Introduction
Just Between the Two of Us: A Duet Steeped in Bakersfield Sound and Blossoming Love
“Just Between the Two of Us,” a tender duet by country music giants Merle Haggard and Bonnie Owens, isn’t just a song – it’s a window into the Bakersfield sound and a blossoming romance that would forever alter the course of their lives.
The story begins in the early 1960s. Haggard, a rising star with a rough-edged voice and a knack for storytelling, was fresh out of prison and carving a niche for himself in Bakersfield, California, a hotbed of what would be known as the Bakersfield sound – a twangier, more raw counterpoint to the smoother Nashville style. Bonnie Owens, a seasoned vocalist with a powerful voice, was already a Bakersfield mainstay. She had been a part of Buck Owens’ (no relation) band, “The Buckaroos,” and was known for her soulful harmonies.
Their paths crossed professionally, with Owens lending her vocals to Haggard’s recordings. A spark ignited, not just musically but romantically. The song “Just Between the Two of Us,” written by Liz Anderson, a Bakersfield songwriting powerhouse, arrived at the perfect time. The lyrics, a sweet declaration of love and stolen moments, mirrored the growing feelings between Haggard and Owens.
They recorded the song in 1964, initially for Tally Records, a smaller label. Released as a single, “Just Between the Two of Us” found moderate success, reaching number 28 on the country charts. However, the song’s true impact was yet to come.
In 1966, Haggard signed with Capitol Records, a major label with wider reach. Recognizing the potential of Haggard and Owens’s chemistry, Capitol re-recorded “Just Between the Two of Us” along with other duets for a full-fledged album titled “Just Between the Two of Us.” This time, backed by the legendary Bakersfield band The Strangers, the magic truly took hold.
The album, with “Just Between the Two of Us” as its centerpiece, became a critical and commercial success. The song’s simple yet heartfelt lyrics, delivered with Haggard’s signature growl and Owens’s soaring harmonies, resonated with audiences. It became an anthem for couples yearning for connection and intimacy.
Beyond the music, “Just Between the Two of Us” marked the beginning of a personal chapter for Haggard and Owens. They married in 1968, and Owens became a constant collaborator and muse for Haggard throughout his career. Their musical partnership yielded numerous successful albums, solidifying their place as Bakersfield royalty.
Though their marriage ended in divorce in 1978, “Just Between the Two of Us” remains a timeless classic. It’s a testament to the Bakersfield sound, the power of a well-crafted duet, and a love story that, for a time, beautifully unfolded “Just Between the the Two of Us.”