George Strait is a name that is synonymous with country music. As one of the most iconic and influential figures in the genre, Strait has been a mainstay of the country music scene for over four decades, amassing an impressive collection of hits and chart-toppers along the way. From his debut single in 1981 to his farewell tour in 2014, Strait has consistently delivered timeless and classic country tunes that have resonated with generations of fans.
In this article, we will take a look at the top 20 best George Strait songs of all time. From his early classics like “Amarillo By Morning” and “All My Ex’s Live in Texas” to his later hits like “Give It Away” and “I Saw God Today,” we will explore the breadth and depth of Strait’s catalog, celebrating the songs that have made him one of the most beloved and celebrated artists in the history of country music. Whether you’re a die-hard Strait fan or a newcomer to his music, this list is sure to highlight the best of the best when it comes to the King of Country.
1. “Cold Beer Conversation”
“Cold Beer Conversation” is a country song by George Strait that captures the essence of laid-back conversations with friends over a cold drink. The easygoing melody and catchy lyrics take listeners on a nostalgic journey down memory lane, reminiscing about old times and the simple pleasures of life. Strait’s smooth vocals and the warm twang of the guitar perfectly complement the song’s relaxed vibe, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. The song is a tribute to the joys of friendship, good times, and the refreshing taste of an ice-cold beer, making it a must-listen for country music lovers and anyone who appreciates a good conversation.
2. “True”
“True” is a song by British pop band Spandau Ballet that was released in 1983. The song’s memorable melody and lyrics explore the complexities of love and relationships. The soaring chorus and lush instrumentation give the track a timeless quality that has made it a classic of the era. Lead singer Tony Hadley’s emotive vocals convey a sense of vulnerability and honesty that add to the song’s emotional impact. “True” has become a beloved staple of 80s pop music, and its influence can still be heard in modern music today. With its romantic lyrics and memorable hook, “True” is a must-listen for fans of 80s music and pop ballads.
3. “The Best Day”
“The Best Day” is a classic country ballad by George Strait that celebrates the joys of family and simple pleasures in life. The song tells the story of a father reflecting on his memories of spending time with his son, from fishing trips and baseball games to driving him to school and watching him grow up. The gentle melody, backed by acoustic guitar and fiddle, captures the nostalgic and sentimental tone of the lyrics. With its heartfelt message of love and appreciation for the little moments that make life worth living, “The Best Day” has become a beloved anthem for fathers and families everywhere.
4. “Murder on Music Row”
“Murder on Music Row” is a song by George Strait and Alan Jackson that was released in 2000. The song addresses the changes in the country music industry and the perceived decline of traditional country music in favor of more mainstream, pop-influenced sounds. The lyrics describe the “murder” of traditional country music and the frustration felt by fans of the genre. The mournful melody and melancholy vocals perfectly capture the sadness and disappointment expressed in the song’s lyrics. “Murder on Music Row” is a powerful critique of the direction of country music and a testament to the importance of preserving the roots of the genre.
5. “Write This Down”
“Write This Down” is a country song by American singer and songwriter George Strait. Released in 1999, the song is a catchy, upbeat track that celebrates the power of love and the importance of communication in a relationship. The song’s memorable melody, twangy guitar riffs, and Strait’s smooth vocals make it a classic of the genre. The lyrics, which encourage listeners to write down important thoughts and feelings in order to remember them, are a poignant reminder of the value of open communication and expressing one’s emotions. “Write This Down” is a must-listen for fans of country music and anyone who appreciates a good love song.
6. “The Chair”
“The Chair” is a classic country song by American singer George Strait that was released in 1985. The song’s memorable melody, twangy guitar riffs, and Strait’s smooth vocals make it an instant classic of the genre. The lyrics tell the story of a man who meets a woman at a bar and strikes up a conversation with her. Despite their flirtation, she leaves before he can get her phone number, leaving him to regret not seizing the opportunity. The song’s relatable lyrics and infectious melody have made it a favorite of country music fans for decades, and its impact can still be heard in modern country music today. “The Chair” is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates the timeless appeal of classic country music.
7. “She’ll Leave You With a Smile”
“She’ll Leave You With a Smile” is a country song by American singer George Strait that was released in 2002. The song tells the story of a man who falls in love with a woman who is only passing through town. Despite knowing that she will eventually leave, he falls head over heels for her and cherishes every moment they spend together. The song’s gentle melody and Strait’s smooth vocals create a wistful and romantic atmosphere that captures the longing and bittersweet emotions expressed in the lyrics. “She’ll Leave You With a Smile” is a beautiful and heartfelt tribute to the power of love and the fleeting nature of life.
8. “Wrapped”
“Wrapped” is a country song by American singer George Strait that was released in 1998. The song is an upbeat and catchy track that celebrates the power of love and the joy that it can bring to a person’s life. The song’s catchy melody and Strait’s smooth vocals create an infectious and uplifting atmosphere that perfectly captures the optimistic and joyful spirit of the lyrics. “Wrapped” is a must-listen for fans of country music and anyone who appreciates a good love song.
9. “Blue Clear Sky”
“Blue Clear Sky” is a classic country song by American singer George Strait that was released in 1996. The song’s lively melody and twangy guitar riffs perfectly capture the upbeat and carefree spirit of the lyrics. The song tells the story of a man who has been hurt in the past but is ready to move on and embrace the future with optimism and hope. Strait’s smooth vocals and the song’s infectious rhythm make it a beloved staple of the genre and a must-listen for fans of classic country music.
