggard’s status as one of country music’s most influential artists and showcased his ability to capture the struggles of working-class Americans.
The album’s title track, released as a single in late 1973, became one of Haggard’s signature songs. It reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and crossed over to the pop charts, peaking at No. 28 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song’s lyrics, which tell the story of a factory worker struggling to provide for his family during the holiday season, resonated deeply with listeners during a time of economic recession and high unemployment rates.
Album Production and Themes
Produced by Ken Nelson and Fuzzy Owen, “If We Make It Through December” featured Haggard’s backing band, The Strangers, providing a classic country sound with touches of Western swing and honky-tonk. The album’s themes centered around the hardships of everyday life, love, and loss, reflecting Haggard’s ability to connect with his audience through relatable storytelling.
Key tracks on the album include:
- “If We Make It Through December”
- “Love and Honor”
- “Better Off When I Was Hungry”
- “I’m An Old Old Man (Tryin’ To Live While I Can)”
Critical Reception and Impact
Critics praised the album for its honest portrayal of working-class life and Haggard’s emotive vocal performances. It further cemented Haggard’s reputation as the “Poet of the Common Man” and demonstrated his ability to blend traditional country sounds with contemporary themes.
The album’s success contributed to Haggard’s growing crossover appeal, attracting listeners beyond the traditional country music audience. It helped establish him as a voice for the disenfranchised and working poor, a role he would continue to embrace throughout his career.
Legacy and Influence
“If We Make It Through December” has endured as a classic country album, with its title track becoming a perennial holiday favorite. The song has been covered by numerous artists across various genres, demonstrating its universal appeal and timeless quality.
The album’s impact on country music was significant, inspiring future generations of artists to address social and economic issues in their songwriting. It exemplified the power of country music to serve as a voice for the common people and tackle relevant societal concerns.
Fifty years after its release, “If We Make It Through December” remains a testament to Merle Haggard’s songwriting prowess and his ability to capture the American experience in his music. Its themes of resilience and hope in the face of adversity continue to resonate with listeners, cementing its place as a landmark album in country music history.