Lyrics Page
The Farmer's Daughter
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Jul 26, 2026 updated
Verified editorial review
Merle Haggard's 'The Farmer's Daughter' is a country song about a father giving away his daughter at her wedding. The lyrics describe a simple chapel ceremony and the father's mixed emotions as he reflects on raising his daughter alone after her mother left. He acknowledges the groom's unconventional appearance but accepts their love. The song focuses on family, sacrifice, and letting go, but does not contain Christian or gospel themes.
Lyrics Verified by Editorial Team
Tonight there'll be candlelight and roses
In this little country chapel that's almost falling down
There'll be tears in this old farmer's eyes this evening
When I give my one possession to that city boy from town
His hair is a little longer than we're use to
But, I guess I should find something good to say
About this man who's won the farmer's daughter
And will soon become my son-in-law today
Mama left eight years ago December
And it was hard to be a Dad and Mama too
But, somehow we made home of this old farmhouse
And love was all my baby ever knew
He could be the richest man in seven counties
And not be good enough to take her hand
But, he says he really loves the farmer's daughter
And I know the farmer's daughter loves the man