As Hank Jr. and Alan Jackson have sang, we’re clingers to sad ol’ songs. And luckily, we have some friends who are too.
Hayden Baker isn’t just a sad song lover, he’s a sad song maker as well. “Is It Cold In Oklahoma,” the second single from his forthcoming album, Barely Gettin’ By, is a tear-in-your-beer, love lost number with full fiddle and steel solos that harken back to some of the great tearjerkers from yesteryear, and will certainly be landing on our year-end best favorite songs list.
We caught up with Baker to chat about his favorite sad songs and what he loves about them!
Bluebonnets (Julia’s Song) – Aaron Watson
This song was beautiful and poignant to me the first time I heard it. Then I met Aaron and his family, which took my affinity for this song to a whole other level. Its lyrics about how bittersweet life on Earth is and how it describes the beauty in that is writing that can’t be taught. It’s writing you have to live through.
That’s My Job – Conway Twitty
My first memory of this song was when I was eight years-old at my Grandad’s funeral. My dad and I cried to it, and every time I’ve heard it since then, it’s hard for tears not to well up in my eyes.
El Cerrito Place – Keith Gattis/Charlie Robison/Kenny Chesney
Two chords, a gorgeous melody and some of the most poetic writing I’ve ever heard. It doesn’t get much better than this one.
Colder Weather – Zac Brown Band
This one’s always made me stop and listen with intent every time it comes on. The powerful melody and story of love not being possible due to geography and a soul of the gypsy variety sure has been relatable to me at times.
Is It Raining At Your House – Vern Gosdin
This one has been a favorite of mine since I learned how to sing. So much so that it even inspired my newest song, “Is It Cold In Oklahoma.”
*”Is It Cold in Oklahoma” is featured on The Best of Pro Country playlist!*
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