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Merle Haggard was always known as a man who told a story through his music. He was renowned for his skills as a songwriter and storyteller.
In one track from his 1987 album, Chill Factor, he tells a tale of a love so great that he’s been saved by it …and therefore is “Thanking the Good Lord.”
While Haggard released several singles off of “Chill Factor,” the track “Thanking the God Lord” was not one of them. Therefore, it’s sort of a hidden gem in his catalog that only a few fans know about.
An upbeat and spirited song, “Thanking The Good Lord” features classic country instruments. Sounds of a steel guitar highlight the grateful and sentimental lyrics. Lyrics, which remind listeners to be thankful for the special relationships in their lives, particularly with their faith.
“The Hag” gives his own gratitude to God in the song, singing:
“The pieces are all falling together / The picture is coming in view / When I thought the end was upon me / I found my purpose in you.”
The track was written entirely by Haggard himself. So all of the lyrics reflect his own personal thoughts and feelings. They also share his deep love for the Lord.
Haggard died on his birthday, April 6, in 2016. Today, we remember him through the many impactful songs he left behind, especially “Thanking the Good Lord.” If you’ve never heard the song before, or even if you have, please be sure to give it a listen in the clip below.
This song goes to show why Haggard earned a reputation as one of the best country singer-songwriters of all time. He was one in a million.
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