A Working Man Can't Get Nowhere Today

Merle Haggard

About A Working Man Can't Get Nowhere Today

"A Working Man Can't Get Nowhere Today" is a song written and recorded by American country music artist Merle Haggard and The Strangers. It was released in August 1977 as the lead single from the album of the same name, A Working Man Can't Get Nowhere Today. The song peaked at number 16 on the U. S. country singles chart and at number 8 on the Canadian country singles chart.


Year:
1977
2:55
142 

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For years I've been busting my rear to make a living
But it ain't made
For years I've been trying to pay off my bills 
But they ain't paid
Oh every dime I make, every soul I know
Hire by reach, the farther down I go
This old broken back of mine is all I've got to show
And anyway

A working man can't get nowhere today
Lord, a working man get nowhere today
A working man ain't got no time to play
Today I work my fanny off and leave it lay
A working man can't get nowhere today

I paid my income tax
And the government gives back
But I got coming but it ain't much
I paid my child support
'Cause I'm a law abiding sort and an easy touch
And I starve my self to death
Trying to keep my family fed
I keep my budget tight, trying to get myself ahead
But I'll still be deep in debt the day that I fall dead
That's why I say

Lord, a working man can't get nowhere today
A working man can't get nowhere today
A working man ain't got no time to play
Tonight I work my fanny off and leave it lay
A working man can't get nowhere today
A working man can't get nowhere today

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Merle Haggard

Merle Ronald Haggard (born April 6, 1937) is an American country music song writer, singer, guitarist, fiddler and instrumentalist. Along with Buck Owens, Haggard and his band The Strangers helped create the Bakersfield sound, which is characterized by the unique twang of Fender Telecaster and the unique mix with the traditional country steel guitar sound, new vocal harmony styles in which the words are minimal, and a rough edge not heard on the more polished Nashville Sound recordings of the same era. more »

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Written by: HAGGARD

Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


10 facts about this song

Album Information
"A Working Man Can't Get Nowhere Today" is a track on the 17th album by American country music artist Merle Haggard and The Strangers. The album was released in 1977.
Chart Performance Details
Although the song was not released as a single, the album of the same name rose to number one on the Billboard country album charts for several weeks in mid-1976.
Songwriter Credit
Merle Haggard himself wrote the song "A Working Man Can't Get Nowhere Today", showcasing his songwriting talent along with his performance skills.
Genre and Style
The song is a classic country ballad, characterized by its melancholic tone and narrative style of storytelling, a signature of many of Haggard's works.
Relevant Themes
The song touches upon the themes of labor, financial struggle, and the working-class experience, which are recurrent themes in Merle Haggard's discography.
Reflection of Haggard's Own Life
The lyrics of the song reflect Haggard's own experiences, having been a part of the working class himself. This authenticity has contributed to the appeal and relatability of his songs.
Use of Traditional Country Instruments
The song features traditional country instruments like the pedal steel guitar and fiddle, indicative of Haggard's attachment to the roots of country music.
Influence on Country Music
Haggard's song has been cited as influential on future country music, for its honest portrayal of working-class struggles.
Album Art
The album cover features a photo of Haggard, appearing weary and reflective, which sets the tone for the song and the entire album.
Release Format
The album was initially released as an LP record and 8-track tape, typical of the time. It has since been reissued on CD and is available for streaming.

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