About The Song
The song “Sing Me Back Home” was written and recorded by Merle Haggard and his band, The Strangers. It was released in November 1967 as the first single and title track from the album “Sing Me Back Home”. The album’s title track was inspired by an inmate named Jimmy “Rabbit” Kendrick, whom Haggard knew while serving time in San Quentin. The emotional connection between the incarcerated and the power of music serve as the heart of this song. The poignant lyrics tell the story of a prisoner being led down the hallway to his execution. As he bids farewell, he requests his fellow inmates to sing him back home one last time, providing solace in their shared experience. Merle Haggard’s soul-stirring performances of “Sing Me Back Home” have left a lasting impact. You can watch live renditions on YouTube, including those from the ‘Last of the Breed’ Tour and the ‘Live from Austin, TX’ concert.