Remembering Merle Haggard – Monk’s Top 10 Favorite “Hag” Songs

Like so many others, I was saddened to learn today of the passing of country music legend Merle Haggard.

Just the mention of the name "Hag" and many memories flow through my head. Merle, along with Cash, Waylon and Willie, was one of the voices that helped me to understand and embrace country music. His rebellious spirit and honest songwriting turned millions on to what has become known as "outlaw country."

I was lucky enough to have seen Merle once at the Alabama Theater in Birmingham sometime in 2008. I remember being a little put off by his short, hour long set but still completely blown away that I just saw a legend do all of the songs that I've been listening and singing along to for all these years!

My second chance to see this legend came in 2013 when Merle played Tuscaloosa Amphitheater with Willie Nelson and luckily for me, I made friends with Willie's daughter Paula that day and got to hang out backstage. I didn't get to meet "Hag" but did see him from afar, going to his tour bus as I was talking with Paula. I wanted to ask if she could introduce me but never found the courage.

Here's the best I could in coming up with my favorite "Hag" songs.