background vocals as well as singing the final chorus. The song was also covered by the Blue Shadows, featuring Billy Cowsill, and included on the 2010 re-release of the band's debut album. The song was covered by both The Mamas and Phoebe Bridgers in November 2020. References 1973 singles Merle Haggard songs Songs written by Merle Haggard American Christmas songs Song recordings produced by Ken Nelson (American record producer) Capitol Records singles 1973 songs Songs about fathers Songs about children Songs about poverty