To me, Hag was the undisputed king of country music. Although his music was much more than country; really, he was the king of American music.
The songs he wrote and sang were timeless, sounding as fresh and vital today as they did when they were hits. There are a lot of songs from the '60's-'70's that I like, but have heard too many times. When they come on the radio, I turn them down, but it if 'Mamma Tried' or 'Working Man Blues' or any of 30+other Hag hits comes on, I turn it up and dig it like it's the first time I've heard it.
I had the good fortune to see MH several times, and each time it was 100% excellent. Singer, songwriter, band leader, hit maker, showman, and dangerous guitar picker, Merle did it all.
A life well lived
Thanks, Hag!