HAGGARD, MERLE
(*1937)
HAGGARD, MERLE (b. M. Ronald H., Bakersfield, Calif., April 6, 1937) The mythic life of Merle Haggard —born in grinding poverty, a stint in prison, rehabilitation and success achieved through hard work and harder livin'—is as much responsible for his success as his songs. Like WOODY GUTHRIE , Haggard is an Okie who took his real-life experiences and molded them into his music. Also like Guthrie he has been uncompromising in producing records which reflect that experience. Unlike Guthrie…