“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Have you ever had that surreal moment when you meet someone you’ve idolized forever? That’s exactly what Mo Pitney captures in his touching song “I Met Merle Haggard Today.” This track isn’t just another country tune—it’s a genuine story of admiration, respect, and the passing of the torch between generations of country music.
When I first heard this song, it stopped me in my tracks. There’s something profoundly authentic about the way Pitney narrates his encounter with the legendary Merle Haggard. His voice carries that mix of nervousness and reverence you’d feel meeting someone whose music shaped your very understanding of the genre. The production is beautifully understated, letting the story and emotion take center stage—exactly as traditional country should.
What makes this song special is how it bridges country music’s past and present. Mo Pitney represents a newer generation of artists who deeply respect the traditions laid down by icons like Haggard. The song details not just meeting a hero, but understanding the weight of their legacy and contribution to music. It’s about those moments that remind us why we fell in love with country music in the first place—its honesty, storytelling, and emotional authenticity.
There’s a bittersweet quality to the song now, following Haggard’s passing in 2016. What was once a celebration of meeting a living legend has transformed into a poignant tribute to Haggard’s enduring influence. Each time the chorus comes around, you can’t help but feel the gravity of what Merle meant to artists like Pitney and countless fans worldwide.
The song also showcases Pitney’s gift for storytelling. He doesn’t just tell us he met Merle—he brings us along for the entire experience, from the anticipation to the conversation to the reflection afterward. This narrative approach harkens back to country’s strongest tradition: turning personal experiences into universal emotions we can all connect with.
For newer country fans, this song serves as a perfect introduction to both artists—Pitney’s reverent traditional style and, through his eyes, the towering importance of Merle Haggard. For longtime listeners, it’s a reminder of why certain artists become legends and how their influence ripples through generations.
Next time you’re looking for something that captures the heart and soul of country music, give “I Met Merle Haggard Today” a listen. It might just remind you of your own musical heroes and the moments that defined your love for music.
Video
Lyrics
I spent the morning pouring concrete
I had a good hot plate of chicken for lunch
Filled the tank cause it was empty
Had a few errands to run
And I know what your thinkin
That sounds a little bit mundane
But just wait… I met Merle Haggard Today
My buddy called and said Haggard’s in town to tape the Marty Stuart show
So meet me at the back door down in NorthStar studios
2/4 2013 4:45 was the time and date
Hey… I met Merle Haggard today
Oh what was I thinking
Should have took a picture with my phone
Or a least record him singing ‘pleasure to meet you Mo’
But it was over in a second
Then he strolled down to the stage
But it’s OK… Cause I met Merle Haggard today
At least I can say… I met Merle Haggard today