In the heartwarming tale behind Merle Haggard‘s iconic song “That’s the Way Love Goes,” we find a journey of love, heartache, and musical exploration. Haggard’s love for the song goes way back, as he was captivated by Lefty Frizzell’s version from the very first moment he heard it. In the mid-1970s, during his time with Capitol Records, he attempted to record it, but the outcome fell short of his expectations. That early version, found in the box set Hag: The Studio Recordings 1969-1976, carried a more carefree and whimsical vibe, quite different from the poignant rendition he would later create in 1983.
Interestingly, “That’s the Way Love Goes” soared to the top of the Billboard country singles chart, much like another hit he co-wrote with his wife Leona Williams, titled “Someday When Things Are Good.” Ironically, the song’s prophecy unfolded that same year as the couple parted ways in divorce. Leona Williams, who replaced Haggard’s previous wife Bonnie Owens in the Strangers, was a talented songwriter herself, responsible for Haggard’s recent success with “You Take Me For Granted.” However, her creative aspirations sometimes clashed with her husband’s vision, causing tension and misunderstandings in their relationship.
Merle Haggard openly reflected on this phase in his life in his autobiography Sing Me Back Home, where he admitted his resentment when Leona tried to offer suggestions regarding his music. The media’s bias towards Bonnie and the criticism directed at Leona for allegedly breaking up their “happy home” only added fuel to the fire. The divorce marked a turning point for Haggard, as he found himself lost in the depths of alcohol and drugs throughout the decade, despite still enjoying #1 hits.
“That’s The Way Love Goes” became the third hit LP for Epic in just two years, further solidifying Haggard’s prowess as an artist. His songs resonated deeply with his audience, including fellow musicians like John Prine, who admired Haggard’s songwriting during this period.
The album, “That’s The Way Love Goes,” embraces a more laid-back vibe than Haggard’s later works, showcasing his emotive vocal range on heartfelt ballads like “What Am I Gonna Do (With the Rest of My Life),” reaching number 3 on the charts. The emotional turmoil with Leona is evident in the lilting bitterness of “If You Hated Me.” Additionally, the album ventures into the bright pop sound that was gaining popularity in country music during the 1980s, with tracks like “I’m Carrying Fire” and the jazzy “The Last Boat of the Day.” As the album comes to a close, “I Think I’ll Stay” exudes an after-hours bluesy atmosphere, as Haggard soulfully croons, “Think I’ll stay around till I’m sick of home sweet home…” Ultimately, the album peaked at an impressive number 8 on the Billboard country albums chart.
In summary, “That’s the Way Love Goes” is not just a song; it’s an emotional journey through Merle Haggard’s personal struggles and triumphs. It’s a testament to the power of music to express the deepest of emotions and connect with audiences on a profound level. The song’s timeless appeal and Haggard’s incredible talent make it a cherished piece of music history that continues to touch hearts and resonate with listeners even to this day.
- Album: That’s the Way Love Goes
- Artist: Merle Haggard
- Released: 1983
Lyrics
I’ve been throwing horseshoes
Over my left shoulder
I’ve spent most all my life
Searching for that four-leaf clover
Yet you ran with me
Chasing my rainbows
Honey, I love you too
That’s the way love goes
That’s the way love goes, babe
That’s the music God made
For all the world to sing
It’s never old, it grows
Losing makes me sorry
You say, “Honey, now don’t worry
Don’t you know I love you too?”
And that’s the way love goes
That’s the way love goes, babe
That’s the music God made
For all the world to sing
It’s never old, it grows
Losing makes me sorry
And you say, “Honey, don’t worry
Don’t you know I love you too?”
And that’s the way love goes
