Merle Haggard, a towering figure in country music, was a singer, songwriter, guitarist, and fiddler whose career spanned decades. Known for his distinctive baritone voice and relatable storytelling, Haggard helped pioneer the Bakersfield sound, a twangier, more working-class alternative to the polished Nashville sound. With a prolific output of over 38 number-one country hits, Haggard earned numerous accolades, including Grammy Awards, Country Music Association Awards, and induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame. He was a storyteller of the everyday struggles and triumphs of the common man, a voice for the working class, and a true American icon.
Among his many celebrated works, “If We Make It Through December,” released in 1973, stands out for its poignant portrayal of hardship and hope. The song resonated deeply with a nation grappling with economic recession and a pervasive sense of uncertainty. It climbed to the top of the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and even crossed over to the pop charts, demonstrating its widespread appeal.
“If We Make It Through December” tells the story of a laid-off factory worker dreading Christmas. He’s struggling to provide for his family and contemplates leaving to find work elsewhere, hoping to give his daughter a brighter future. The song captures the raw emotions of desperation, vulnerability, and the weight of responsibility. It highlights the anxieties and fears of those facing financial hardship, particularly during a time of year associated with joy and abundance.
The song struck a chord with audiences, who empathized with the protagonist’s plight. Listeners found solace in Haggard’s honest portrayal of their own struggles, and the song became an anthem of resilience in the face of adversity. It’s often cited as one of Haggard’s most moving and enduring works, continuing to resonate with listeners today who find its message of hope and perseverance universally applicable. Reviews often praise Haggard’s ability to capture the essence of working-class anxieties with simple yet powerful lyrics and a deeply affecting melody.
