About the song
Merle Haggard, often hailed as one of the greatest voices in country music, delivered a memorable performance at the Anaheim Stadium Concert in October 1980, where he performed two of his iconic songs: “Running Kind” and “The Fugitive.” These songs are deeply connected to Haggard’s persona, capturing the essence of his life experiences and the themes of restlessness, rebellion, and redemption that permeate his music.
“Running Kind” is a song that speaks to the restless spirit, a theme that resonates with many who feel out of place in a world that demands conformity. Written by Haggard himself, the song reflects the singer’s own struggles and his feeling of being perpetually on the run, both physically and emotionally. The lyrics, “I was born the running kind, leaving always on my mind,” convey a deep sense of unease and a need to escape, a feeling that many of his fans could relate to. Haggard’s life was marked by a series of personal challenges, including a troubled youth that led him to spend time in prison. This background gave him a unique perspective and authenticity that came through in his music, especially in “Running Kind.”
“The Fugitive,” another classic Haggard song performed during the Anaheim concert, further explores the theme of life on the run. Originally written by Liz Anderson and Casey Anderson, the song tells the story of a man who is constantly fleeing from the law, trying to avoid capture but knowing that his fate is sealed. Haggard’s rendition of “The Fugitive” is haunting, filled with a sense of inevitability and resignation. The song became one of his signature hits, embodying the outlaw image that Haggard had come to represent in country music. His ability to convey the desperation and loneliness of the fugitive’s life made the song a powerful anthem for those who felt trapped by their circumstances.
The Anaheim Stadium Concert in 1980 was a significant event, showcasing Haggard at the peak of his career. His performance of “Running Kind” and “The Fugitive” demonstrated not only his vocal prowess but also his deep connection to the stories he told through his songs. Haggard’s voice, rich with emotion and experience, brought these songs to life in a way that few other artists could.
For an audience largely comprised of older country music fans, this performance was a reminder of why Merle Haggard had become a legend in the genre. His songs spoke to real life, to the struggles and heartaches that many in the audience had experienced themselves. Haggard’s music was more than just entertainment; it was a reflection of the human condition, delivered with honesty and sincerity.
In the years since that concert, “Running Kind” and “The Fugitive” have continued to be celebrated as two of Haggard’s most enduring works. They capture the essence of his artistry—simple yet profound, deeply personal yet universally relatable. For those who witnessed his performance at the Anaheim Stadium, it was an unforgettable experience that highlighted the enduring power of Merle Haggard’s music.
Video
Lyrics
I was born the runnin’ kind
With leavin’ always on my mind
Home was never home to me at any time
Every front door found me hopin’
I would find the back door open
There just had to be an exit
For the runnin’ kind
Within me there’s a prison
Surrounding me alone
As real as any dungeon with its walls of stone
I know runnin’s not the answer
Yeah, but runnin’s been my nature
And a part of me
That keeps me movin’ on
I was born the runnin’ kind
With leavin’ always on my mind
Home was never home to me at any time
Every front door found me hopin’
I would find the back door open
There just had to be an exit
For the runnin’ kind
I was born the runnin’ kind
With leavin’ always on my mind
Home was never home to me at any time
Every front door found me hopin’
I would find the back door open
There just had to be an exit
For the runnin’ kind