Often considered one of the most influential singers in country music, Merle Haggard solidified his legacy in the genre thanks to songs like “The Fightin’ Side of Me” and “The Bottle Let Me Down.” Throughout his career, the icon landed in both the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. Nothing short of a legend, the singer sadly passed away on his 79th birthday in April 2016. Although nearly a decade ago, Haggard’s legacy remains an inspiration thanks to stars like Willie Nelson always remembering the talent he brought to the stage.
On Friday, November 7th, Nelson will release his new album Workin’ Man: Willie Sings Merle. Instead of the album featuring new songs from Nelson, the album will shine a light on the career of Haggard. Featuring 11 songs, the outlaw country star will cover hits like “Silver Wings”, “Mama Tried”, and “Somewhere Between.” Looking at the full list of songs, the album included:
Videos by American Songwriter
1. Workin’ Man Blues
2. Silver Wings
3. Tonight The Bottle Let Me Down
4. Today I Started Loving You Again
5. Swinging Doors
6. Okie From Muskogee
7. Mama Tried
8. I Think I’ll Just Stay Here And Drink
9. Somewhere Between
10. If We Make It Through December
11. Ramblin’ Fever
[RELATED: How Willie Nelson and Alabama Dominated the Country Music World in 1982]
Willie Nelson Offers A Taste With “Workin’ Man Blues”
Although a tribute to Haggard, Nelson had the honor of working with the singer in the past. They collaborated on albums like Django and Jimmie, Pancho and Lefty, and Last Of The Breed.
Excited for the new album, Nelson decided to drop the cover of “Workin’ Man Blues” a little early. Already gaining thousands of views, fans offered high praise, writing, “Making Texas proud for over 6 decades! Ladies and gentlemen, Mr. Willie Nelson!” Another fan added, “I think this is now my favorite version of this great song! Willie and Trigger sound great! Thank you, Willie!!!
With Workin’ Man: Willie Sings Merle, Nelson not only honors his longtime friend but also ensures that Haggard’s songs continue to resonate with new generations of country fans.
(Photo by Gary Miller/Getty Images)
Most Viewed
-
Photo by Michael Loccisano/Getty Images -
Photo by Jeff Schear/Getty Images for Acrisure Amphitheater -
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – Lainey Wilson performs onstage during the 61st Academy of Country Music Awards at MGM Grand Garden Arena on May 17, 2026 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for ACM) -
NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE – JUNE 04: (EDITORIAL USE ONLY) Ella Langley performs during the 2026 CMA Fest at Nissan Stadium on June 04, 2026 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Taylor Hill/FilmMagic) -
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – MAY 17: Chris Stapleton attends the 61st Academy of Country Music Awards at MGM Grand Garden Arena on May 17, 2026 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by John Shearer/Getty Images for ACM) -
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA – JUNE 20: Kirk Hammett of Metallica performs at Levi's Stadium on June 20, 2025 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Steve Jennings/Getty Images) -
LONDON, ENGLAND – MARCH 03: Canadian musician, singer and songwriter David Clayton-Thomas (Blood Sweat & Tears) performs at the Man Doki Soulmates: Wings Of Freedom Concert on March 3, 2017 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Isa Foltin/Getty Images for Man Doki Soulmates) -
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – MAY 17: EDITORIAL USE ONLY. Kane Brown performs onstage during the 61st Academy of Country Music Awards at MGM Grand Garden Arena on May 17, 2026 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)