Merle Haggard, a name synonymous with Bakersfield Sound and outlaw country, was a towering figure in American music. Born in 1937, he lived a hardscrabble life that informed his songwriting, giving him an authenticity that resonated deeply with working-class Americans. He accumulated a staggering number of awards throughout his career, including multiple Grammy Awards, Academy of Country Music Awards, and Country Music Association Awards. He topped the country charts countless times with songs like “Okie from Muskogee,” “Mama Tried,” and, of course, “If We Make It Through December.” Haggard’s impact extends beyond accolades; he shaped the sound and narrative of country music, influencing generations of artists.
“If We Make It Through December,” released in 1973, is arguably one of Haggard’s most poignant and enduring songs. It captures the desperation and anxieties of a laid-off factory worker struggling to provide for his family during the Christmas season. The stark lyrics paint a picture of bleak economic circumstances, dreams deferred, and the crushing weight of responsibility. The protagonist’s desire to simply “make it through December” reflects a universal struggle for survival and dignity in the face of hardship.
The song resonated powerfully with audiences upon its release, soaring to the top of the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and crossing over to the pop charts. Its success stemmed from its honest and unflinching portrayal of working-class struggles, a theme rarely explored with such raw emotion in mainstream music at the time. To this day, “If We Make It Through December” remains a timeless reminder of the economic realities faced by many and continues to evoke empathy and understanding from listeners across all walks of life. It’s a testament to Haggard’s ability to connect with the human experience and transform personal hardship into art that resonates through the decades.
