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Merle Haggard

• Music

Thursday, March 21, 2013, 2:30 AM Google Calendar Yahoo Calendar Aol Calendar Windows Live Calendar Outlook Calendar (iCal)

Legendary Country Music Hall of Famer Merle Haggard has drawn from traditional styles of American music to create a sound uniquely his own, becoming one of the most influential and important artists in all of country music. Producer Don Was once said of Haggard, "He'll tell you he's a country singer, but to me the essence of rock and roll is a cry for freedom and rebellion...and I don't know anyone who embodies it better. Every aspect of his life is a refusal to submit." Indeed, even after being diagnosed with lung cancer in 2008 and having part of his lung removed, Haggard continues to march forward and keep performing and recording music. His most recent release was 2011's 'Working on Tennessee,' a collection of new tunes as well as some Jonny Cash classics.