When you think of country music royalty, one name stands tall above the rest—George Strait. Known as the “King of Country,” Strait has had an unmatched career spanning over four decades, with more than 60 number-one hits under his belt. His signature blend of smooth vocals, timeless lyrics, and authentic Texas charm has cemented his place in the hearts of millions of fans worldwide. From honky-tonk anthems to heartfelt ballads, George Strait’s music speaks to the soul of country, capturing life’s highs and lows with unmatched sincerity.
But which of his songs stand out as the most iconic? Which tracks have defined his incredible legacy and become lasting favorites for generations of country music lovers? In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the top 10 most popular George Strait songs of all time. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to his music, these hits are bound to have you tapping your boots and singing along to the classics that made George Strait a legend. So, cue up the playlist and get ready to immerse yourself in the music of one of country’s greatest storytellers!
1. “Amarillo by Morning” (1983)
Released in 1983 as part of Strait from the Heart, “Amarillo by Morning” stands as one of George Strait’s most beloved songs. The track tells the tale of a rodeo cowboy traveling through the vast, lonely plains of Texas, navigating both the harsh realities of life on the road and the personal sacrifices that come with it. With its melancholy yet hopeful tone, “Amarillo by Morning” captures the raw emotion and grit of a man who has spent a lifetime chasing his dreams, despite the constant isolation and weariness it brings. The evocative fiddle and steel guitar melodies paint the perfect backdrop to the introspective lyrics, drawing listeners into the cowboy’s journey.
What makes this song particularly special is the emotion embedded in Strait’s performance. His smooth, rich vocals bring a sense of authenticity to the story, making it feel personal and relatable. Though the song was never a chart-topping single, it has become an anthem for anyone who has ever felt the pull of the open road, the desire for freedom, or the weight of perseverance. The line “Amarillo by morning, up from San Antone” is ingrained in country music history, a simple yet poignant reflection of the cowboy lifestyle that many people romanticize, yet few truly understand.
“Amarillo by Morning” is a fan favorite that has stood the test of time, cementing its place as a quintessential piece of George Strait’s catalog. Its emotional depth, timeless appeal, and strong narrative continue to resonate with fans, ensuring that it will remain one of his most memorable songs for years to come.
2. “The Chair” (1985)
Released in 1985 on the Something Special album, “The Chair” is a song that epitomizes George Strait’s ability to transform simple moments into iconic country music. The song tells the story of a man approaching a woman in a bar and using a clever, smooth pickup line to strike up a conversation. With its easygoing, conversational lyrics and Strait’s effortlessly charming delivery, “The Chair” is a perfect example of how Strait can weave an entire story with just a few well-placed lines. Written by the legendary songwriting duo Dean Dillon and Hank Cochran, the song is all about the delicate art of flirting and the quiet confidence that comes with it.
What makes this song so endearing is its simplicity. The lyrics don’t try to complicate the situation—they just capture a moment in time: a man sitting down to talk to a woman, sharing a connection over a drink. The beauty lies in the details, as Strait’s voice gently guides the listener through the narrative, never pushing too hard, yet leaving a lasting impression. The music itself complements this laid-back feel, with its gentle steel guitar and soft piano, letting the words and vocals take center stage.
“The Chair” became an instant classic and remains a fan favorite to this day. It’s a perfect example of George Strait’s ability to take an ordinary encounter and turn it into a timeless piece of music that everyone can relate to. Whether you’re at a bar, reminiscing about an old love, or just enjoying the warmth of a new connection, “The Chair” reminds us that sometimes the most powerful moments are the simplest ones.
3. “All My Ex’s Live in Texas” (1987)
“All My Ex’s Live in Texas,” released in 1987 on the Ocean Front Property album, is one of George Strait’s most playful and lighthearted songs. This upbeat, Western swing-influenced track tells the story of a man who, despite his ex-girlfriends being scattered all across Texas, is determined to keep his distance from them. The song’s catchy melody and witty, tongue-in-cheek lyrics make it one of Strait’s most memorable hits, perfectly capturing the playful side of country life. From the opening lines to the chorus, “All My Ex’s Live in Texas” is fun, catchy, and full of charm.
The lyrics play with the notion of running into old flames in a state as vast as Texas, but with an almost comical twist. The protagonist jokes about how his exes are spread out across the Lone Star State, making it difficult to avoid them, yet the song doesn’t take itself too seriously. It’s a tongue-in-cheek reflection on the complexities of past relationships and how, no matter how far you go, some things (and people) are just too big to escape. Strait’s delivery is perfect, balancing humor with just the right amount of sincerity.
