Honky Tonky Mama

Merle Haggard · If I Could Only Fly [2000]

If you go down to the bottom

Better watch the way you act

If you fool around them honkies

You will never make it back.



When you get in trouble

The best you can do is lose

For them honky tonky moma's

They'll give you the honky blues.



I went down to the bottom

Just a week ago today

Met a honky tonky baby

And I couldn't get away.



Lost all my money

And brand new padded shoes

For them honky tonky moma's

They had them honky blues.



I drank a half of pint a liquor

And a half a pint of gin

Saw my honky tonky mama

Foolin' around some other men.



Really felt mistreated

My baby I was about to lose

Got jealous of my baby

I had them old honky tonky blues, sure did.



--- Instrumental ---



She's a honky tonky mama

Got her honky tonky way's

She got me in trouble

Now I'm servin day's.



Big policmen got me

Would not turn me lose

Took me down to the station

Locked me in the county blues, good mornin' judge.



When I go back to the bottom

Gonna watch my p's and q's

Or them honky tonky mama's

Will be givin' me the blues.



Gonna have protection

I think I have paid my dues

I'll find me a honky tonky moma

And give her back these old honky tonky blues.



I'll find me a honky tonky moma

And give her these old honky tonky blues.



I'll find me a honky tonky moma

And give her these old honky tonky blues...

Honky Tonky Mama

Honky Tonky Mama stands as a testament to Merle Haggard's enduring mastery of traditional country music. Recorded for the 2000 album If I Could Only Fly, the track captures the essence of Haggard's signature sound, blending honky-tonk rhythms with his distinctive, weathered vocal delivery. Throughout his extensive discography, Haggard consistently explored themes of heartache, resilience, and the working-class experience, often finding solace in the familiar atmosphere of the dance hall. This recording reflects his ability to craft relatable narratives that resonate deeply with fans of the genre. As part of a celebrated body of work spanning decades, the song reinforces Haggard's status as a pivotal figure in American music, maintaining the high standards of songwriting and performance that defined his career.