In case you didn’t know about the two criminals Bonnie and Clyde, Merle Haggard narrates their story in his song “The Legend of Bonnie and Clyde.”
Written by Merle Haggard and Bonnie Owens, “The Legend of Bonnie and Clyde” was released in 1968 as the first single and title track from the album of the same name. In fact, the song was Haggard and The Strangers’ fourth number one hit on the U.S. Country Singles chart. Overall, it spent two weeks at no. 1 and a total of 14 weeks on the country chart.
The Song and Its Story
“The Legend of Bonnie and Clyde” talks about the story of two Great Depression-era criminals whose names are Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow. They have traveled the United States robbing banks and killing anyone who got in their way.
Did you know that the song was a true-to-life story? It is a condensed biography of the famed outlaw Bonnie and Clyde. The tale starts from the time they met and eventually to their death in an ambush.
Released in February 1968, the song became a Merle Haggard hit, sitting atop the Billboard Country Songs. On the other hand, it clinched the third spot on the RPM Country Tracks in Canada.
Furthermore, the song has already been covered by a few other artists. However, it was Tammy Wynette’s rendition that was the most recognizable.
With this upbeat song, it shows how much the fans love Merle Haggard’s ability of storytelling. Also, this specific performance of the country music legend is a proof that he transcends every song that he sings effectively.
Check out the great Merle Haggard’s outstanding performance of “The Legend of Bonnie and Clyde:”
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