About the song
Merle Haggard, born in 1937 in Oildale, California, is celebrated as one of the most influential figures in country music history. With a career spanning decades, he has left an indelible mark on the genre with his soulful lyrics and authentic storytelling. “Call Me” is featured on his album “Keep Movin’ On,” released in 1975 under Capitol Records.
The song “Call Me” showcases Merle Haggard’s ability to evoke deep emotions through his music. Written by Sonny Throckmorton, it peaked at number three on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, demonstrating its popularity among listeners at the time. The song’s arrangement blends traditional country instrumentation with Haggard’s trademark vocals, creating a poignant melody that resonates with listeners.
Lyrically, “Call Me” explores a plea for reconciliation and understanding in a strained relationship. Haggard’s delivery is both sincere and introspective, drawing listeners into the emotional landscape of the song. His ability to convey vulnerability and strength simultaneously is a testament to his artistry and depth as a musician.
Throughout his career, Merle Haggard has garnered numerous accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards and induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame. His music continues to inspire generations of artists and fans alike, cementing his legacy as a true icon of country music.
“Call Me” stands as a testament to Merle Haggard’s enduring talent and ability to connect with audiences through his music. Whether you’re revisiting this classic or discovering it for the first time, the sincerity and soulfulness of “Call Me” remain timeless, making it a quintessential part of Merle Haggard’s remarkable repertoire.
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Lyrics
… Well, it was all
That I could do to keep from crying’
Sometimes it seemed so useless to remain
But you don’t have to call me darlin’, darlin’
You never even call me by my name
… You don’t have to call me Waylon Jennings
And you don’t have to call me Charlie pride
And you don’t have to call me Merle Haggard anymore
Even though you’re on my fighting’ side
… And I’ll hang around as long as you will let me
And I never minded standing’ in the rain
But you don’t have to call me darlin’, darlin’
You never even called me by my name
… Well, I’ve heard my name
A few times in your phone book (hello, hello)
And I’ve seen it on signs where I’ve played
But the only time I know
I’ll hear “David Allan Coe”
Is when Jesus has his final judgment day
… And I’ll hang around as long as you will let me
And I never minded standing’ in the rain
But you don’t have to call me darlin’, darlin’
You never even called me by my name
… Well, a friend of mine named Steve Goodman wrote that song
And he told me it was the perfect country & western song
I wrote him back a letter and I told him it was
Not the perfect country & western song because he hadn’t said anything at all about mama,
Or trains,
Or trucks,
Or prison,
Or getting’ drunk
Well he sat down and wrote another verse to the song
And he sent it to me,
And after reading it,
I realized that my friend had written the perfect
Country & western song
And I felt obliged to include it on this album
The last verse goes like this here:
… Well, I was drunk the day my mom got out of prison
And I went to pick her up in the rain
But before I could get to the station in my pickup truck
She got run ned over by a damned old train
… And I’ll hang around as long as you will let me
And I never minded standing’ in the rain
No, a’ you don’t have to call me darlin’, darlin’
You never even call me
Well I wonder why you don’t call me
Why don’t you ever call me by my name