Haggard Sings of Alcohol and Broken Hearts in “The Bottle Let Me Down”

How do you handle a breakup or any problem you have? Do you often talk to a friend or family member? Do you work more hours to make you forget about what you are going through? Or, do you drown yourself with alcohol?

Most people resort to drinking alcohol whenever they encounter a breakup, but why do you think people often do that? Alcohol is usually taken by many because it gives them temporary relief from pain. It makes them feel numb, even though they become honest about what they feel. However, alcohol doesn’t solve one’s problem. At times, it adds up to the problem.

“The Bottle Let Me Down”

Alcohol and heartbreak have been a common topic in several country songs. One of which is the song from country singer Merle Haggard entitled “The Bottle Let Me Down.” This was released in 1966 as part of Haggard’s second studio album. He worked with his band The Strangers for the release of the song.

“The Bottle Let Me Down” reached number three on the Billboard Hot Country chart.

About the Song

Haggard portrays a man who drinks his pain every night with alcohol. He wanted to forget about his lover, and the only way is to drown himself with something that would temporarily ease the pain. However, he reached a point where not even alcohol can make him feel better. Now, he is left with the reality of his feelings.

Tonight the bottle let me down
And let your memory come around
The one true friend I thought I’d found
Tonight the bottle let me down

First No. 1 Album

When Haggard released Swinging Doors in 1966, it gave him his first number one album on the country chart. He released two single from his album, “The Bottle Let Me Down” and “Swinging Doors.” The latter reached number five on the country chart.

Do you still think drinking alcohol can solve your problems?