“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
There’s something deeply moving about “I Met Merle Haggard Today.” Mo Pitney doesn’t just tell a story here—he captures that rare, breathless feeling of meeting your hero. The song beautifully balances reverence with authenticity as Pitney recounts an encounter with one of country music’s greatest legends.
What makes this track special is how it connects generations of country music. Pitney, with his rich baritone and traditional sensibilities, pays homage to Haggard’s towering influence while establishing his own voice. The storytelling feels intimate, like you’re sitting across from Mo as he recounts this life-changing moment.
The production stays wonderfully uncluttered, allowing the emotion and narrative to shine through. It’s a perfect example of Pitney’s approach to country music—respectful of tradition without feeling like a museum piece. For anyone who’s ever admired someone from afar only to find them even more impressive up close, this song captures that magic perfectly.
Video
Lyrics
I spent the morning pouring concrete
I had a good hot plate of chicken for lunch
Filled the tank cause it was empty
Had a few errands to run
And I know what your thinkin
That sounds a little bit mundane
But just wait… I met Merle Haggard Today
My buddy called and said Haggard’s in town to tape the Marty Stuart show
So meet me at the back door down in NorthStar studios
2/4 2013 4: 45 was the time and date
Hey… I met Merle Haggard today
Oh what was I thinking
Should have took a picture with my phone
Or a least record him singing ‘pleasure to meet you Mo’
But it was over in a second
Then he strolled down to the stage
But it’s OK… Cause I met Merle Haggard today
At least I can say… I met Merle Haggard today