Merle Haggard & Willie Nelson – It’s All Going to Pot

About the Song

Merle Haggard and Willie Nelson, two icons of country music, joined forces in 2015 for a surprising and lighthearted tune – “It’s All Going to Pot.” This song takes a humorous look at the changing world, seen through the eyes of two seasoned veterans of country music.

A Collaboration of Legends: Haggard and Nelson, both known for their distinctive vocals and sharp songwriting, create a perfect harmony in this duet. Their playful delivery adds to the humor of the song, making it clear they’re having fun with the lyrics.

A World Gone Mad (Maybe): The song’s central theme is the feeling that the world is changing for the worse. Lines like “Well, it’s all going to pot / Whether we like it or not / Best I can tell / The world’s gone to hell” showcase a mock lament about a society they might not fully recognize.

Tongue-in-Cheek Humor: It’s important to note that the song is delivered with a heavy dose of tongue-in-cheek humor. Haggard and Nelson, both known for their strong personalities, are likely poking fun at the idea of grumpy old men complaining about change.

A Look Back with a Smile: At its core, “It’s All Going to Pot” is a lighthearted look back at their lives and careers. These two legends, who’ve seen the music industry and the world evolve considerably, are playfully reflecting on the good old days, all while acknowledging that change is inevitable.

A Timeless Appeal: Despite its specific references, the song’s humor transcends generations. Anyone who feels a little out of touch with the times can relate to the sentiment of a world moving a little too fast. “It’s All Going to Pot” reminds us that laughter is a great way to deal with change, and that even legends can poke fun at themselves.

A Bonus: The Songwriters: “It’s All Going to Pot” wasn’t written by Haggard or Nelson themselves. It was penned by Buddy Cannon, Larry Shell, and Jamey Johnson. This collaboration between established stars and new talent adds another layer of interest to the song, showcasing the enduring spirit of country music.

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Lyrics: “It’s All Going To Pot”

Well, it’s all going to pot
Whether we like it or not
Best I can tell
The world’s gone to hell
And we’re sure gonna miss it a lot

All of the whiskey in Lynchburg, Tennessee
Just couldn’t hit the spot
I gotta hundred dollar bill, friend
You can keep your pills
Cause it’s all going to pot

That cackle-bobble-head-in-a-box
Must think I’m dumb as a rock
Readin’ daily news
While I’m kickin’ off my shoes
It’s scarin’ me outta my socks

The Red Headed Stranger I’m not
But buddy, let me tell you what
If ysk ol’ Will
He’ll tell ya here’s the deal
Friends, it’s all goin’ to pot

Well, it’s all going to pot
Whether we like it or not
Best I can tell
The world’s gone to hell
And we’re all gonna miss it a lot

All the whiskey in Lynchburg, Tennessee
Just couldn’t hit the spot
I gotta hundred dollar bill
You can keep your pills, friend
Cause it’s all goin’ to pot

Well I thought I had found me a girl
Sweetest little thing in the world
But all my jokes went up in smoke
When I caught her makin eyes at Merle

He said, sweet little honey
With her eye on your money
She’s gonna take every penny you got
I said she’s never gonna get it
Cause I’ve already spent it
Merle, It’s all goin’ to pot

It’s all going to pot
Whether we like it or not
Best I can tell
The world’s gone to hell
And we’re all gonna miss it a lot

All the whiskey in Lynchburg, Tennessee
Just couldn’t hit the spot
I gotta hundred dollar bill
You can keep your pills, friend
It’s all going to pot
I gotta hundred dollar bill
You can keep your pills, friend
Cause it’s all goin’ to pot