The album 'My Love Affair with Trains' was released in 1976 by Capitol Records, produced by Fuzzy Owen. It is a concept album dedicated to railroads, a recurring theme in country music and in Merle Haggard's life, who grew up near train tracks in California.
The record includes original songs by Haggard and covers of railroad classics such as 'The Wabash Cannonball'. Although not one of his best-selling albums, it reached number 20 on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart.
Recording took place at Capitol Studios in Hollywood, California, with session musicians from Nashville and Bakersfield. The album reflects Haggard's fascination with trains, which symbolized freedom and escape in his youth.