A Tribute to the Best Damn Fiddle Player in the World cover

A Tribute to the Best Damn Fiddle Player in the World

Merle Haggard · 1970

31 min · 12 tracks · country

A heartfelt homage blending traditional country melodies with lively fiddle arrangements and Haggard's signature storytelling.

Why this album works

This album is significant for its celebration of Western Swing, a genre championed by Bob Wills, thereby influencing a resurgence of interest in this style within country music. It received positive reviews from critics and helped reinforce Haggard's reputation as a custodian of traditional country sounds, while also charting well on the Billboard Country Albums list.
Best for
heartfelt storytelling through melodies steady mid-tempo flow throughout nostalgic vibes with lively fiddles
Context
Released on November 16, 1970, this album marked Merle Haggard's tribute to the legendary Bob Wills during a time when Haggard was solidifying his status in country music. It followed his breakthrough success with 'Mama Tried' and demonstrated his ability to honor historical influences while maintaining commercial appeal.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Brown Skinned Gal (with Narration) 0:50
  • 2 Right or Wrong Standout 2:36
  • 3 Brain Cloudy Blues 3:38
  • 4 Stay a Little Longer 2:48
  • 5 Misery 3:19
  • 6 Time Changes Everything Standout 2:37
  • 7 San Antonio Rose Standout 2:39
  • 8 I Knew the Moment I Lost You 3:00
  • 9 Roly Poly 2:39
  • 10 Old Fashioned Love 2:32
  • 11 Corrine Corrina 2:16
  • 12 Take Me Back to Tulsa 2:38

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata