Country music icon Merle Haggard not only left behind a catalog of timeless hits but also a family of talented children, many of whom have followed in his musical footsteps. From the concert stage to creative endeavors behind the scenes, the Haggard family continues to keep his legacy alive.
Dana Haggard (1958–2018)
Merle’s eldest daughter, Dana, was both a singer and a gifted painter inspired by the California landscapes of her youth. She performed as a backup singer for The Strangers, her father’s band, and toured with her brother Marty in the short-lived Marty and Dana & the Driftwood Band. Dana passed away peacefully in 2018 at age 61, just two years after her father’s death.
Marty Haggard (b. 1958)
Merle’s firstborn son, Marty, carved his own career in country music with heartfelt ballads and traditional storytelling. After performing with his father as a rhythm guitarist and harmony vocalist, he launched a solo career in the 1980s, with his single “Trains Make Me Lonesome” earning him an ACM nomination for Top New Male Vocalist.
Kelly Haggard
Though she lived a quieter life than her siblings, Kelly was a steady presence at family gatherings and often dedicated herself to charitable and community causes, leaving an impact outside the spotlight.
Noel Haggard (b. 1963)
The son of Merle and Bonnie Owens, Noel embraced his father’s musical heritage with a sound rooted in classic country while adding his own style. Today, Noel often tours with his brother Ben, keeping their father’s music alive for a new generation of fans.
Janessa Haggard
Merle’s eldest child with his fifth wife, Teresa Ann Lane, Janessa took a different path, pursuing culinary arts and managing her father’s business affairs. In 2016, she and her husband even collaborated on cannabis strains named in honor of Merle, reflecting his personal favorites.
Ben Haggard (b. 1992)
The youngest of Merle’s children, Ben is a talented guitarist, singer, and songwriter. He began touring with his father at just 15, playing lead guitar for The Strangers for eight years. Following Merle’s advice—“Play my songs for as long as you can”—Ben continues to perform his father’s music, becoming a bridge between Merle’s legacy and today’s country scene.
Scott Haggard (b. 1968)
Born outside of Merle’s marriages, Scott discovered his love for music early, mastering multiple instruments including guitar, drums, and saxophone. After years as a truck driver, he pursued his musical dreams, earning recognition with the Horizon Award from the Mobile, Alabama Country Music Association in 2008.
From chart-topping hits to intimate family performances, Merle Haggard’s children carry forward the spirit of traditional country music. Whether performing on stage or honoring him in their own ways, the **Haggard family ensures that the legacy of the “Okie from Muskogee” lives on for generations to come.