10. “Amarillo by Morning”
“Amarillo by Morning” is a classic country song by American singer George Strait that was released in 1983. The song’s memorable melody, twangy guitar riffs, and Strait’s smooth vocals make it an instant classic of the genre. The lyrics tell the story of a rodeo cowboy who travels the country in search of fame and fortune, always moving on to the next rodeo. The song’s melancholy tone and poignant lyrics perfectly capture the loneliness and uncertainty that comes with life on the road. “Amarillo by Morning” is a timeless masterpiece of country music and a must-listen for fans of the genre.
11. “Love Without End, Amen”
“Love Without End, Amen” is a heartwarming country song by American singer George Strait that was released in 1990. The song tells the story of a father giving advice to his son about the ups and downs of life and the enduring power of love. The song’s gentle melody and Strait’s smooth vocals create a warm and comforting atmosphere that perfectly captures the love and wisdom expressed in the lyrics. The song’s message of unconditional love and acceptance has resonated with listeners for decades, making it a beloved classic of the genre. “Love Without End, Amen” is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates the power of family and the importance of love in our lives.
12. “You Look So Good in Love”
“You Look So Good in Love” is a classic country song by American singer George Strait that was released in 1983. The song’s lively melody, twangy guitar riffs, and Strait’s smooth vocals create an upbeat and celebratory atmosphere that perfectly captures the joyful spirit of the lyrics. The song tells the story of a man who has found the love of his life and can’t help but be amazed by how good she looks. The song’s catchy chorus and infectious rhythm have made it a beloved staple of country music for decades. “You Look So Good in Love” is a must-listen for fans of classic country music and anyone who appreciates a good love song.
13. “All My Ex’s Live in Texas”
“All My Ex’s Live in Texas” is a classic country song by American singer George Strait that was released in 1987. The song’s catchy melody, twangy guitar riffs, and Strait’s smooth vocals create a lighthearted and playful atmosphere that perfectly captures the humorous spirit of the lyrics. The song tells the story of a man who has had many ex-lovers across the country, but for some reason, they all seem to congregate in Texas. The song has become a beloved staple of country music and a must-listen for fans of the genre.
14. “Give It Away”
“Give It Away” is a powerful country song by American singer George Strait that was released in 2006. The song’s raw emotion, heartfelt lyrics, and Strait’s smooth vocals create a haunting and soulful atmosphere that perfectly captures the pain and heartbreak expressed in the song. The song tells the story of a man who is struggling to come to terms with a failed relationship and decides to give away all the things that remind him of his former lover. “Give It Away” is a must-listen for anyone who has ever experienced heartbreak and the healing power of letting go.
15. “I Cross My Heart”
“I Cross My Heart” is a romantic country ballad by American singer George Strait that was released in 1992. The song’s gentle melody, heartfelt lyrics, and Strait’s smooth vocals create a tender and romantic atmosphere that perfectly captures the depth of emotion expressed in the lyrics. The song tells the story of a man who is deeply in love with his partner and promises to love her forever. The song’s message of commitment and devotion has resonated with audiences for decades, making it a beloved classic of the genre. “I Cross My Heart” is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates a good love song and the power of true love.
16. “Carried Away”
“Carried Away” is a lively country song by American singer George Strait that was released in 1996. The song’s upbeat melody, catchy guitar riffs, and Strait’s smooth vocals create an energetic and joyful atmosphere that perfectly captures the carefree spirit of the lyrics. The song tells the story of a man who is so in love with his partner that he can’t help but get “carried away” by his feelings. The song has become a popular hit among country music fans and is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates a good love song.
17. “Ocean Front Property”
“Ocean Front Property” is a classic country song by American singer George Strait that was released in 1987. The song’s lively melody, twangy guitar riffs, and Strait’s smooth vocals create a lighthearted and playful atmosphere that perfectly captures the humorous spirit of the lyrics. The song tells the story of a man who tells his former lover that he has “oceanfront property in Arizona” to make her jealous and show her that he’s moving on. The song’s catchy chorus and infectious rhythm have made it a beloved staple of country music for decades. “Ocean Front Property” is a must-listen for fans of classic country music and anyone who appreciates a good joke.
18. “I Saw God Today”
“I Saw God Today” is a poignant country ballad by American singer George Strait that was released in 2008. The song’s gentle melody, heartfelt lyrics, and Strait’s emotive vocals create a powerful and emotional atmosphere that perfectly captures the wonder and beauty of everyday life. The song tells the story of a man who sees God’s handiwork all around him – in a baby’s first cry, a lover’s embrace, and a rainbow after a storm. The song’s message of finding beauty in the ordinary has resonated with audiences and made it a beloved classic of the genre. “I Saw God Today” is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates the simple joys of life and the power of faith.
19. “Carrying Your Love With Me”
“Carrying Your Love With Me” is a classic country love song by American singer George Strait that was released in 1997. The song’s sweet melody, gentle guitar riffs, and Strait’s smooth vocals create a romantic and heartfelt atmosphere that perfectly captures the tenderness of the lyrics. The song tells the story of a man who is leaving home to pursue his dreams, but he’s carrying his love with him wherever he goes. The song’s message of enduring love has resonated with audiences and made it a beloved staple of country music. “Carrying Your Love With Me” is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates a good love song and the power of true love.
20. “Check Yes or No”
“Check Yes or No” is a classic country song by American singer George Strait that was released in 1995. The song’s upbeat melody, catchy guitar riffs, and Strait’s signature vocals create a fun and lighthearted atmosphere that perfectly captures the innocence of young love. The song tells the story of a boy and a girl who pass love notes in class, and the boy asks the girl to check “yes” or “no” to let him know if she feels the same way. The song’s nostalgic lyrics and playful tone have made it a fan favorite and a timeless classic of the genre. “Check Yes or No” is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates the joys of young love and the innocence of childhood.
Darren Jamison 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.
