"The Fightin' Side of Me" is a country song written and performed by Vince Gill. The song was originally recorded by Merle Haggard in 1970 and later covered by Gill in 2012. The lyrics express a strong sense of patriotism and defense of one's country. Gill sings about people who criticize and complain about the way of life and the wars fought by the country. He acknowledges that people have the right to switch sides and stand up for what they believe in, but when they run down their own country, they are essentially opposing the fight and sacrifice of the men and women who have fought to maintain the country's freedom. The song also addresses individuals who claim not to believe in fighting and question the necessity of conflict. Gill wonders how long the rest of the population can rely on their own freedoms if there isn't a willingness to protect and defend the country. He points out that these individuals enjoy the privileges and benefits of living in their country but advocate for a different way of life. Gill believes that this is their freedom of speech but emphasizes that it places them on the "fightin' side" of the country. "The Fightin' Side of Me" serves as a patriotic anthem, asserting that loving and defending one's country is essential. It warns those who criticize or disrespect their country that they are walking on the "fightin' side" and suggests that if they don't appreciate their country, they should leave it.
