“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
The first time I heard Merle Haggard‘s “Big City,“ it was playing on a dusty jukebox in a small–town diner. I remember the feeling of being transported to a different place and time, the simple but powerful melody conjuring up images of bustling streets and neon lights.
About The Composition
- Title: Big City
- Composer: Merle Haggard
- Premiere Date: 1967
- Album/Opus/Collection: I‘m a Lonesome Fugitive
- Genre: Country
Background:
“Big City“ was written by Merle Haggard, drawing on his own experiences of moving from Bakersfield to Los Angeles. The song is a poignant reflection on the allure and loneliness of urban life, capturing the emotional journey of a young man seeking a new start. The song‘s release in 1967, during a period of social and cultural change, added to its relevance and resonated with audiences seeking a voice for their own desires and anxieties. It quickly became one of Haggard‘s most popular songs, solidifying his place as a major figure in country music.
Musical Style:
“Big City“ is a masterful example of Haggard‘s musical style, characterized by a raw, emotive delivery and a simple yet impactful musical arrangement. The song opens with a mournful steel guitar melody, setting the stage for Haggard‘s heartfelt vocals. The rhythm section, anchored by a driving bass line, provides a steady heartbeat to the song, propelling the story forward. The instrumentation is sparse, allowing Haggard‘s voice and the steel guitar to take center stage, creating a raw and intimate atmosphere. The guitar solo, which emerges towards the end, adds a layer of melancholy and longing to the song, highlighting the protagonist‘s feelings of isolation.
Lyrics/Libretto:
The lyrics of “Big City“ are both evocative and relatable. They tell the story of a young man who leaves his small–town life behind, seeking a brighter future in the big city. The lyrics capture the excitement of new possibilities but also the sense of loneliness and alienation that comes with being lost in a crowd. Haggard‘s ability to weave these contrasting emotions into the lyrics creates a powerful sense of realism and authenticity.
Performance History:
“Big City“ has been performed countless times by Haggard himself, as well as by other artists. It has become a staple of country music radio and is regularly included in concert setlists, showcasing its enduring popularity. The song‘s enduring appeal is evident in its repeated appearances on country music charts and its inclusion in numerous “greatest country songs of all time“ lists.
Cultural Impact:
“Big City“ has resonated beyond the realm of country music, becoming a cultural touchstone for anyone who has ever been drawn to the allure of the city. The song‘s exploration of themes like ambition, loneliness, and the search for belonging speaks to a universal human experience. It‘s been featured in numerous films and television shows, further solidifying its place in popular culture.
Legacy:
“Big City“ remains a powerful testament to Merle Haggard‘s enduring legacy. It continues to be a beloved song for its honest portrayal of human emotions and its enduring musical quality. The song‘s simple yet profound lyrics, combined with Haggard‘s distinctive voice and the evocative instrumentation, create a truly timeless piece of music that continues to touch listeners today.
Conclusion:
“Big City“ is a masterpiece of country music songwriting, a testament to Merle Haggard‘s ability to create music that resonates deeply with audiences across generations. The song‘s emotional depth, lyrical brilliance, and captivating melodies make it a truly enduring classic. I encourage you to listen to the original recording by Merle Haggard, or perhaps explore one of the many covers available. Allow yourself to be transported to the world of the song and experience its lasting power.
Video
Lyrics
I’m tired of this dirty old city
Entirely too much work and never enough play
And I’m tired of these dirty old sidewalks
Think I’ll walk off my steady job today
Turn me loose, set me free
Somewhere in the middle of Montana
And give me all I’ve got comin’ to me
And keep your retirement
And your so called social security
Big city, turn me loose and set me free
Been working everyday since I was twenty
Haven’t got a thing to show for anything I’ve done
There’s folks who never work and they’ve got plenty
Think it’s time some guys like me had some fun
So, turn me loose, set me free
Somewhere in the middle of Montana
And give me all I’ve got comin’ to me
And keep your retirement
And your so called social security
Big city, turn me loose and set me free
Hey big city, turn me loose and set me free