What a Friend We Have in Jesus

 (15 customer reviews)

With his infectious and catchy vocals, I never once doubted Merle Haggard's gift of songs. Even when performing other people's work, he has that uncanny ability to make the songs his own.But though I've always been among the legion of Merle Haggard fans, I never had an inkling that this ex-prisoner who made a career writing and performing honky tonkish and drinking songs is just as effective doing purely religious stuff. This compilation is quite an eye opener.His performance of traditional hymns such as How Great Thou Art, What A Friend We Have In Jesus, Old Rugged Cross, Where No One Stands Alone, Softly And Tenderly, etc. can stand up and hold their own against those of other artists who had tried recording religious hymns before him. Tammy Wynette, Willie Nelson, Dolly Parton, and even the late king himself, Elvis Presley, have all tried their hands in this particular genre and placed alongside this exalted company, Merle is definitely an equal. His performance has never...Read more

This album is undoubtedly one of Merle Haggards best ever. I consider this to be some of the finest gospel music ever recorded. The music goes right to the heart. This album is the epitomy of Merle haggard.

Haggard's interpretation of these great songs of faith proves once again that he is just as much at home with gospel as with ballads or honky-tonk. His rich baritone brings to the listener such a beautiful blend of praise and consolation that it lifts one to a higher plane, and that should be the whole idea of gospel music. It's just terrific!