The song was a massive commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and becoming a staple in Strait’s live performances. With its infectious energy and lighthearted storytelling, “All My Ex’s Live in Texas” continues to be a fan favorite, embodying the fun, carefree spirit of country music. It’s the perfect anthem for anyone who’s ever tried to outrun their past, only to find it waiting around the corner.
4. “Check Yes or No” (1995)
Released in 1995 on Strait Out of the Box, “Check Yes or No” is a heartwarming and nostalgic love story that has resonated with listeners for decades. The song tells the story of a childhood romance that blooms into lifelong love, capturing the innocence and simplicity of young love. The protagonist reflects on his first crush, recalling the note he passed to his young love, asking her to check “Yes” or “No” to indicate her feelings. The track’s sweetness and simplicity are matched by its infectious melody, making it a perfect representation of young love at its most pure.
What sets “Check Yes or No” apart is its universality. Whether you’ve experienced the awkwardness of passing notes in school or the joy of realizing that your feelings are reciprocated, the song captures that universal moment of youthful hope and excitement. The lyrics, written by Danny Wells and Dana Hunt, perfectly encapsulate the tender emotions of first love, while Strait’s gentle delivery adds a layer of authenticity and warmth. His voice conveys the innocence of the story without ever feeling overly sentimental, making it both relatable and timeless.
“Check Yes or No” quickly became a fan favorite and topped the country charts, a testament to its broad appeal. The song’s nostalgic lyrics and upbeat tempo made it an instant classic, and it remains one of Strait’s most recognizable songs. It’s a timeless reflection on the simplicity of young love, proving that sometimes the most powerful moments come from the simplest of gestures. Whether you’re listening for the first time or revisiting it years later, “Check Yes or No” is sure to bring a smile to your face.
5. “I Cross My Heart” (1992)
“I Cross My Heart,” released in 1992 as part of the Pure Country movie soundtrack, is one of George Strait’s most romantic and heartfelt ballads. The song is a vow of eternal love and devotion, with Strait pledging his commitment to his partner no matter what the future holds. The simple yet profound lyrics, paired with a tender melody, make this track a perfect wedding song and one of Strait’s most iconic love songs. Strait’s delivery is earnest and sincere, making every word feel like a promise.
The song’s beauty lies in its simplicity. There are no grandiose declarations of love or elaborate metaphors; instead, it’s just a man making a promise to the one he loves. The song’s steady pace and gentle instrumentation create a peaceful, romantic atmosphere, and Strait’s vocal performance perfectly complements the intimacy of the message. It’s a song that captures the pure essence of love—steady, unshakeable, and forever.
“I Cross My Heart” became an immediate hit, reaching number one on the country charts and becoming a staple at weddings across the country. Its heartfelt lyrics and emotional depth have made it one of George Strait’s most enduring songs, and it remains a fan favorite for anyone who’s ever wanted to make a promise of eternal love. Whether it’s played during a wedding ceremony or simply shared between two people in love, “I Cross My Heart” is a testament to the power of commitment and the strength of love.
6. “Ocean Front Property” (1987)
Released in 1987 as the title track of George Strait’s Ocean Front Property album, this song is a clever twist on the classic breakup anthem. Strait’s character in the song is trying to convince his ex that he has completely moved on from their relationship, all while offering a series of increasingly ridiculous lies to prove it. The most iconic of these lies is the claim that he owns “oceanfront property in Arizona”—a completely absurd and impossible scenario, much like his assertion that he’s over her. It’s this subtle irony and clever storytelling that makes the song stand out, and its catchy, upbeat melody only enhances its appeal.
The brilliance of “Ocean Front Property” lies in its juxtaposition of light, upbeat music with a song full of tongue-in-cheek sarcasm. While the lyrics are playful, there’s an underlying layer of sadness and bitterness. Strait’s smooth and heartfelt delivery of lines like “I’ve got oceanfront property in Arizona” subtly reveals the truth—he’s still deeply affected by the breakup and is clearly not over it. The clever wordplay and sense of humor make it a perfect example of how George Strait can take a serious emotional topic and present it in a way that is both relatable and enjoyable.
Despite the song’s ironic premise, “Ocean Front Property” became one of Strait’s most successful hits, topping the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. Its memorable hook and entertaining lyrics have kept it as one of his fan favorites throughout the years. The song remains a standout in Strait’s catalog, a perfect blend of humor and heartbreak that continues to charm audiences long after its release.
7. “Give It Away” (2006)
“Give It Away,” released in 2006 as part of the It Just Comes Natural album, marks a poignant moment in George Strait’s career. This track, about the end of a relationship, is a beautiful blend of heartache and emotional wisdom. Strait’s raw vocal performance brings the lyrics to life, with each line conveying the painful realization that, in the end, love is something you can’t hold onto forever. The song’s lyrics speak to the selflessness that often comes with love, even when it’s no longer reciprocated. “Give it away,” Strait sings, emphasizing the theme of letting go and moving on.
