Merle Haggard, the country music legend, passed away on April 6, 2016, at the age of 79. Haggard was a singer, songwriter, guitarist, and fiddler best known for his signature outlaw country sound. He was born in Oildale, California, in 1937 and later moved to Bakersfield, California, where he developed his unique take on the honkytonk sound. Haggard’s signature style of singing has been credited with influencing a generation of country singers. Throughout his career, Haggard racked up an impressive list of accomplishments and awards. He released more than 70 albums, and gained 38 top ten singles on the Country Music Charts. His best-known songs include “Okie From Muskogee,” “Mama Tried,” and “Silver Wings.” He was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1994, and was awarded a Kennedy Center Honor in 2010. He is survived by his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. In next to his death, his son Ben Haggard said, “A week ago Dad told us he was gonna pass on his birthday, and he wasn’t wrong. A hour ago he took his last breath surrounded by family and friends. He loved everything about life and he loved that everyone of you gave him a chance with his music. He wasn’t just a country singer.. He was the best country singer that ever lived.” Merle Haggard will be remembered for his incredible music, his influence on the country music industry, and his inimitable voice.