I never really appreciated the Hag until a few years ago. Funny how time changes our perspective on cultural matters including poets. The Hag is indeed a working man's poet laureate. And, the Kennedy Center recently acknowledged as much when they honored him for his life time achievement and outstanding contribution to American culture.
People familiar with Merle Haggard's music (surely they have heard Working Man's Blues on television recently) know of his honest lyrics and smooth singing style. Few, however, may not realize the Hag, once upon a time, possessed a tremendous gift of impersonation. Listen below as he impersonates the immortals Marty Robbins, Hank Snow, Johnny Cash and Buck Owens. Believable stuff.









