Tale Behind Merle Haggard‘s Hit: “It’s Not Love (But It’s Not Bad)”
Crafted by the brilliant minds of Hank Cochran and Glenn Martin, the song “It’s Not Love (But It’s Not Bad)” embarked on an extraordinary journey, eventually soaring to success on the charts in 1972. What began as a whimsical idea in Glenn Martin’s mind turned into a captivating melody that struck a chord with audiences.
Initially conceived as a humorous account of Hank Cochran’s personal situation, Glenn Martin intended to present the song as a jest during their next meeting. However, as he reached the captivating hook line, he realized the potential for something more profound. The seeds of a remarkable creation had been sown.
Collaboration ensued, with Martin approaching Cochran to lend his talents and help bring the song to fruition. Despite the slow progress, the song’s completion remained uncertain until a fateful call from Merle Haggard. Dialing Cochran from Florida, Haggard urgently sought a powerful song for his upcoming Nashville recording session. The duo now had the motivation they needed.
Hank and Glenn rallied together, refining the song’s final verse and polishing its edges. When Haggard arrived in Nashville the following day, the masterpiece was ready for his ears. Recorded at the renowned “Quonset Hut” studio, Merle’s rendition of “It’s Not Love (But It’s Not Bad)” featured his loyal ensemble, The Strangers, as well as the accomplished session pianist Hargus “Pig” Robbins, a rare addition that enriched the musical arrangement.
Interestingly, a prior Cochran-Martin creation, “Montego Bay,” was originally intended as a single but had been deferred. This time, Hank Cochran personally joined Haggard on his journey, ensuring that “It’s Not Love (But It’s Not Bad)” reached its deserved destination. Along the way, Haggard penned the poignant “I Wonder If They Ever Think Of Me,” and though he longed to release it due to its timely theme about Vietnam POWs, Hank’s dedication prevented their own creation from being overshadowed.
Hank Cochran’s unwavering commitment bore fruit, as “It’s Not Love (But It’s Not Bad)” secured a coveted CMA nomination and ultimately ascended to the top of Billboard’s Hot Country Singles chart on November 4, 1972. Following this triumph, Haggard’s heartfelt “I Wonder If They Ever Think Of Me” was unveiled, achieving similar success on February 17, 1973.
In the end, the story behind “It’s Not Love (But It’s Not Bad)” encapsulates the harmonious blend of inspiration, dedication, and collaboration that defines the creation of a timeless musical gem.
Artists: Merle Haggard, The Strangers
Album: It’s Not Love (But It’s Not Bad)
Released: 1972
Lyrics
She was always there each time I needed you
Holding on to me like I held on to you
We still don’t have what you and I once had
No, it’s not love, but it’s not bad
No, it’s not love, not like ours was
It’s not love, but it keeps love from driving me mad
And I don’t have to wonder who she’s had
No, it’s not love, but it’s not bad
I turn to her when you leave me alone
Sometimes even when you’re here, and you’re still gone
She’s slowly changing what you leave so sad
No, it’s not love, but it’s not bad
No, it’s not love, not like ours was
It’s not love but it keeps love from driving me mad
I don’t have to wonder who she’s had
No, it’s not love, but it’s not bad
No, it’s not love, not like ours was
It’s not love but it keeps love from driving me mad
And I don’t have to wonder who she’s had
No, it’s not love, but it’s not bad
