Includes liner notes by Chuck Young.
Personnel: Merle Haggard (vocals, guitar).
Liner Note Author: Chuck Young.
Like its predecessor, Okie from Muskogee, The Fightin' Side of Me was a rush-released live album designed to cash in on the success of his ultra-patriotic hit single of the same name. The Fightin' Side of Me was recorded live in Philadelphia, where Haggard drew a capacity crowd. The songs are a good representation of a typical Haggard concert from the early '70s: A classic hit opens the record ("I Take a Lot of Pride in What I Am"), followed by some selections from his recent records, a couple of songs from Bonnie Owens and the Strangers, a medley of other singers performed as imitations, and, finally, three recent hits -- including "Okie from Muskogee" and "The Fightin' Side of Me" -- to close the show. It's a fun record, and one that gives a better indication of what a typical Haggard concert was like in the early '70s, but it's ultimately a minor entry in his catalog. ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine
It's hard to disagree with the claim that Merle Haggard is one of few truly legendary country singers. This powerful nine-track set, a compilation of some of Haggard's biggest hits (he's had over 35 Number One tracks on the country charts since the late '60s), packs a punch as potent as a hard-luck, hard-drinkin' cowboy with a chip on his shoulder. Haggard synthesizes the traditional themes of trouble in money and in love, trouble with the law, drinking, gambling, and rambling into a complete and utterly convincing take on the country music myth. His superb songwriting and hardboiled, heartfelt delivery keep it fresh.
Haggard's versatility is astonishing. FIGHTIN' veers from good-time barroom tunes to tales of the low road, break-up songs, and heart-string tuggers. Twangy guitars and bouncing doggies-on-the-trail rhythms lend a vintage feel to every cut, and sing-along choruses make them memorable. On the fine "Swinging Doors," high, close harmonies back Haggard's classic country croon. But perhaps nothing screams "MERLE!" as loudly as the title track, a cantankerous, patriotic call to arms. How Haggard manages to remain so staunchly traditional without ever becoming stale is a testament to his unique charisma and enduring appeal as both a songwriter and performer. minimize