Stay Curious. Stay Connected.
MailNewsletters♡Donate Now
Sign up
*Password must be at least 8 characters and contain one uppercase letter, one lowercase letter, one number and one symbol.
Already have an account?
By submitting, you consent that you are at least 18 years of age and to receive information about MPR's or APMG entities' programs and offerings. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about MPR, APMG entities, and its sponsors. You may opt-out at any time clicking the unsubscribe link at the bottom of any email communication. View our Privacy Policy.
Sign in to your profile
Forgot Password?
New to MPR News?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Reset Password

Enter the username on file and we'll send you a code to reset your password.

Still require assistance or not sure what your User Name is?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Email Verification

A verification code has been emailed to

Still awaiting the code?
MPR News Staff

Merle Haggard celebrated in Nashville and Minnesota

Musician Merle Haggard
Musician Merle Haggard performs onstage during day one of Stagecoach, California's Country Music Festival on April 24, 2015, in Indio, Calif.
Frazer Harrison | Getty Images for Stagecoach 2015

Go Deeper.

Create an account or log in to save stories.

Log inCreate a free Account

Like this?

Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.

Show me!

Today's Morning Edition music is from "Send Me Back Home" by Merle Haggard, who would have turned 80 years old Thursday.

The country music legend died a year ago on his 79th birthday.

His family is hosting a tribute concert Thursday night in Nashville. Many artists including Willie Nelson, Loretta Lynn, Kenny Chesney and Keith Richards will be performing.

Meanwhile, here in Minnesota, a number of bands will be playing at a tribute show at the Turf Club in St. Paul.