George Strait, born May 18, 1952, is an American country music singer, songwriter, and record producer. Known as the “King of Country,” Strait has had a profound impact on the genre, with a career spanning several decades. His traditional country sound, characterized by smooth vocals and a straightforward style, has earned him a reputation as one of country music’s most influential figures.
Strait’s extensive discography includes numerous hits such as “Amarillo by Morning,” “All My Ex’s Live in Texas,” and “Troubadour.” He has received multiple awards, including numerous Country Music Association (CMA) and Academy of Country Music (ACM) awards, and has been recognized for his contributions to the genre. Strait’s ability to blend classic country elements with contemporary influences has helped him maintain a significant presence in country music.
1. Love Without End, Amen
“Love Without End, Amen” is a song by George Strait, released in 1989 as a single from his album *Beyond the Blue Neon*. Written by Aaron Barker, the song is a poignant ballad that tells a touching story about a father’s love and the enduring bond between a parent and child.
The song’s lyrics reflect themes of unconditional love and the passage of time, illustrating how a father’s love remains constant through various life events. “Love Without End, Amen” became one of Strait’s most beloved hits, reaching the top of the country charts and earning critical acclaim for its heartfelt message and Strait’s emotive performance. The track remains a classic in Strait’s extensive catalog and a significant contribution to country music.
2. Ocean Front Property
“Ocean Front Property” is a song by George Strait, released in 1987 as the title track of his album *Ocean Front Property*. The song is a classic example of Strait’s honky-tonk style and features his smooth, baritone voice delivering a poignant story of heartbreak and disillusionment.
Lyrically, “Ocean Front Property” uses the metaphor of selling an oceanfront property to illustrate the narrator’s disbelief and emotional distance from a past relationship. The song combines catchy melodies with a traditional country sound, showcasing Strait’s talent for blending storytelling with memorable tunes. It became a significant hit for George Strait, solidifying his reputation as one of country music’s leading stars.
3. Amarillo By Morning
“Amarillo by Morning” is a classic country song by George Strait, released in 1983 as a single from his album *Strait from the Heart*. Written by Terry Stafford and Paul Fraser, the song is one of Strait’s most iconic hits and showcases his distinctive honky-tonk style.
The lyrics narrate the story of a rodeo cowboy who faces the trials and tribulations of life on the road. The song’s title refers to the town of Amarillo, Texas, and the imagery in the lyrics reflects the hardships and resilience of a rodeo life. With its heartfelt storytelling and Strait’s smooth vocals, “Amarillo by Morning” has become a beloved classic in country music, reflecting the genre’s deep connection to American life and tradition.
4. I Cross My Heart
“I Cross My Heart” is a song by George Strait, released in 1992 as a single from his album *Pure Country*. Written by Steve Dorff and Eric Kaz, the song is a romantic ballad that expresses deep commitment and love.
The lyrics convey a promise of enduring devotion and fidelity, with Strait’s smooth vocals delivering a heartfelt performance. “I Cross My Heart” was featured prominently in the film *Pure Country*, in which Strait starred, adding to the song’s emotional impact. The track became a major hit, reaching the top of the country charts and earning widespread acclaim for its sincere and touching sentiment. It remains one of Strait’s signature songs and a favorite among his fans.
5. Check Yes Or No
“Check Yes or No” is a song by George Strait, released in 1995 as a single from his album *Strait Out of the Box*. Written by Dana Hunt Blackwood and written by Mark Sherrill, the song is a classic example of Strait’s ability to blend traditional country storytelling with a catchy melody.
The lyrics of “Check Yes or No” recount a sweet and nostalgic love story, from childhood crushes to a lasting relationship. The song uses a “check yes or no” note as a metaphor for the simple, heartfelt communication between the narrator and their love interest. With its memorable chorus and Strait’s smooth delivery, “Check Yes or No” became a major hit and remains one of George Strait’s signature songs.
6. Carrying Your Love With Me
“Carrying Your Love with Me” is a song by George Strait, released in 1997 as the title track from his album of the same name. Written by Jim Lauderdale and Donny Kees, the song is a heartfelt ballad that expresses devotion and longing while being apart from a loved one.
The lyrics focus on the theme of carrying the memory and love of a significant other while away, reflecting the strength and constancy of their relationship. “Carrying Your Love with Me” became a major hit, reaching the top of the country charts and earning critical acclaim for its emotional depth and Strait’s expressive performance. The song is a testament to Strait’s ability to convey genuine emotion and remains a beloved track in his extensive catalog.
7. The Chair
“The Chair” is a song by George Strait, released in 1985 as a single from his album *Something Special*. Written by Dean Dillon and Hank Cochran, the song is a classic example of Strait’s smooth, honky-tonk style and storytelling prowess.
The lyrics of “The Chair” depict a romantic encounter in a bar, where the narrator uses the metaphor of a chair to strike up a conversation with someone they’re interested in. The song’s smooth melody and Strait’s effortless vocal delivery capture the charm and simplicity of a genuine, heartfelt connection. “The Chair” became one of George Strait’s most iconic hits, showcasing his ability to blend classic country themes with memorable, engaging music.
8. All My Exs Live In Texas
“All My Ex’s Live in Texas” is a song by George Strait, released in 1987 as a single from his album *Ocean Front Property*. Written by Sanger D. Shafer and Lyndia Shafer, the song is a classic in Strait’s catalog and a notable example of his honky-tonk style.
The lyrics humorously recount a man’s experiences with his former romantic partners, all of whom live in Texas. The song combines a catchy melody with witty and relatable storytelling, reflecting on the protagonist’s past relationships and his subsequent move away from Texas to escape old memories. “All My Ex’s Live in Texas” became a major hit, topping the country charts and solidifying Strait’s reputation as a leading figure in country music.
9. Give It Away
“Give It Away” is a song by George Strait, released in 1990 as the lead single from his album *Livin’ It Up*. Written by Aaron Barker, the song is a poignant ballad that showcases Strait’s smooth country style and heartfelt delivery.
The lyrics of “Give It Away” tell the story of a man who reflects on the emotional costs of a relationship and ultimately decides to give up his possessions and memories associated with it. The song’s themes revolve around love, loss, and the act of letting go. With its reflective tone and Strait’s emotive performance, “Give It Away” became a hit and is remembered as one of his standout tracks.
10. Troubadour
“Troubadour” is a song by George Strait, released in 2008 as the title track of his album *Troubadour*. Written by Leslie Satcher and named after the French term for a traveling musician or poet, the song reflects on Strait’s career and his identity as a country artist.
The lyrics of “Troubadour” celebrate the life of a musician who has traveled far and experienced many aspects of the music world. It conveys a sense of pride and nostalgia, acknowledging the journey of a troubadour and the impact of a lifetime in music. Strait’s smooth delivery and the song’s classic country sound make it a fitting tribute to his enduring legacy in the genre. “Troubadour” received critical acclaim and was well-received by fans, reinforcing George Strait’s status as a country music icon.