Kern River Blues: Haggard's Final Tune

Merle Haggard spent the last few months of his life battling the pneumonia that finally felled him. During those months, he spent a significant amount of time in the hospital, which caused him to cancel a couple of tours. When it was suggested that he not go back on the road and rest at home, he did…while also walking across the road to his studio to record a few nuggets he’d been writing while in the hospital. His final song is titled “Kern River Blues,” which is about his memories of leaving Bakersfield in the late ‘70s.

[keithelcomb]

My dear little faithful doggie Meggie has just been put to sleep. Merle’s wonderful song gives me some comfort. Bless you Merle.

[tonys]

Generations will listen to merle music

[taniastewart]

2024 and still listening to Merle the Hag

[tony]

This is the perfect way for Merle to say Goodbye. What a song. Once heard, never forgotten. RIP my Friend.

[jerryschlegel]

Merle left his mark in country music. I miss him all time.

[trufflehound]

No matter if it’s 1966 or 2016 or 7016 … Merle Haggard is the greatest that ever was — for all time, now and forever.

[bettycooper]

I think this was his good bye to all of us who loved him and his music.He was one of the greatest!!!

[bonniejulien]

There will never be another Merle Haggard

[mikeblack]

This sounds like a farewell to his fans.
Mere gets no better.
Love Ya Merle

[joehagen]

Merle. His songs were were written from his personal life’s experience
His voice unique. Once you heard him strike chords on his guitar. No other guitar sounded like it. To me. The greatest country/blues /jaz musician to pull it of with perfection. R I. P. Merle. The. Hag. Your irreplaceable

[thenewworld]

I’ll never forget where I was when I learned he had passed. High school 2016. Sat down and just about cried.

[robertrohrs]

Merle was an American treasure. Never will be another.

[pascaldrake]

There will never be anyone like him. Thank you Merle for making me love country music and you. The world won’t be the same without you in it. RIP.

[darrellmcdonald]

My uncle Bill introduced me to Merles music in '79. I was 14. I am 57 and Still listen. Thanks Bill. Thanks Merle

[louistait]

Haunting it may be, sung by the master of Country music, it's okay we can live with this song.

[janetfarris]

I can't count how many times I've played this awesome song. I will never lose my love for Merle Haggard

[melissamelodies]

God made a incredible story teller with a golden set of vocal chords. I will always listen to his music and feel every note he sang. Rest In Peace sir. You will never be forgotten. Ever…..😘🙏🎶🎤❤️💫

[DebbieCampbell-bq]

A window into the soul of one of the greatest country story tellers thank you Merle for getting me through some of the toughest days of my life rest easy you are terribly missed

[bonnieandersen]

Seems like he was preparing to have breakfast in the sky as he says in this song. He must have sensed the end was nearing. I miss Merle, It's so hard to believe he's gone. His music and memories will live on forever.

[mikemurray]

This song was recorded at his home on February 9, 2016 He passed 57 days later on April 6, 2016 God rest his soul.