Some songs are more than just music—they capture a feeling, a time, a way of life. “Okie from Muskogee” by Merle Haggard is one of those songs. Released in 1969, it quickly became a defining anthem of small-town pride and traditional values, striking a chord with countless Americans who saw themselves reflected in its lyrics.
Written by Haggard and his longtime bandmate Roy Edward Burris, the song paints a picture of life in Muskogee, Oklahoma, where people “still wave Old Glory down at the courthouse” and take pride in their way of living. At a time when the country was deeply divided—marked by the Vietnam War, cultural shifts, and generational rebellion—“Okie from Muskogee” stood as a lighthearted but firm declaration of another perspective: one that valued respect, patriotism, and a simpler way of life.
But here’s what makes the song truly interesting—it’s not entirely clear whether Haggard was being 100% serious or playfully exaggerating. In later years, he admitted that part of the song was written with a touch of irony, inspired by how he and his band imagined their fathers might feel about the changing world. Still, it resonated deeply with many who embraced it as an anthem, and it became one of Haggard’s most enduring hits.
Musically, the song is pure classic country—a steady, easygoing melody, rich twang, and Haggard’s signature no-nonsense vocals. Whether you take it as a genuine declaration or a tongue-in-cheek nod to small-town conservatism, “Okie from Muskogee” is a song that has stood the test of time. It’s a piece of history wrapped in three chords and the truth—a perfect example of country music’s power to reflect, provoke, and unite.
So, whether you’re a proud Okie, a die-hard country fan, or just someone who loves a song with a story, this one’s got something for everyone
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Lyrics
We don’t smoke marijuana in Muskogee
We don’t take our trips on LSD
We don’t burn our draft cards down on Main Street
‘Cause we like livin’ right, and bein’ free
We don’t make a party out of lovin’
But we like holdin’ hands and pitchin’ woo
We don’t let our hair grow long and shaggy
Like the hippies out in San Francisco do
And I’m proud to be an Okie from Muskogee
A place where even squares can have a ball
We still wave Old Glory down at the courthouse
And white lightnin’s still the biggest thrill of all
Leather boots are still in style for manly footwear
Beads and Roman sandals won’t be seen
And football’s still the roughest thing on campus
And the kids here still respect the college dean
And I’m proud to be an Okie from Muskogee
A place where even squares can have a ball
We still wave Old Glory down at the courthouse
And white lightnin’s still the biggest thrill of all
And white lightnin’s still the biggest thrill of all
In Muskogee, Oklahoma, USA