The album 'Kern River' was released in 1985 by Merle Haggard under the Epic Records label, produced by Ray Baker. The title refers to the Kern River in California, a region near Haggard's birthplace in Oildale.
The title track, 'Kern River', became a minor hit on the country charts, peaking at number 10 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles. The lyrics tell a tragic love story set on the river, showcasing Haggard's storytelling ability.
The album received favorable reviews for its traditional sound and quality of compositions, though it did not achieve major commercial impact. It is considered a solid work within Haggard's late 1980s discography.