By admin 
Merle Haggard’s “If We Make It Through December” stands as a profound testament to country music’s unique ability to convey the raw and unfiltered emotions of everyday life. Released in 1973 as the lead single from Haggard’s album Merle Haggard’s Christmas Present, this track transcends its Christmas album roots to become an enduring anthem of resilience, hope, and the human spirit’s capacity to endure adversity. Far from being just another holiday song, it captures a complex emotional landscape that resonates deeply with listeners from all walks of life.
The album Merle Haggard’s Christmas Present is a thoughtful blend of traditional Christmas tunes and original songs, but “If We Make It Through December” stands apart due to its somber, reflective tone. While many Christmas songs embrace joy and festivity, this track candidly acknowledges the hardships that the holiday season can bring. For many, December is not a time of celebration but a period fraught with financial stress and personal struggle. It is this contrast that makes the song so compelling and relatable.
Merle Haggard was already an acclaimed figure in country music by the time this album was released. Known for pioneering the Bakersfield sound—a style characterized by twangy guitars and stripped-down arrangements—Haggard’s Christmas album shows an impressive range of musical expression. Yet, “If We Make It Through December” emerges as the album’s emotional centerpiece. Reflecting on the song’s impact, music historian Linda Carter explains,
“Haggard’s ability to capture the rawness of human experience, especially through ‘If We Make It Through December,’ reveals why country music resonates with authenticity. This song, in particular, gives voice to the silent struggles many face during the holidays.”
The song itself tells the story of a father grappling with financial hardship, desperate to maintain hope and provide for his family during a challenging December. The opening lines, “I don’t mean to hate December, it’s meant to be the happy time of year,” encapsulate the bittersweet tension between societal expectations of holiday joy and the harsh reality facing so many. Haggard’s delivery is tender and sincere, allowing listeners to feel the emotional weight behind the lyrics.
John Matthews, a longtime fan and community leader from Bakersfield, recalls,
“When Merle sang that song, it was like he was speaking directly for the people around here—folks struggling to make ends meet, holding on to hope despite everything. It’s more than just a song; it’s a lifeline.”
Musically, the arrangement of “If We Make It Through December” is a masterclass in minimalism that amplifies emotional depth. The track opens with a delicate piano melody—a tonal choice that strikes as somewhat uncharacteristic for Haggard, who usually favored guitar-driven sounds. This gentle piano introduces a reflective mood immediately, adding a layer of vulnerability.
As the song progresses, the acoustic guitar, an essential element of the Bakersfield sound, enters with a steady, twangy rhythm. Steel guitar flourishes weave subtly throughout, adding texture and melancholy without overshadowing Haggard’s vocals. Music critic Peter Olson notes,
“The restrained instrumentation is genius. The sparseness lets Haggard’s voice carry the narrative, making every lyric count. The blend of piano and steel guitar evokes a deep emotional response that’s as much about what’s unsaid as what’s sung.”
The song’s success was immediate and profound. Quickly rising to the top of the country charts, “If We Make It Through December” became one of Merle Haggard’s most enduring hits. Its appeal transcends country music—to this day, it is included not just in holiday playlists but also in collections celebrating country’s storytelling tradition. The song’s themes of economic hardship, family devotion, and persistent hope maintain their relevance decades after its initial release.
Family friend and music scholar Elaine Robertson comments,
“This song’s themes haven’t aged a bit. In fact, in today’s uncertain economic climate, ‘If We Make It Through December’ feels more urgent and heartfelt than ever. It reminds us that music can both comfort and unite us in tough times.”
For listeners who find a special connection with this song, numerous other tracks share its blend of poignant storytelling and emotional resonance. Merle Haggard’s own “Mama Tried” reflects a similar raw introspection on hardship and redemption. Elvis Presley’s “Blue Christmas” echoes the melancholic spirit of holiday loneliness. Loretta Lynn’s “Coal Miner’s Daughter” and Kenny Rogers’ “The Gambler” also offer narratives rooted in working-class struggles and life’s lessons. More contemporary songs like Brad Paisley and Alison Krauss’s “Whiskey Lullaby” continue this tradition of heartfelt, story-driven country music.
Today, “If We Make It Through December” serves as a powerful reminder of the strength found in simplicity and sincerity. It stands in contrast to much of today’s music, which often prioritizes production spectacle over authentic substance. The interplay between piano and guitar in this track emphasizes how thoughtful musical choices can profoundly enhance lyrical storytelling.
Through this song, Merle Haggard crafts an experience that stays with listeners long after the last note fades—a testimony to the enduring power of heartfelt music that embraces life’s complexities without glossing over its hardships.
Video
https://youtube.com/watch?v=k0AM6mb19os