George Strait, often hailed as the “King of Country,” has a career spanning over four decades, with a catalog of hits that have defined an era and set the standard for the genre. From heartfelt ballads to toe-tapping anthems, Strait’s music has captured the hearts of millions, earning him a legacy that few in country music can rival. His unique ability to tell relatable stories through song, combined with his smooth, unmistakable voice, has made him a household name not just in Texas, but across the globe.
In this article, we’re diving into the top 10 most popular George Strait songs of all time—tracks that have not only topped the charts but have also stood the test of time, becoming anthems of love, heartache, and the simple joys of life. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to his music, these songs are the perfect showcase of why George Strait remains a towering figure in country music. So, saddle up and get ready to take a musical journey through the best of George Strait’s legendary career!
1. “Amarillo by Morning” (1983)
“Amarillo by Morning” is a quintessential George Strait song that captures the rugged spirit of the American West. Released in 1983 as part of his album Strait from the Heart, this song quickly became one of Strait’s signature hits. The track tells the story of a resilient rodeo cowboy who endures the hardships of life on the road, always keeping his sights set on the next town and the next rodeo. With its haunting fiddle and Strait’s smooth vocals, “Amarillo by Morning” paints a vivid picture of a man undeterred by life’s challenges. The song’s timeless appeal lies in its simplicity and the authenticity of its storytelling, making it a cornerstone of Strait’s illustrious career.
2. “Check Yes or No” (1995)
Released in 1995 as part of the Strait Out of the Box compilation, “Check Yes or No” is a nostalgic love story that struck a chord with audiences everywhere. The song narrates the sweet tale of a childhood romance that blossoms into lifelong love, starting with a simple note passed in class. Strait’s warm, relatable delivery and the catchy melody made this track an instant favorite. The song’s charm lies in its innocence and the universal appeal of young love, which resonates with listeners of all ages. “Check Yes or No” became a massive hit, further solidifying George Strait’s reputation as a master of storytelling through song.
3. “The Chair” (1985)
“The Chair,” released in 1985 on the album Something Special, is a masterpiece of conversational songwriting. The song unfolds as a casual, flirtatious dialogue at a bar, where the protagonist charmingly strikes up a conversation with a stranger by pretending to have mistaken her chair for his. With its laid-back tone and clever lyrics, “The Chair” showcases Strait’s ability to deliver a story with subtlety and wit. The song became one of his most beloved tracks, not only for its narrative but also for its smooth melody and Strait’s effortless charm. It’s a perfect example of how Strait can turn a simple concept into a memorable country hit.
4. “I Cross My Heart” (1992)
“I Cross My Heart” was released in 1992 as part of the Pure Country soundtrack, and it quickly became one of George Strait’s most iconic love songs. The track is a heartfelt declaration of unwavering love, with lyrics that promise eternal devotion. Strait’s sincere delivery, paired with the lush instrumentation, made this song an instant classic. It was a pivotal track in the Pure Country movie, underscoring the film’s romantic storyline and connecting deeply with fans. “I Cross My Heart” remains a wedding favorite and a timeless anthem of love, showcasing Strait’s ability to convey deep emotion with simplicity and grace.
5. “All My Ex’s Live in Texas” (1987)
Released in 1987 as part of the album Ocean Front Property, “All My Ex’s Live in Texas” is a playful, tongue-in-cheek anthem that became a massive hit for George Strait. The song humorously tells the story of a man whose numerous exes have all settled in Texas, prompting him to flee to Tennessee. The upbeat melody, coupled with clever lyrics and Strait’s charismatic delivery, made this track an instant favorite among fans. The song’s lightheartedness and catchy chorus have made it a staple in Strait’s live performances and a beloved classic in country music.
6. “Ocean Front Property” (1986)
The title track of his 1986 album, “Ocean Front Property,” is a clever play on words and emotions. In this hit, Strait presents a narrative of a man trying to convince himself that he’s over his former lover, but the irony is clear—he’s anything but. The chorus, with its famous line, “I’ve got some ocean front property in Arizona,” perfectly captures the song’s blend of humor and heartbreak. Strait’s delivery is both convincing and endearing, making listeners feel the underlying sorrow masked by bravado. The song’s success helped make the Ocean Front Property album a major milestone in Strait’s career, further cementing his status as a country music legend.
7. “Write This Down” (1999)
“Write This Down,” released in 1999 on the album Always Never the Same, is a passionate plea from a man to his lover, urging her to remember how much he loves her. The song’s catchy chorus and heartfelt lyrics made it an instant hit, resonating with anyone who has ever felt the need to remind their significant other of their love. Strait’s straightforward delivery and the song’s memorable hook helped it climb the charts, becoming one of his many chart-topping hits. “Write This Down” is a testament to Strait’s ability to capture the essence of love and devotion in a way that feels both timeless and personal.
8. “Troubadour” (2008)
Released in 2008 as part of the album of the same name, “Troubadour” is a reflective song that looks back on the life of a musician who has spent years on the road. The song’s lyrics speak to the passage of time and the enduring love for music that keeps the troubadour going, despite the inevitable changes that come with age. Strait’s delivery is poignant and sincere, making “Troubadour” a deeply personal track that resonated with fans and critics alike. The song’s introspective nature and its celebration of the artist’s journey made it a standout in Strait’s later career, proving that his storytelling prowess had only deepened with time.
9. “Carried Away” (1996)
“Carried Away,” released in 1996 on the album Blue Clear Sky, is a song that perfectly captures the feeling of being swept off your feet by love. The track’s gentle melody and heartfelt lyrics describe the overwhelming emotions that come with falling deeply in love. Strait’s smooth vocal delivery adds an additional layer of sincerity and warmth to the song, making it a favorite among his fans. “Carried Away” topped the charts, showcasing Strait’s continued ability to connect with listeners through songs that speak to universal experiences. It’s a beautiful reminder of why George Strait is often called the “King of Country.”
10. “Love Without End, Amen” (1990)
Released in 1990 on the album Livin’ It Up, “Love Without End, Amen” is a touching tribute to the enduring love between a father and son. The song’s narrative explores the unconditional nature of a father’s love, which remains constant no matter what challenges or mistakes his son might face. Strait’s heartfelt delivery and the song’s relatable lyrics resonated strongly with listeners, making it one of his most beloved tracks. “Love Without End, Amen” became Strait’s first multi-week No. 1 hit, solidifying its place as one of the most cherished songs in his extensive catalog. It’s a timeless reminder of the power of familial love and the bonds that never break.