Introduction:
That’s The Way Love Goes, a poignant country ballad delivered with Haggard’s signature baritone. Released in 1983, this track became the title song for Haggard’s thirty-eighth studio album, a collection that marked a shift towards a more introspective and laid-back sound compared to his earlier, more driving works.
Merle Haggard, a country music legend by the 1980s, needs little introduction. His Bakersfield sound, characterized by its Telecaster twang and working-class themes, had already cemented him as a giant in the genre. That’s The Way Love Goes finds Haggard backed by his longtime band, The Strangers, a group of virtuosos who understood the nuances of his voice and storytelling. Production duties were handled by Ray Baker, a seasoned collaborator who had worked with Haggard on numerous successful albums.
That’s The Way Love Goes isn’t a foot-stomping anthem or a playful fiddle tune. It’s a slow burn, a melancholic reflection on the bittersweet realities of love. The gentle strumming of the acoustic guitar sets the mood, a bed of sound for Haggard’s weathered voice to weave its tale. The lyrics, likely penned by Sanger D. Shafer (though some sources credit Lefty Frizzell), explore the complexities of relationships, the inevitable heartache that can accompany deep affection. We can expect Haggard to deliver his observations with a wry honesty, acknowledging the beauty of love’s highs while accepting the sting of its lows.
This song arrived at a particularly interesting time in Haggard’s personal life. The early 1980s saw a period of significant personal turmoil, including a well-publicized divorce. That’s The Way Love Goes can be interpreted as a reflection on these experiences, a meditation on the lessons learned from a love that ultimately wasn’t meant to be. However, it’s important to note that the song transcends mere autobiography. Haggard, a master storyteller, uses his own experiences as a springboard to explore universal themes of love and loss.
That’s The Way Love Goes wasn’t a chart-topping smash, but it resonated deeply with Haggard’s loyal fanbase. It became a staple of his live performances, a song that allowed him to connect with audiences on a deeply personal level. The track also stands as a testament to Haggard’s enduring artistry, his ability to craft deceptively simple songs that resonate with emotional complexity. So, put on your favorite pair of well-worn boots, pour yourself a glass of something strong, and prepare to be swept away by the timeless musings of Merle Haggard in That’s The Way Love Goes.