Merle Haggard

Unlike many country singers, Merle Haggard has truly led the tough life he recounts in his music, growing up dirt-poor and even serving a stint in prison before turning his life around. At the peak of his popularity, Haggard courted don’t-tread-on-me populism, and it’s no coincidence that it was Ronald Reagan who ultimately pardoned him for his legal sins. The ’90s weren’t particularly kind to Haggard, but he’s made a comeback of late, releasing collaborative albums with George Jones and Willie Nelson, along with a couple of live and best-of packages. Haggard was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2008, but—proving again that the toughness isn’t just an act—he was back playing shows within two months, and remains determined to continue touring and recording.

Updated 06/18/2012