8. Merle Haggard
Merle Haggard overcame a troubled childhood and several brief stints in jail, turning his life around with the power of music. Although Merle was not well known for his political views, his song “Kern River Blues”, which was released in the late 1970’s, details his displeasure with politicians. Some of his best hits include “Mama Tried” from 1968, “Okie from Muskogee” from 1969 and “Sing Me Back Home” from 1968. He died on April 6, 2016, his 79th birthday.