Exploring Merle Haggard’s Classic: ‘That’s The Way Love Goes’

“Merle Haggard – That’s The Way Love Goes” is a classic country song that remains a pinnacle in the genre. This track, released in 1983, is a cover of Lefty Frizzell’s original song. Haggard’s rendition, however, has set a new benchmark for other cover versions due to its unique expressions of love, loss, and realism that are typically inherent to country music.

Merle Haggard’s version of “That’s The Way Love Goes” is renowned for its blend of traditional country sound with a modern touch. The song starts with a slow tempo, accompanied by Haggard’s strong yet softly-spoken voice, and a gentle guitar strumming in the background. The sound arrangement and the lyrics come together in a seamless harmony, creating a compelling narrative that draws listeners into the depths of love’s complexities.

Contrary to the upbeat tempo of the original version, Haggard adopts a more relaxed pace, allowing for a deeper emotional connection with the lyrics. The song is about love’s unpredictability, its ups and downs, and the joys and sorrows it brings. Haggard captures this essence beautifully, delivering each line with a raw and sincere emotion that resonates with the listener.

The song’s lyrics are poetic and poignant, reflecting Haggard’s mastery of songwriting. They delicately balance the heartwarming and heartbreaking aspects of love, exploring its ability to both heal and hurt. Haggard sings, “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.” These lines strike a chord with listeners, echoing the universal experiences of love and the various emotions it brings about.

Merle Haggard’s “That’s The Way Love Goes” soared to the top of the country charts and won the Grammy Award for Best Male Country Vocal Performance in 1984. This testament to its popularity and success further establishes Haggard’s place in country music history. His rendition of the song has set a benchmark for other artists, proving that successful covers can stay true to the original while adding their unique touch.

In conclusion, Merle Haggard’s rendition of “That’s The Way Love Goes” remains a classic in the realm of country music. Its timeless lyrical content, combined with Haggard’s distinct emotional delivery, creates an unforgettable musical experience. This song is not just a testament to Haggard’s talent and versatility as an artist, but also a tribute to the enduring power of love and the emotions it evokes in all of us.