
Merle Haggard was to perform at Dauphin’s Countryfest on Sunday, July 3, 2016. His sons and bandmates will instead play a special tribute to the legendary country musician. (HANDOUT)
Country fans will get a tribute performance to Merle Haggard at this summer’s Dauphin’s Countryfest.
The late Haggard, who passed away on April 6 on his 79th birthday, will be honoured by his sons Ben Haggard and Noel Haggard, along with his longtime band, The Strangers, on July 3.
“You cannot replace an icon like Merle Haggard,” said Countryfest promoter Rob Waloschuk. “We couldn’t think of a better way to pay homage to the life of this prolific singer/songwriter than to have his family and friends perform a tribute concert.”
“Merle fans won’t want to miss this once-in-a-lifetime performance, exclusive to Countryfest, that will no doubt get major press coverage from across the country.”
Singer/songwriter Jamey Johnson, who has performed with Merle on several occasions, will also join the tribute.
The 27th annual Dauphin’s Countryfest takes place June 30 to July 3.
— Staff