Merle Haggard

In 2016, country music saw deaths, resurrections, a shocking performance and a superstar collaboration that fans are sure to be talking about for years to come. It was truly an unforgettable year, and these are the Top 8 moments.

Country music was not spared from the grief that came early and often in 2016. Legendary artists seemed to pass at unheard of rates — men and women we'd relied on for hit songs and unforgettable live performances for decades died, often unexpectedly this year. In this video Taste of Country remembers them one final time.

Twenty-five songs will be inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2017, including songs by Elvis Presley, Merle Haggard, Bonnie Raitt and the Everly Brothers.

One of Merle Haggard's final projects was creating his own strain of marijuana, which could be available on the market within the next few months.

Miranda Lambert paid tribute to the late Merle Haggard by performing her own rendition of his classic "Misery and Gin" during the 2016 ACM Honors event, which was broadcast Friday night (Sept. 9).

Miranda Lambert covered Merle Haggard's "Misery and Gin" at the 2016 ACM Honors on Aug. 30.

Miranda Lambert will receive a major honor on Tuesday (Aug. 30) during the 10th Annual ACM Honors in Nashville, Tenn. The singer will be recognized with the inaugural ACM Merle Haggard Spirit Award at the ceremony held at the Ryman Auditorium.

A photo gallery of country stars who have passed away in 2016.

On May 16, 1979, "the Hag" recorded "Workin' Man Blues", from his 'A Portrait of Merle Haggard' album.

The inaugural G Fest, which will be held in Muskogee, Okla. this June, is going to great lengths to honor the late Okie from Muskogee, Merle Haggard.