The track’s emotional depth resonates with listeners who have experienced the agony of a breakup. Strait’s voice, which has the perfect balance of sadness and strength, invites you into the emotional world of the song’s narrator, who understands that sometimes the best thing you can do for both yourself and the one you love is to let them go. The song’s instrumentation complements its theme beautifully, with soft guitar strumming and a steady rhythm that mirror the quiet resignation of the lyrics.
“Give It Away” was a massive success, becoming Strait’s 41st number-one hit on the country charts. The song’s vulnerability, paired with Strait’s emotional delivery, made it a standout in his later career. Even after decades in the music business, George Strait proved with “Give It Away” that his voice and ability to tell a story had only grown more powerful. The song remains one of his most emotionally charged pieces of work.
8. “Troubadour” (2008)
“Troubadour,” the title track from George Strait’s 2008 album, is a deeply reflective song about the passage of time and the life of a musician. Strait sings about the changes that come with growing older, both in his personal life and in his career, but does so with a sense of pride and gratitude. The song is an ode to the resilience of musicians who continue to follow their passion, regardless of the challenges they face. It also celebrates the way music has been a constant companion in his journey through life.
What makes “Troubadour” so special is its introspective nature. Strait isn’t just singing about his career—he’s reflecting on the entire journey, from his early days to his current status as a country legend. His voice, filled with wisdom and experience, conveys a deep sense of pride in the life he’s led. The song’s gentle melody and thoughtful lyrics create an atmosphere of nostalgia, as Strait acknowledges the inevitable changes that come with age but also celebrates the joy of being able to still do what he loves.
“Troubadour” resonated with fans of all ages, but it particularly struck a chord with those who had been with George Strait throughout his career. The song became a beloved anthem for musicians and fans alike, reminding us all that no matter how many years pass, the passion for music and life’s journey remains unwavering. It’s a testament to the enduring spirit of a troubadour—someone who, no matter what, keeps moving forward with a song in their heart.
9. “Write This Down” (1999)
Released in 1999 on the Always Never the Same album, “Write This Down” is one of George Strait’s most infectious and fun songs. The track is a playful love song where the narrator urges his partner to jot down all the ways he feels about her. It’s a lighthearted yet sincere declaration of love, and Strait’s signature voice adds warmth to every line. The song’s catchy melody and upbeat tempo make it impossible not to tap your feet along to it, and its simple message of love is delivered in the most straightforward yet impactful way.
The lyrics of “Write This Down” are both charming and direct, making it a standout among Strait’s catalog of love songs. “Write this down: I love you,” Strait sings, making the listener feel the genuine affection the character feels for his partner. There’s nothing overly complicated about the song—it’s just a beautiful expression of love in its most pure and uncomplicated form. The music complements this simplicity perfectly, with a toe-tapping rhythm and uplifting instrumentation.
“Write This Down” became an instant hit, topping the country charts and becoming a fan favorite. The song’s charm lies in its straightforwardness, showing that sometimes the most powerful words are the simplest. With its infectious melody, heartfelt lyrics, and Strait’s timeless delivery, it remains one of his most beloved songs, a reminder that love, when expressed sincerely, can be one of life’s greatest joys.
10. “Carrying Your Love with Me” (1997)
Released in 1997 as part of the album of the same name, “Carrying Your Love with Me” is a heartfelt ballad that showcases George Strait’s ability to convey deep emotions through simple yet powerful lyrics. The song tells the story of a man who is separated from his partner, yet finds strength and comfort in the knowledge that her love is always with him, no matter the physical distance. It’s a poignant reflection on the power of love to transcend time and space, and the reassurance that love can provide during difficult times.
Strait’s performance on this track is tender and sincere, perfectly capturing the vulnerability of the song’s protagonist. The lyrics, coupled with the song’s sweeping melody, evoke a sense of longing and devotion that resonates with anyone who has ever had to be apart from someone they love. The gentle instrumentation, with its lush strings and steady rhythm, further enhances the emotional weight of the song.
“Carrying Your Love with Me” became one of George Strait’s most enduring hits, reaching number one on the country charts and earning praise from fans and critics alike. Its themes of love and devotion continue to resonate with audiences, making it a timeless classic. The song’s emotional depth, combined with Strait’s unmistakable vocal delivery, ensures that it remains one of the most beloved tracks in his extensive catalog. Whether you’re far from the one you love or simply reflecting on the power of love in your life, “Carrying Your Love with Me” serves as a beautiful reminder of the strength and endurance of love.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
