About the song
Merle Haggard’s fourth studio album, “Branded Man,” was released in 1967 on Capitol Records. This album marked a significant turning point in Haggard’s career, as he was on the cusp of country stardom after hitting number one on the country singles chart with the song “I’m A Lonesome Fugitive.” Despite his troubled past, which included time in prison, Haggard’s music career flourished, and he went on to release four straight number one singles in the next two years.
The album “Branded Man” features twelve tracks, seven of which were written or co-written by Haggard himself. The album also includes contributions from session players such as James Burton, Glen Campbell, and Ralph Mooney, as well as The Strangers guitarist Roy Nichols and Bonnie Owens. Owens co-wrote two of the album’s selections with Haggard, while Bakersfield pioneer and Haggard mentor Tommy Collins had a hand in writing four songs.
Producer Ken Nelson took a hands-off approach to producing Haggard, giving him complete responsibility for the album. This allowed Haggard to showcase his unique voice and songwriting skills, resulting in a purity and timelessness that has stood the test of time. The album’s follow-up single, “I Threw Away the Rose,” rose to number 2 and brought Haggard to the attention of George Jones, who would go on to record several of Haggard’s compositions and collaborate with him on two duet albums.
In conclusion, “Branded Man” is a remarkable album that showcases Haggard’s talent as a songwriter and performer. Despite his troubled past, Haggard’s music career flourished, and this album remains a testament to his enduring legacy in the world of country music.
Video
Lyrics
Oh, the love you promised would be mine forever
I would have bet my bottom dollar on
Well, it sure turned out to be a short forever
Just once I turned by back and you were gone
From now on all my friends are gonna be strangers
I’m all through, ever trusting anyone
The only thing I can count on now is my fingers
I was a fool believing in you and now you are gone
It amazes me not knowing any better
Than to think I had a love that would be true
Why I should be taken out and tarred and feathered?
To have let myself be taken in by you
From now on all my friends are gonna be strangers
I’m all through, ever trusting anyone
The only thing I can count on now is my fingers
I was a fool believing in you and now you are gone