About the song
As the holiday season approaches, many of us find ourselves surrounded by the sights and sounds of joy, love, and celebration. However, for those who have faced economic hardship, unemployment, and loneliness, the festive atmosphere can be a bittersweet reminder of the struggles they endure. It is in this context that Merle Haggard’s iconic song “If We Make It Through December” takes on a profound significance, offering a powerful message of hope and resilience that continues to resonate with listeners to this day.
Written and recorded by Haggard and his band, the Strangers, in 1973, “If We Make It Through December” is a poignant ballad that tells the story of a working-class man struggling to make ends meet during the Christmas season. With its simple yet powerful poetry, the song captures the desperation and optimism of a man who has been laid off from his factory job, and is now facing the prospect of a bleak and lonely holiday season. As he navigates the challenges of unemployment and economic hardship, the protagonist finds solace in the hope that “everything’s gonna be alright” if he can just make it through the coldest time of winter.
With its themes of economic hardship, loneliness, and the struggle to maintain hope in the face of adversity, “If We Make It Through December” is a song that speaks to the human experience in a way that transcends the holiday season. Its message of resilience and determination has resonated with listeners for decades, earning it a place as one of the greatest country songs of all time. In this article, we will delve into the history and significance of “If We Make It Through December,” exploring its themes, critical reception, and enduring impact on country music.
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Lyrics
If we make it through December
Everything’s going to be alright, I know
It’s the coldest time of winter
And I shiver when I see the falling snow
If we make it through December
Got plans to be in a warmer town come summer time
Maybe even California
If we make it through December, we’ll be fineGot laid off down at the factory
And their timing’s not the greatest in the world
Heaven knows I’ve been working hard
I wanted Christmas to be right for daddy’s girl
I don’t mean to hate December
It’s meant to be the happy time of year
But my little girl don’t understand
Why daddy can’t afford no Christmas hereIf we make it through December
Everything’s going to be alright, I know
It’s the coldest time of winter
And I shiver when I see the falling snow
If we make it through December
Got plans to be in a warmer town come summer time
Maybe even California
If we make it through December, we’ll be fine