Introduction:
Merle Haggard’s “I Think I’ll Just Stay Here and Drink”: A Look Back
Merle Haggard’s “I Think I’ll Just Stay Here and Drink” arrived in 1980, settling into the world from Haggard’s album “Back to the Barrooms.” The song, a poignant reflection on heartbreak and the allure of escape, became a staple of Haggard’s repertoire.
Haggard, known for his Bakersfield sound and working-class anthems, wasn’t shy about exploring themes of loneliness and the solace, or perhaps the illusion of solace, found in alcohol. “I Think I’ll Just Stay Here and Drink” follows this thread. The lyrics paint a picture of a man drowning his sorrows after a failed relationship. He contemplates changing his ways, but the sting of rejection is too strong. The bar becomes a refuge, a place to numb the pain with another round.
The song’s origins hold a bit of mystery. While credited to Haggard, Pete Dixon of Arkansas once filed a lawsuit claiming authorship. The case was ultimately settled, but it adds a layer of intrigue to the song’s history.
“I Think I’ll Just Stay Here and Drink” resonated with Haggard’s audience, many of whom identified with the blue-collar struggles and emotional vulnerability the song expresses. Haggard’s signature baritone vocals and the song’s simple yet evocative melody make it a timeless lament, a classic country tune about heartache and the temporary comfort found at the bottom of a glass.