Introduction
“A Working Man Can’t Get Nowhere Today” is a poignant country song penned and performed by the legendary Merle Haggard. Recorded on November 11, 1975, the track was later released as a single on August 16, 1977, and subsequently featured as the title track on Haggard’s album released in September of the same year.
The song delves into the struggles and frustrations of the everyday working individual, resonating with themes that were especially pertinent during the mid-1970s. This period in American history was marked by economic challenges, including the Carter-era oil crisis, which had profound effects on the nation’s workforce. Haggard’s lyrics encapsulate the sentiments of many who felt that, despite their hard work, they were unable to make significant progress or achieve financial stability.
Interestingly, by the time the song and its corresponding album were released, Haggard had transitioned from Capitol Records to MCA Records. However, Capitol Records strategically compiled and released “A Working Man Can’t Get Nowhere Today” using previously unreleased tracks from 1975 and 1976. The album’s cover art further emphasized its central theme, portraying Haggard dressed as a laborer, complete with a hard hat and lunchbox, waiting at a bus stop—a visual nod to his reputation as the “Poet of the Common Man.”
Upon its release, the song achieved notable success on the charts. It peaked at number 16 on the U.S. country singles chart and reached number 8 on the Canadian country singles chart. The song’s relatable narrative and Haggard’s authentic delivery contributed to its warm reception among country music enthusiasts.
The album also featured other significant tracks, including “Running Kind,” which became a concert favorite. In his 1999 memoir, “My House of Memories,” Haggard reflected on this song, noting, “I later wrote ‘The Runnin’ Kind,’ a song that, in essence, says I’ve always been running, for no particular reason. There is a restlessness in my soul that I’ve never conquered…”
Critically, the album received positive reviews. AllMusic critic Eugene Chadbourne remarked on Haggard’s blend of traditional material with his own songwriting, highlighting the album’s thoughtful composition. Additionally, music critic Robert Christgau praised the album, stating, “These are powerful pieces whether you like them or not, rendered with passionate sympathy and a touch of distance—his strongest in years.”
In essence, “A Working Man Can’t Get Nowhere Today” stands as a testament to Merle Haggard’s ability to capture the essence of the working-class experience, solidifying his legacy as a voice for the common man in country music.