Introduction:
Country music icon Merle Haggard delivered a poignant ballad of love and longing with the release of “Running Kind” in January 1978. The song served as the second and final single from his album, A Working Man Can’t Get Nowhere Today, released in 1977 under Capitol Records. While Haggard had already moved to MCA Records, Capitol decided to create this album using previously recorded tracks from 1975 and 1976.
“Running Kind” perfectly embodied Haggard’s signature style, often referred to as “country outlaw.” This sub-genre of country music challenged the industry’s polished veneer, opting for a more raw and authentic sound that resonated with working-class struggles and everyday experiences. Haggard, himself a former convict who found redemption through music, often explored themes of heartbreak, regret, and the resilience of the human spirit in his songwriting.
“Running Kind” became a hit, reaching number 12 on the U.S. country singles chart and number 10 on the Canadian country singles chart. This success cemented Haggard’s status as a country music powerhouse. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its relatable story and Haggard’s powerful vocals.
“Running Kind” wasn’t just a chart-topping single for Haggard. It also garnered the attention of other country music artists. Renowned singer-songwriter Radney Foster covered the song for the 1994 tribute album, Mama’s Hungry Eyes: A Tribute to Merle Haggard. Foster’s rendition, while not achieving the same level of commercial success as the original, showcased the enduring legacy of “Running Kind”. The “Man in Black” himself, Johnny Cash, also included a cover of the song featuring Tom Petty on his box set, Unearthed.
Merle Haggard’s “Running Kind” is more than just a country song. It’s a timeless ballad that explores universal themes of love, loss, and the yearning for connection. Its critical and commercial success, along with the subsequent covers by other country music giants, solidify “Running Kind” as a cornerstone of Haggard’s impressive discography and a significant contribution to the country music landscape.