About the song
Branded Man – Merle Haggard’s Powerful Story of Life After Prison
Branded Man is one of Merle Haggard’s most personal and emotional songs, released in 1967 as the title track of his album Branded Man. Written by Haggard himself, the song reflects his own experiences as a young man who served time in prison. It tells the story of an ex-convict trying to rebuild his life, only to find that society won’t let him escape his past.
The lyrics capture the deep shame, regret, and struggle of someone who has paid for his mistakes but is still judged by the world. Lines like “No matter where I’m living, the black mark follows me” express the pain of being unable to outrun one’s past. The song doesn’t ask for pity, but it does highlight the difficulties faced by those seeking redemption. Many listeners, especially those who have made mistakes in life, can relate to its message.
Musically, Branded Man is a classic country ballad with a slow, steady rhythm, rich steel guitar, and Haggard’s signature smooth yet sorrowful vocals. The song’s simple but powerful melody allows the lyrics to take center stage, making the emotions even stronger.
This song became Haggard’s second No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, further establishing him as a major voice in country music. More importantly, Branded Man cemented his reputation as an artist who could bring real-life struggles into his music, touching the hearts of listeners from all walks of life. It remains one of his most respected songs, a testament to his ability to turn personal pain into timeless country storytelling.
Video
Lyrics
I’d like to hold my head up and be proud of who I am
But they won’t let my secret go untold
I paid the debt I owed them, but they’re still not satisfied
Now I’m a branded man out in the cold
When they let me out of prison, I held my head up high
Determined, I would rise above the shame
But no matter where I travel, the black mark follows me
I’m branded with a number on my name
I’d like to hold my head up and be proud of who I am
But they won’t let my secret go untold
I paid the debt I owed them, but they’re still not satisfied
Now I’m a branded man out in the cold
If I live to be a hundred, I guess I’ll never clear my name
‘Cause everybody knows I’ve been in jail
No matter where I’m living
I’ve got to tell them where I’ve been
Or they’ll send me back to prison if I fail
I’d like to hold my head up, be proud of who I am
But they won’t let my secret go untold
I paid the debt I owed them, but they’re still not satisfied
Now I’m a branded man out in the cold
Now I’m a branded man out in the cold
