King Without A Queen

Merle Haggard · Hag-The Studio Recordings 1969-1976 [2007]

(Bob Wills - John Wills - Martha Dean Moore)

Riches do not come in silver and in gold

It comes in the happiness you find

I place my gold and silver before my precious queen

But now there's only mem'ries left behind.

If you never lost a loved one

Then you'll know just what I mean

For what good are treasures and the kingdom

If you're a king without a queen?

Now that she has gone and found another love

My castle is empty and so cold

For her leaving brought me heartaches that I have never known

And there's sadness in the treasures I now hold.

If you never lost a loved one

Then you'll know just what I mean

For what good are treasures and the kingdom

If you're a king without a queen?

If you're a king without a queen...

King Without A Queen

Merle Haggard's 'King Without A Queen' stands as a poignant testament to the outlaw country ethos that defined his career. Recorded during the late 1960s and 1970s, the track captures the solitary resilience of a man who leads his own life, unbound by romantic entanglements. The song reflects the broader cultural sentiment of the era, where independence and self-reliance were celebrated virtues. Haggard's delivery, characterized by his signature twang and narrative storytelling, brings a raw authenticity to the subject of solitary kingship. As part of his extensive discography, this recording exemplifies his ability to blend traditional folk elements with the rebellious spirit of the American West, creating a timeless piece that resonates with listeners who value personal freedom and the dignity of the lone traveler.