About the Song
“If We Make It Through December” by Merle Haggard is a poignant country ballad that captures the struggles and hardships faced by working-class Americans during the holiday season. Released in 1973 as the title track of his album, this timeless song has become one of Haggard’s most enduring and beloved hits, known for its heartfelt lyrics and emotive delivery.
From the opening chords of the acoustic guitar, “If We Make It Through December” sets a melancholic tone that immediately draws listeners in. Haggard’s rich, resonant vocals convey a sense of longing and resignation as he tells the story of a man facing financial hardship and uncertainty during the cold winter months.
The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the narrator’s struggles, from the inability to provide a joyful Christmas for his family to the fear of being laid off from work. Despite the bleak circumstances, there is a glimmer of hope as the narrator vows to persevere and find strength in the love of his family.
As the song unfolds, Haggard’s heartfelt performance and the subtle instrumentation create a sense of intimacy and vulnerability that resonates deeply with listeners. The chorus, with its poignant refrain of “If we make it through December, everything’s gonna be all right, I know,” becomes a rallying cry for resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity.
“If We Make It Through December” has stood the test of time as a timeless classic, cherished for its emotional depth and universal theme of resilience and hope. Haggard’s masterful storytelling and the song’s enduring popularity ensure that it continues to touch the hearts of audiences, serving as a reminder of the enduring strength of the human spirit, even in the darkest of times.
mrthanh