Merle Haggard wasn’t just one of country music’s most prolific artists. He was also the voice of a culture and a critical groundbreaker in the “cowboy country” movement.
The singer-songwriter passed away today on his 79th birthday, following a career that featured more than 100 Billboard-charting singles and a storytelling voice that gave Haggard a vast cultural appeal.
His words and music affected many, including songwriters, musicians, comedians and actors, many of whom have now come out to remember the musical legend.
Click through to hear from those who both loved and were changed by Merle Haggard.
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