Legislature honors country legend Merle Haggard

AUSTIN (KXAN) - State Rep. Doug Miller filed House Resolution 643 honoring country music singer Merle Haggard for his “lasting mark on American music,” and will present a copy of the resolution to the legendary musician Monday.

This isn’t the first time Miller has mixed music with politics. Last session the former New Braunfels mayor filed a bill to make Western Swing the official state music. The bill touches on Haggard’s life hardships and contributions to Texas’ musical heritage.

Haggard, known as “The Hag” by his fans, was born in Oildale, Calif., in 1937. His father died in his youth, setting him on a troubled path in which he spent time in a number of juvenile detention centers.

Eventually he ended up in San Quentin State Prison in 1957, and was inspired to turn his life around and join the prison band after seeing Johnny Cash perform for the inmates.

In 1960, Haggard began to tour with his band, the Strangers, and landed their first number one hit with “I’m a Longsome Fugitive,” in 1966.

Relying on his own life experiences and daily observations, Haggard went on to record nearly 40 chart-topping songs, including classics such as “Mama Tried,” describing a son’s guilt for ending up in prison.

Teaming up with Texan legend-in-the-making, Willie Nelson, Haggard is also known for the 1983 hit, “Pancho and Lefty.”

Haggard has won three Grammys and several Academy of Country Music awards. He was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1994.

Miller’s bill highlights Haggard’s ability to give voice to “the struggles, demons, and dreams of everyday people, and his extraordinary gifts as a writer and performer.”

The resolution was introduced on Feb. 26 and passed the House on March 13.