Merle Haggard

Country music was not spared from the grief that came early and often in 2016. Legendary artists seemed to pass at unheard of rates — men and women we'd relied on for hit songs and unforgettable live performances for decades died, often unexpectedly this year. In this video Taste of Country remembers them one final time.

Twenty-five songs will be inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2017, including songs by Elvis Presley, Merle Haggard, Bonnie Raitt and the Everly Brothers.

The ACM Awards have established a new honor in memory of one of country’s most iconic artists, Merle Haggard.

Toby Keith gave a poignant tribute to the late country icon Merle Haggard during his performance at the Grand Ole Opry in May, blending together several of the legend’s hits for one memorable performance.

Merle Haggard's voice strains but remains resilient as he sings his final song, "Kern River Blues." The spirit of the Hag is still alive in this country ballad.

Longtime Merle Haggard fans saddened by the legend's death will receive some solace on Thursday (May 12) when a new single is released from the late singer.

If this is your birthday or anniversary, congratulations! Here are a few events in country music that happened on this date.

The inaugural G Fest, which will be held in Muskogee, Okla. this June, is going to great lengths to honor the late Okie from Muskogee, Merle Haggard.

The ACCAs chose the perfect singer to honor Merle Haggard. Toby Keith performed a seven-song tribute to the legend.

Merle Haggard put the town of Muskogee, Okla., on the musical map, and the city will pay tribute to the country icon with a public memorial.