One of the Greatest and Most Significant Songs of Hag, “Hungry Eyes”
Merle Haggard was one of the most influential and successful country music singers and songwriters of all time. Born in 1937 in California, he had a troubled childhood that included multiple run-ins with the law and time served in prison. However, he eventually turned his life around and became a beloved figure in the world of country music.
One of Haggard’s most well-known songs is “Mama’s Hungry Eyes,” which was released in 1968 and quickly became a hit. The song tells the story of Haggard’s childhood and the struggles that his family faced during the Great Depression. In particular, it focuses on his mother’s sacrifices and her determination to provide for her children despite the difficult circumstances.
The song’s lyrics are deeply emotional and poignant, painting a vivid picture of the poverty and hardship that Haggard experienced as a child. The chorus, in particular, is incredibly powerful, with lines like “Mama’s hungry eyes cried themselves to sleep / And daddy’s stomach was a-roarin’ louder than the jeep.”
The video for “Mama’s Hungry Eyes” was filmed in 1969 and features Haggard singing the song against a simple backdrop while black-and-white images of his childhood flash across the screen. The video perfectly captures the song’s themes of struggle, resilience, and the importance of family.
Overall, “Mama’s Hungry Eyes” is a timeless classic that remains just as relevant today as it was when it was first released over 50 years ago. Its powerful lyrics and emotional resonance make it one of Merle Haggard’s greatest contributions to country music.
YouTube URL(s):
