Merle Haggard’s Charm Shines in “If We Make It Through December”

“If We Make It Through December” is a poignant country song by Merle Haggard, released in 1973 as the lead single from his album of the same name. Written by Merle Haggard, the song explores the struggles of a working-class family during the holiday season.

The lyrics of “If We Make It Through December” tell the story of a man facing financial hardship and the prospect of a bleak Christmas. The narrator expresses the difficulty of providing for his family and the toll it takes on his emotional well-being. Despite the challenges, there is a sense of resilience and hope, as the family looks forward to a better future.

Merle Haggard’s soulful and emotive vocals, combined with the song’s heartfelt lyrics, create a powerful and moving narrative. The arrangement features acoustic guitar, fiddle, and steel guitar, giving the song a classic country sound.

The song struck a chord with audiences, and it became one of Merle Haggard’s signature hits. “If We Make It Through December” topped the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart in 1973 and remains a timeless and enduring classic in the country music genre.

The song’s universal themes of struggle, resilience, and hope resonate with listeners, and it continues to be celebrated as one of Merle Haggard’s most impactful and meaningful compositions. “If We Make It Through December” is often revisited during the holiday season for its poignant portrayal of the human experience.