About The Song
“Saginaw, Michigan” is a classic country song performed by American singer Lefty Frizzell. Released in 1964, the song is one of Frizzell’s most popular and enduring hits, known for its storytelling and melodic charm.
Background and Release
- Artist: Lefty Frizzell
- Album: Saginaw, Michigan
- Release Date: December 1963
- Label: Columbia Records
Songwriters and Production
- Written by: Bill Anderson, Don Wayne
- Produced by: Don Law
Musical Style and Themes
“Saginaw, Michigan” is a mid-tempo country song with a traditional honky-tonk feel, featuring twangy guitars and Frizzell’s smooth, expressive vocals. The song tells the story of a young man from Saginaw, Michigan, who falls in love with a wealthy man’s daughter. Despite the father’s disapproval and attempts to buy him off, the young man devises a clever plan to win his love and prove his worth.
Chart Performance
“Saginaw, Michigan” achieved significant success on the charts:
- Billboard Hot Country Singles: Reached number one
- Billboard Hot 100: Peaked at number 85
Impact and Legacy
The song was a major hit for Lefty Frizzell and is considered one of his signature songs. Its engaging narrative and catchy melody have made it a staple of classic country music. The success of “Saginaw, Michigan” helped cement Frizzell’s reputation as one of country music’s great storytellers.
Music Video and Live Performances
While there was no official music video at the time of its release, “Saginaw, Michigan” was often performed by Frizzell in his live shows. His performances were noted for their warmth and relatability, bringing the song’s story to life for audiences.
Awards and Recognition
Although “Saginaw, Michigan” did not win specific awards at the time, it remains highly regarded in the country music community and is often featured on lists of classic country songs.
Legacy
Decades after its release, “Saginaw, Michigan” continues to be celebrated for its timeless appeal and storytelling prowess. It is frequently covered by other artists and remains a beloved track in Lefty Frizzell’s discography. The song’s narrative and musicality exemplify the best of traditional country music and its enduring influence on the genre.
Video
Lyrics
Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
I was born in Saginaw, Michigan
I grew up in a house on Saginaw Bay
My dad was a poor, hard-working Saginaw fisherman
Too many times he came home with too little pay
I loved a girl (I loved a girl)
In Saginaw, Michigan (Saginaw, Michigan)
The daughter of a wealthy, wealthy man
But he called me that son of a Saginaw fisherman
And not good enough to claim his daughter’s hand
Now I’m up here in Alaska looking around for gold
Like a crazy fool I’m digging in this frozen ground so cold
But with each new day I pray I’ll strike it rich and then
I’ll go back home and claim my love in Saginaw, Michigan
I wrote my love (I wrote my love)
In Saginaw, Michigan (Saginaw, Michigan)
I said honey I’m coming home please wait for me
And you can tell your dad I’m coming back a richer man
I hit the biggest strike in Klondike history
Her dad met me (Her dad met me)
In Saginaw, Michigan (Saginaw Michigan)
He gave me a great big party with champagne
Then he said son you wise young ambitious man
Will you sell your father-in-law your Klondike claim?
Now he’s up there in Alaska digging in the cold, cold ground
The greedy fool is looking for the gold I never found
It serves him right and no one here is missing him
Least of all the newlyweds of Saginaw, Michigan
We’re the happiest man and wife in Saginaw, Michigan
He’s ashamed to show his face in Saginaw, Michigan
