Big City
Merle Haggard · 1981
39 min · 12 tracks · country
A blend of classic honky-tonk and reflective balladry that encapsulates the struggles of modern life.
Why this album works
'Big City' reached No. 4 on the Billboard Country Albums chart and solidified Haggard's place as a voice for working-class Americans. The title track became particularly influential, resonating with listeners navigating economic hardships during the early '80s, and it further established Haggard as a chronicler of everyday struggles.
- Best for
- steady mid-tempo reflective vibes nostalgic tales of modern life engaging narratives for casual listening
- Context
- By 1981, Merle Haggard was a seasoned country artist with multiple hits to his name, having released over a dozen albums since his debut in the 1960s. 'Big City' came at a time when he was transitioning from mainstream success towards a more introspective approach, reflecting on both personal and societal issues in his songwriting.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Jerry Lee Lewis· Willie Nelson· Hank Williams Jr.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Big City Standout 3:01
- 2 My Favorite Memory Standout 3:06
- 3 Good Old American Guest 2:36
- 4 I Think I'm Gonna Live Forever 2:29
- 5 This Song Is Mine 2:33
- 6 Stop the World and Let Me Off 3:18
- 7 Are the Good Times Really Over (I Wish a Buck Was Still Silver) Standout 4:14
- 8 Texas Fiddle Song 2:19
- 9 You Don't Have Very Far to Go 3:14
- 10 I Always Get Lucky With You 3:31
- 11 Call Me 4:18
- 12 I Won't Give Up My Train 4:43
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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