Introduction
Prepare to be stirred by the patriotic fervor of “The Fightin’ Side Of Me” by Merle Haggard & Toby Keith. First released in 1970 by Merle Haggard and later recorded as a duet with Toby Keith in 2007, this timeless country anthem champions the spirit of standing up for one’s beliefs and love for country.
Did You Know
1. Origin:
“The Fightin’ Side Of Me” was written and originally recorded by Merle Haggard, serving as the title track of his 1970 album. The song’s bold lyrics and defiant tone struck a chord with audiences during a tumultuous period in American history, becoming an anthem for those who felt marginalized or misunderstood.
2. Duet Version:
In 2007, Toby Keith joined forces with Merle Haggard to record a duet version of “The Fightin’ Side Of Me,” bringing a new dimension to the iconic song. Their powerful collaboration breathed new life into the anthem, uniting generations of country music fans and reinforcing its timeless message of patriotism.
3. Chart Success:
Both the original version by Merle Haggard and the duet with Toby Keith achieved chart success, resonating with audiences across generations. “The Fightin’ Side Of Me” became a rallying cry for those who believed in the principles of freedom and patriotism, earning critical acclaim and enduring popularity.
4. Merle Haggard & Toby Keith:
Merle Haggard and Toby Keith, two of country music’s most iconic figures, brought their unique talents and perspectives to “The Fightin’ Side Of Me.” With their powerful vocals and unwavering commitment to authenticity, they delivered a stirring rendition of the anthem that continues to inspire listeners today.
5. Cultural Impact:
Beyond its chart success, “The Fightin’ Side Of Me” has become a cultural touchstone, inspiring countless covers and interpretations by artists across genres. Its message of patriotism and defiance resonates with audiences of all backgrounds, making it a timeless anthem of American pride and resilience.
Video
I hear people talkin’ bad,
About the way we have to live here in this country,
Harpin’ on the wars we fight,
An’ gripin’ ’bout the way things oughta be.
An’ I don’t mind ’em switchin’ sides,
An’ standin’ up for things they believe in.
When they’re runnin’ down my country, man,
They’re walkin’ on the fightin’ side of me.Yeah, walkin’ on the fightin’ side of me.
Runnin’ down the way of life,
Our fightin’ men have fought and died to keep.
If you don’t love it, leave it:
Let this song I’m singin’ be a warnin’.
If you’re runnin’ down my country, man,
You’re walkin’ on the fightin’ side of me.I read about some squirrely guy,
Who claims, he just don’t believe in fightin’.
An’ I wonder just how long,
The rest of us can count on bein’ free.
They love our milk an’ honey,
But they preach about some other way of livin’.
When they’re runnin’ down my country, hoss,
They’re walkin’ on the fightin’ side of me.Yeah, walkin’ on the fightin’ side of me.
Runnin’ down the way of life,
Our fightin’ men have fought and died to keep.
If you don’t love it, leave it:
Let this song I’m singin’ be a warnin’.
If you’re runnin’ down my country, man,
You’re walkin’ on the fightin’ side of me.Yeah, walkin’ on the fightin’ side of me.
Runnin’ down the way of life,
Our fightin’ men have fought and died to keep.
If you don’t love it, leave it:
Let this song I’m singin’ be a warnin’.
If you’re runnin’ down my country, man,
You’re walkin’ on the fightin’ side of me.