Merle Haggard Album: “What a Friend We Have in Jesus”

Description :

In 1981, Merle Haggard released an album of Gospel songs entitled SONGS FOR THE MAMA THAT TRIED. In 1994, MCA Records resequenced the album (deleting one track, a cover of the Carter Family's "Keep On The Sunnyside") and retitled the disc WHAT A FRIEND WE HAVE IN JESUS. <p>It's hard to listen to the spartan arrangements and moving vocal performances on WHAT A FRIEND without remembering the many struggles of Haggard's life: childhood poverty, early imprisonment, and, after his rise to fame, problems with drugs, alcohol, and personal relationships. Haggard's life experiences deepen his performances on WHAT A FRIEND; his singing manages to communicate both his desire to approach God and his regrets over past failings. Several songs deal directly with man's unworthiness of God's love, others with the loss of loved ones and the challenge that poses to faith. But Haggard imbues even the songs of pure faith, such as "In The Garden" and "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot" with a powerful sadness, taking WHAT A FRIEND to a level of profundity many country Gospel albums never approach.

This album is undoubtedly one of Merle Haggards best ever. I consider this to be some of the finest gospel music ever recorded. The music goes right to the heart. This album is the epitomy of Merle haggard.

5 STARS, every person will feel a closeness that only Merle Haggard can portray for the love of Our Lord. Every song is moving, lovely and filled with love for all people. When you hear the story about his mother, it brings one to tears. Such love, such a voice.......thanks, Merle.

You've never heard Merle Haggard until you hear this CD. Merle's rendition of classic gospel songs is priceless. You'll find it's the one cd you leave in the player. Every time you hear the songs it's like they're new again!

I enjoy this recording very much on Sundays or anytime I want to get the gospel spirit, but more of a calm, peaceful spirit. The songs are done well and are not overdone. It seems like maybe I wish that they would be longer sometimes. Since it's not an album I get out 'all' the time, I am giving it 4 stars.