About the song
“Okie from Muskogee” is a legendary country song performed by Merle Haggard, renowned for its portrayal of small-town American values. The song was co-written by Merle Haggard and Roy Edward Burris and was first released in 1969 as the title track of Haggard’s album “Okie from Muskogee.”
The song became an instant hit upon its release, reaching the top spot on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and staying there for four weeks. Its success was fueled by its relatable lyrics, which celebrated the values and lifestyle of rural America, particularly during a time of cultural and political upheaval.
“Okie from Muskogee” struck a chord with audiences across the country, resonating with those who identified with its portrayal of patriotism, traditionalism, and pride in American values. It became an anthem for many Americans who felt alienated by the counterculture movement of the late 1960s.
Merle Haggard’s impassioned delivery and the song’s catchy melody further contributed to its widespread popularity, cementing its place as one of the defining songs of Haggard’s career and a classic in the country music genre.
Over the years, “Okie from Muskogee” has remained a beloved staple of Merle Haggard’s repertoire and has been covered by numerous artists. Its enduring popularity speaks to its timeless appeal and its status as a cultural touchstone in American music history.
Video
Lyrics
We don’t smoke marijuana in Muskogee
We don’t take our trips on LSD
We don’t burn our draft cards down on Main Street
We like livin’ right, and bein’ free
We don’t make a party out of lovin’
We like holdin’ hands and pitchin’ woo
We don’t let our hair grow long and shaggy
Like the hippies out in San Francisco do
I’m proud to be an Okie from Muskogee,
A place where even squares can have a ball
We still wave Old Glory down at the courthouse,
And white lightnin’s still the biggest thrill of all
Leather boots are still in style for manly footwear
Beads and Roman sandals won’t be seen
Football’s still the roughest thing on campus
And the kids here still respect the college dean
WAnd I’m proud to be an Okie from Muskogee
A place where even squares can have a ball.
We still wave Old Glory down at the courthouse
And white lightnin’s still the biggest thrill of all
And white lightnin’s still the biggest thrill of all
In Muskogee, Oklahoma, USA.