Dierks Bentley – If We Make It Through December

“If We Make It Through December” by Merle Haggard is a poignant country ballad that captures the struggles of working-class life during the holiday season. Released in 1973 as the lead single from his album Merle Haggard’s Christmas Present (Something Old, Something New), the song became an anthem of resilience and hope amid hardship.

The narrative unfolds through the perspective of a factory worker who has recently been laid off just before Christmas. The character reflects on his inability to provide the holiday experience he wants for his family, expressing a mixture of sorrow and determination. Despite the bleak circumstances, the chorus emphasizes the hope of better times ahead: “If we make it through December, everything’s gonna be all right, I know.”

Musically, the song features a simple yet emotive arrangement, with Haggard’s heartfelt vocals supported by a mournful steel guitar and understated instrumentation. The melancholic tone contrasts with the traditional cheer of holiday music, underscoring the emotional depth of the lyrics.

Haggard’s performance resonates with authenticity, making the song relatable to anyone who has faced uncertainty or struggled to hold onto optimism during tough times. Its themes of resilience, familial love, and the pursuit of a brighter future transcend the holiday season, cementing its place as one of Haggard’s most enduring and beloved songs.

Dierks Bentley

Bentley’s performance highlights the song’s timeless message of resilience and hope, particularly resonating with modern audiences who may find parallels to their own struggles. The simplicity of the arrangement in Bentley’s version emphasizes the poignancy of the lyrics, allowing the storytelling to shine through. His delivery captures the mixture of vulnerability and determination that defines the song, bridging generations of country music fans.

Dierks Bentley performed a heartfelt rendition of “If We Make It Through December,” paying tribute to Merle Haggard and showcasing the enduring relevance of the song’s themes. Bentley’s interpretation stays true to the emotional core of the original while adding his own distinctive vocal style, characterized by its warm and earnest tone.

This version not only honors Haggard’s legacy but also underscores the song’s place as a universal anthem of perseverance, making Bentley’s performance a moving addition to the rich history of this classic track.

Lyrics –

[Chorus]

If we make it through December
Everything’s gonna be all right, I know
It’s the coldest time of winter
And I shiver when I see the falling snow
If we make it through December
Got plans to be in a warmer town come summertime
Maybe even California
If we make it through December, we’ll be fine

[Verse]

Got laid off down at the factory
And their timing is not the greatest in the world
Heaven knows I’ve been working hard
I wanted Christmas to be right for Daddy’s girl
I don’t mean to hate December
It’s meant to be the happy time of year
But my little girl don’t understand
Why Daddy can’t afford no Christmas gear

[Chorus]

If we make it through December
Everything’s gonna be all right, I know
It’s the coldest time of winter
And I shiver when I see the falling snow
If we make it through December
Got plans to be in a warmer town come summertime
Maybe even California
If we make it through December, we’ll be fine