Merle Haggard, a name synonymous with Bakersfield Sound and a towering figure in country music history, released “If We Make It Through December” in 1973. Haggard, born in 1937, lived a life that deeply informed his songwriting. A stint in prison for burglary provided him with firsthand experience of hardship and disillusionment, themes that would resonate throughout his prolific career. He earned numerous accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards, Country Music Association Awards, and induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame. He consistently topped the Billboard country charts with classics like “Okie from Muskogee,” “Mama Tried,” and “The Fightin’ Side of Me,” establishing himself as a voice for the working class.
“If We Make It Through December” stands as one of Haggard’s most poignant and enduring songs. Released during a period of economic hardship in the United States, particularly the oil crisis, the song tells the story of a laid-off factory worker struggling to provide a decent Christmas for his daughter. He dreams of escaping the blue-collar grind of the factory and finding a better life in sunny California. The song’s raw emotion and unflinching portrayal of economic desperation struck a deep chord with audiences.
Unlike some of Haggard’s earlier, more overtly patriotic songs, “If We Make It Through December” transcended political boundaries, resonating with people from all walks of life who had experienced financial hardship. The song reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and even crossed over into the pop charts, further solidifying its widespread appeal. Audience reaction was overwhelmingly positive; many listeners identified with the protagonist’s struggles and praised Haggard for his honest and empathetic portrayal of the American working class experience. It continues to be a beloved and frequently covered Christmas song, a testament to its enduring message of hope and resilience in the face of adversity.
