Merle Haggard and Bonnie Owens shared a deep personal and professional bond that extended well beyond their marriage. They married in 1965 and divorced in 1978, but their musical partnership endured for decades. Owens continued to perform as Haggard’s harmony singer and remained a cherished member of his touring band, The Strangers, until her passing in 2006.
Their enduring friendship and musical synergy remained evident in performances like their duet of “Jackson” on The Ralph Emery Special in 1970. In this rendition, they showcased their playful chemistry and vocal harmony, further cementing their legacy as one of country music’s iconic duos.