The meaning of the lyrics of the song "Driving the Herd" by the artist "Willie Nelson Merle Haggard"

In their song "Driving the Herd," Willie Nelson and Merle Haggard reflect on their roles as musicians and their relationships with their fans.

Merle Haggard, perhaps the more cynical of the two, likens his role to that of a herder "ridin' drag" and "eatin' dust." He acknowledges the hard work and lack of glory associated with his position, but accepts his fate: "It's my job." His task is to "push 'em on" and "drive the herd," meaning to guide and motivate the audience, even if it requires personal sacrifice.

Willie Nelson, in contrast, describes a more reciprocal relationship with his fans. His music has become intertwined with their lives, accompanying them through both joy and sorrow ("They go to sleep on my song, wake up to my song"). He recognizes that he receives as much as he gives ("I give, and I take"), finding fulfillment in knowing that his music touches people's hearts and souls ("I play for the love and the soul").

In the chorus, which they sing together, the image of "driving the herd" takes on a new meaning. It becomes a metaphor for the uncertainty and two-way influence inherent in the artist-audience dynamic. It's unclear who is leading whom: the artist guiding the crowd with their music, or the desires and responses of the audience shaping the artist's creative path. Ultimately, it is the audience's reaction ("They're gonna sing along with me every night") that validates the artist's success and lets them know they are on the right track.