When it comes to country music royalty, few artists shine as brightly as George Strait. Known as “The King of Country,” Strait has built a legendary career spanning over four decades, with an astonishing catalog of chart-topping hits, timeless ballads, and honky-tonk anthems. With his smooth baritone, signature cowboy hat, and unparalleled storytelling, George Strait has captured the hearts of millions of fans around the world and redefined what it means to be a country music icon.
From heart-wrenching tales of love and loss to songs that make you want to dance the night away, Strait’s music transcends generations and continues to inspire both die-hard fans and newcomers alike. With over 60 No. 1 singles and more than 100 million records sold, his influence on the genre is nothing short of extraordinary. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering his music, this list of George Strait’s Top 10 Most Popular Songs of All Time is a celebration of his greatest hits and unforgettable moments.
Get ready to dive into the melodies and lyrics that define the King of Country’s legacy. These are the songs that have stood the test of time and will forever hold a special place in the heart of country music lovers everywhere.
1. Amarillo by Morning (1983)
“Amarillo by Morning” is one of George Strait’s most beloved songs, capturing the heart of country music with its story of resilience, sacrifice, and the cowboy way of life. Released in 1983 as part of his album Strait from the Heart, this song paints a vivid picture of a rodeo cowboy who endures hardships, broken bones, and empty pockets, yet remains committed to his passion.
From the haunting fiddle intro to Strait’s emotive, understated vocals, the song embodies the loneliness and unwavering spirit of the rodeo lifestyle. Written by Terry Stafford and Paul Fraser, “Amarillo by Morning” wasn’t an immediate chart-topper, but over time, it has become one of the most cherished tracks in country music history.
The lyrics depict a man who has lost material possessions—“I ain’t got a dime, but what I got is mine”—but refuses to let those setbacks define him. His love for the open road and the rodeo circuit keeps him moving forward, with Amarillo symbolizing his next destination and perhaps his next chance at success.
“Amarillo by Morning” stands as a testament to perseverance and passion, making it an anthem for anyone who has ever chased a dream, no matter the cost. Decades later, it remains a staple in George Strait’s live performances and continues to resonate with country fans of all generations.
4. All My Ex’s Live in Texas (1987)
Released in 1987 as part of Ocean Front Property, “All My Ex’s Live in Texas” is one of George Strait’s most playful and instantly recognizable songs. With its lighthearted lyrics and traditional country swing, the track stands out as a fan favorite and a staple in Strait’s live performances.
The song tells the amusing tale of a man who finds himself exiled to Tennessee because all his former lovers still reside in Texas. With a mix of regret and humor, he reflects on his past relationships, name-dropping places like Abilene, Temple, and Galveston, where each of his ex-girlfriends still lingers. The narrator suggests that, despite these failed romances, he’d still prefer to be back in Texas—if only it weren’t for the trouble waiting for him there.
Strait’s smooth, easygoing delivery perfectly complements the song’s whimsical nature, while the twangy steel guitar and upbeat melody keep the track firmly rooted in classic country tradition. Written by Sanger D. Shafer and Linda Shafer, the song became a No. 1 hit on the country charts and remains one of Strait’s signature songs.
Decades later, “All My Ex’s Live in Texas” continues to bring smiles to fans, proving that country music doesn’t always have to be about heartbreak—it can also be about having a little fun with it.
5. I Cross My Heart (1992)
Few country love songs are as timeless and romantic as “I Cross My Heart.” Released in 1992 as part of the Pure Country soundtrack, this heartfelt ballad became an instant classic and one of George Strait’s most cherished songs.
With its tender lyrics and sweeping melody, “I Cross My Heart” is a declaration of deep, unwavering love. The narrator promises to be faithful and true for a lifetime, making the song a popular choice for weddings, anniversaries, and romantic occasions. Strait’s warm, emotive vocals bring sincerity to every line, reinforcing the song’s heartfelt message.
Musically, the track features lush instrumentation, blending traditional country elements with soft, soaring strings that give it a cinematic feel. The song perfectly complemented the themes of Pure Country, a film in which Strait played a country singer struggling to stay true to his roots.
Written by Steve Dorff and Eric Kaz, “I Cross My Heart” reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and has remained one of the most beloved love songs in country music history. More than 30 years after its release, it still holds a special place in the hearts of country fans, reminding listeners of the power of a simple, heartfelt promise.
2. Check Yes or No (1995)
“Check Yes or No” is a sweet, nostalgic love story that has become one of George Strait’s most enduring and recognizable hits. Released in 1995 as part of his Strait Out of the Box collection, the song takes listeners on a journey through a lifelong romance that begins with an innocent childhood note.
