THE SONG “SING ME BACK HOME” WASN’T ALWAYS MERLE HAGGARD’S
And the man behind the mysterious deal — was Buck Owens.
In the world of country music, Merle Haggard stands as one of its greatest poets — a man who turned pain, guilt, and redemption into timeless songs. But few fans know that one of his most powerful creations, “Sing Me Back Home”, was once part of a murky deal involving another country icon — Buck Owens.
1. Two Giants From Bakersfield
Both Haggard and Owens emerged from the Bakersfield Sound era — a raw, electric, unapologetic version of country music that rebelled against Nashville’s polish.
While Buck Owens had already become a superstar with hits like “Act Naturally” and “Together Again”, Merle Haggard was still struggling to rise. Owens, a savvy businessman with his own publishing company and radio stations, was one of the few powerful figures capable of shaping careers in California’s country scene.
2. When Haggard Needed Money — and the Price He Paid
According to several accounts, during the early 1960s Merle Haggard was in financial trouble. He needed money to continue recording and promoting his music. Buck Owens reportedly stepped in to help — offering him financial support.
In exchange, however, Owens allegedly received 50% ownership of the publishing rights to “Sing Me Back Home.”
Haggard would later express regret for having “trusted too easily” during the early years of his career. While he never publicly accused Buck Owens, those close to both men confirmed the story — a reminder that even among friends, the music business can be ruthless.
3. A Song Written in Tears
Ironically, “Sing Me Back Home” was born from Haggard’s time in prison, inspired by a real-life execution of a fellow inmate. It’s a song about forgiveness, mortality, and peace — a hymn for lost souls.
That such a spiritual, deeply human song became entangled in a financial dispute only makes its story more haunting. It reveals the painful contrast between the purity of art and the harshness of the industry behind it.
4. Buck Owens — Genius or Shrewd Businessman?
Buck Owens was not only a brilliant performer; he was a skilled businessman. He owned recording studios, real estate, and publishing rights. His sharp instincts made him rich — but also controversial.
Some musicians who worked with Owens described him as “a businessman first, and an artist second.” He was known for negotiating tough deals and always staying one step ahead. Whether that makes him opportunistic or visionary remains a matter of opinion.
5. Two Legends, One Legacy
Despite their complicated past, both men went on to cement their legacies. Merle Haggard’s “Sing Me Back Home” became one of the most recorded country songs of all time. Buck Owens continued to inspire countless younger artists, including Dwight Yoakam.
Haggard’s decision to perform the song repeatedly throughout his life was seen by many as his way of reclaiming its soul — proving that art, once born from truth, can never be taken away. The story behind “Sing Me Back Home” reminds us that even the most heartfelt music can hide a storm beneath its melody — and that behind every hit lies a human story of trust, regret, and survival.
🎵 Suggested Listening: “Sing Me Back Home” – Merle Haggard