About the song
“It’s All Going to Pot” is a spirited country song crafted by Buddy Cannon, Larry Shell, and Jamey Johnson, brought to life through the iconic voices of Willie Nelson and Merle Haggard, with Johnson making a notable appearance. This track serves as the lead single from their collaborative album *Django & Jimmie*, released on April 20, 2015, a date humorously significant in cannabis culture, often celebrated as “4/20”.
The song’s lyrics playfully riff on the legalization and cultural acceptance of marijuana, blending humor with the trademark outlaw spirit of Nelson and Haggard. Its release was accompanied by a video that captured the duo recording in the studio, adding a personal touch to the song’s narrative and highlighting their effortless chemistry.
Produced by Buddy Cannon, who also had a hand in its creation, the song embodies a laid-back, nostalgic vibe reminiscent of classic outlaw country. It showcases Nelson and Haggard’s enduring ability to blend their distinct styles seamlessly, resonating with fans both old and new.
Charting modestly on the US Hot Country Songs chart, “It’s All Going to Pot” nonetheless solidified its place as a memorable addition to the legacies of both Nelson and Haggard. The song’s reception underscored its appeal not just as a catchy tune but as a testament to the enduring relevance and humor found in their music.
Beyond its musical merits, the song stands as a testament to the enduring friendship and mutual respect between two giants of country music, Nelson and Haggard, whose careers have spanned decades and left an indelible mark on the genre.
“It’s All Going to Pot” not only celebrates a shared camaraderie between two legends but also serves as a reminder of their ability to infuse timeless themes with a contemporary twist, ensuring their music remains as relevant and enjoyable as ever.
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