About the song
“It’s All Going to Pot,” a rollicking duet by country music legends Willie Nelson and Merle Haggard, is a lively and humorous take on life’s trials and tribulations, seen through the lens of two old friends enjoying their twilight years. Released in 2015, the song is part of their collaborative album “Django and Jimmie,” a title that pays homage to Django Reinhardt and Jimmie Rodgers, two of their musical heroes.
Written by Buddy Cannon, Jamey Johnson, and Larry Shell, “It’s All Going to Pot” is a playful commentary on the state of the world and the solace found in life’s simple pleasures. The song’s upbeat tempo and cheeky lyrics are brought to life by Nelson and Haggard’s distinctive voices, creating a delightful blend of humor and wisdom. The two country icons share a natural chemistry, their camaraderie shining through in every note and line.
The song didn’t climb high on the mainstream charts but was well-received within the country music community, reaching number 48 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. The album “Django and Jimmie” itself was a commercial success, debuting at number one on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart, marking a significant achievement for both artists.
In “It’s All Going to Pot,” Nelson and Haggard reflect on the changing times and the enduring appeal of old-fashioned fun. The song’s title is a clever double entendre, referring both to the decline of traditional values and the increasing acceptance of marijuana. This theme resonates particularly well with fans who appreciate the rebellious spirit and candid humor of both musicians.
For many older listeners, “It’s All Going to Pot” is more than just a song; it’s a nostalgic reminder of the enduring friendship and musical prowess of Willie Nelson and Merle Haggard. Their collaboration on this track exemplifies their ability to stay relevant and relatable, even as they address contemporary issues with a lighthearted touch.
This duet stands as a testament to the timeless appeal of Nelson and Haggard, showcasing their talent for blending insightful lyrics with engaging melodies. “It’s All Going to Pot” is a fitting celebration of two country music greats who continue to entertain and inspire, reminding us all to take life a little less seriously and find joy in the simple things.
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Lyrics
Well, now it’s all going to pot
Whether we like it or not
The best I can tell
The world’s gone to hell
And we’re sure gonna miss it a lot
All of the whiskey in Lynchburg, Tennessee
Just couldn’t hit the spot
I got a hundred dollar bill, friend
You keep your pills
‘Cause it’s all going to pot
That cackle-babble-head-in-a-box
Must think I’m dumb as a rock
Readin’ me the news
While I’m kickin’ off my shoes
And it’s scarin’ me outta my socks
That Red Headed Stranger I’m not
But buddy, let me tell you what
If you ask ol’ Will, he’ll say here’s the deal
Friends, it’s all goin’ to pot
Well, it’s all going to pot
Whether we like it or not
Best I can tell
The world’s gone to hell
And we’re all gonna miss it a lot
All the whiskey in Lynchburg, Tennessee
Just couldn’t hit the spot
I got a hundred dollar bill
You can keep your pills, friend
It’s all goin’ to pot
Well, I thought I had found me a girl
Sweetest little thing in the world
But all my jokes went up in smoke
When I caught her makin’ eyes at Merle
He said, a sweet little honey
With her eye on your money
Is gonna take every penny you got
I said she’s never gonna get it
‘Cause I’ve already spent it
Merle, it’s all goin’ to pot
It’s all going to pot
Whether we like it or not
The best I can tell
The world’s gone to hell
And we’re all gonna miss it a lot
All the whiskey in Lynchburg, Tennessee
Just couldn’t hit the spot
Got a hundred dollar bill
You can keep your pills, friend
It’s all going to pot
I got a hundred dollar bill
You can keep your pills, friend
‘Cause it’s all goin’ to pot