Songs for the Mama That Tried cover

Songs for the Mama That Tried

Merle Haggard · 1981

30 min · 10 tracks · country

A heartfelt collection of gospel-infused country ballads celebrating faith and resilience in everyday life.

Why this album works

This album is significant for its exploration of religious themes within the country genre, appealing to both secular and devout audiences. It contributed to Haggard's legacy as a storyteller who infused personal experiences with universal messages, enhancing his influence on subsequent artists in both country and gospel music.
Best for
steady reflective listening experience heartfelt moments of introspection short tracks for quick engagement
Context
By 1981, Merle Haggard was solidifying his status as a country music icon, following his commercial peak in the late '70s. 'Songs for the Mama That Tried' arrived as a follow-up to his successful albums like 'A Portrait of Merle Haggard' (1971) and showcased his deepening engagement with spiritual themes.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 What A Friend We Have In Jesus 2:36
  • 2 Swing Low, Sweet Chariot 3:28
  • 3 Suppertime 2:43
  • 4 Why Me Standout 3:11
  • 5 When God Comes And Gathers His Jewels 2:57
  • 6 He Walks With Me 2:21
  • 7 Where No One Stands Alone 3:00
  • 8 The Old Rugged Cross Standout 4:03
  • 9 Softly And Tenderly 3:13
  • 10 One Day At A Time Standout 3:17

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata