Merle Haggard – Going Where the Lonely Go

Introduction:

Going Where the Lonely Go, released in 1982, is a country song that showcases the songwriting and performing talents of the American country music legend Merle Haggard. This melancholic tune became the title track for Haggard’s thirty-fifth studio album of the same name. Haggard collaborated with Lewis Talley and Fuzzy Owen, his longtime mentors, to produce the album during a two-day recording session that also yielded tracks for Haggard’s previous release, Big City.

Going Where the Lonely Go stands out as one of Haggard’s most acclaimed works, though some consider it to be underrated. The song itself reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, solidifying Haggard’s reputation as a country music powerhouse. This success can be attributed to the song’s relatable themes and Haggard’s signature artistic strengths.

Going Where the Lonely Go explores the poignant realities of loneliness and heartbreak. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of those who feel isolated and adrift, yearning for connection. The narrator embarks on a journey, “going where the lonely go”, presumably to find solace and understanding among others who share his pain.

Haggard’s expressive baritone vocals are a perfect vehicle for conveying the emotional weight of the song’s narrative. The melancholic tone is further accentuated by the accompaniment of The Strangers, Haggard’s long-time backing band known for their tight musicianship and nuanced understanding of country music.

Going Where the Lonely Go represents a prime example of Haggard’s ability to connect with his audience through his art. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its ability to capture the universality of human emotions, particularly the experience of loneliness and the search for belonging. This track not only stands as a successful country single but also serves as a reminder of Haggard’s enduring legacy as a country music icon.

Video:

Lyrics:

Rollin’ with the flow
Going where the lonely go
Anywhere the lights are low
Going where the lonely go
Making up things to do
Not running in all directions trying to find you
I’m just rollin’ with the flow
Going where the lonely go
And I’ve got to keep goin’
I can’t lay down
Sleep won’t hardly come
Where there’s loneliness all around
I’ve got to keep goin’
Traveling down this lonesome road
I’d be rollin’ with the flow
Going where the lonely go
I’ve got to keep goin’
I can’t lay down
Sleep won’t hardly come
Where there’s loneliness all around
I’ve got to keep goin’
Traveling down this lonesome road
And I’d be rollin’ with the flow
Going where the lonely go