Merle Haggard

Grief, regret and hopelessness are three major themes in this countdown of the most depressing country songs of all time.

The spookiest night of the year has gone country!

In the 1980s, more than ever before, country artists and songwriters were perfecting the art of the story song.

During times of unimaginable loss, these country songs can soothe the soul.

After all, everyone has a story to tell — and country music has a lot to say.

Some of these songs bring the artist's career full-circle, while others tell a haunting story of a life cut short.

They know the heartbreak they sing about.

They were called Young Country then and, appropriately, looked to the radio for inspiration.

The legendary actor and director has a long association with country music.

Including several delinquent youths, at least two singers battling addiction and one jealous rage that ended in murder.