The lyrics tell the story of a young boy passing a note to his crush, asking if she likes him and to “check yes or no.” This simple, innocent moment blossoms into a lifelong love, proving that sometimes the strongest relationships start in the most unexpected ways. Strait’s warm, conversational delivery makes the story feel personal, as if he’s sharing a cherished memory with the listener.
Musically, the song features a bright, upbeat melody with traditional country instrumentation, making it instantly recognizable. The playful, singalong quality of the chorus has made it a favorite at weddings, school dances, and country music gatherings.
Beyond its charm, “Check Yes or No” is a testament to the power of young love and the idea that some things are simply meant to be. Its timeless appeal has kept it in steady rotation on country radio for decades, ensuring that every new generation of listeners falls in love with its wholesome and heartwarming story.
3. The Chair (1985)
Few country songs capture the art of storytelling quite like “The Chair.” Released in 1985 on the album Something Special, this cleverly written ballad unfolds like a conversation between two strangers at a bar, making it one of George Strait’s most unique and captivating songs.
What sets “The Chair” apart is its subtle and ingenious narrative. Instead of following a traditional verse-chorus structure, the lyrics read like dialogue, as a man strikes up a conversation with a woman by saying, “Well, excuse me, but I think you’ve got my chair.” The conversation unfolds naturally, with hints of flirtation, charm, and mystery, leaving listeners hanging on every word.
Strait’s delivery is smooth and effortless, adding to the song’s charm. The instrumentation is understated, allowing the lyrics to shine, and the gentle sway of the melody makes it feel as intimate as the conversation it describes.
Written by Hank Cochran and Dean Dillon, “The Chair” was an instant success and remains one of Strait’s most iconic songs. Its brilliance lies in its simplicity—the entire song is a buildup to the final line, where the listener realizes that the man never actually sat down. It’s a masterclass in storytelling that continues to captivate audiences decades later.
6. Ocean Front Property (1987)
“Ocean Front Property,” the title track of George Strait’s 1987 album, is a clever and deceptively lighthearted breakup song that has become one of his most memorable hits. With its catchy melody and tongue-in-cheek lyrics, the song perfectly showcases Strait’s ability to blend humor with heartbreak.
The lyrics revolve around a man who claims he’s completely over his ex, but the chorus reveals his true feelings with a twist: “I’ve got some oceanfront property in Arizona / If you’ll buy that, I’ll throw the Golden Gate in free.” The irony of the statement—since Arizona is a landlocked state—makes it clear that he’s not as unaffected by the breakup as he pretends to be.
Strait delivers the song with his signature smooth vocals, making the heartache feel almost playful rather than painful. The instrumentation, featuring steel guitar and a classic country shuffle, adds to the song’s easygoing feel. Written by Dean Dillon, Hank Cochran, and Royce Porter, the song became a No. 1 hit and remains one of Strait’s most beloved tracks.
With its mix of clever songwriting, humor, and classic country sound, “Ocean Front Property” has stood the test of time, proving that sometimes the best way to deal with heartbreak is to laugh about it.
7. Write This Down (1999)
“Write This Down” is a sweet and catchy love song that became a major hit for George Strait in 1999. Released on the album Always Never the Same, the song is a heartfelt plea for a partner to remember just how much they are loved.
The lyrics tell the story of a man urging his significant other to write down his words so she never forgets them: “Take my words and read ’em every day / Keep ’em close by, don’t you let ’em fade away.” The simplicity of the message—paired with its sincerity—makes the song instantly relatable.
Musically, “Write This Down” has an upbeat, feel-good melody with a strong country-pop influence, making it one of Strait’s more radio-friendly hits. His warm, effortless delivery makes the song feel personal, as if he’s speaking directly to the listener.
Written by Dana Hunt Black and Kent Robbins, “Write This Down” quickly climbed the charts, becoming Strait’s 35th No. 1 hit on the country charts. The song’s universal theme of expressing love and appreciation has made it a favorite among couples and a frequent request at his concerts.
Decades later, “Write This Down” remains a reminder that sometimes, the simplest declarations of love are the most meaningful.
8. Carrying Your Love with Me (1997)
Released in 1997 as the title track of his album, “Carrying Your Love with Me” is one of George Strait’s most tender and emotionally resonant songs. With its themes of devotion and distance, the song has touched countless fans who have ever been separated from someone they love.
The lyrics describe a man who is always on the move but carries his love with him wherever he goes. Whether traveling across the country or facing life’s challenges, he finds comfort and strength in knowing that his partner’s love is with him. The sentiment is both deeply romantic and relatable, making it a standout in Strait’s extensive catalog.
Strait’s smooth, heartfelt delivery brings an authenticity to the song that makes the emotions feel real. The melody is gentle yet uplifting, featuring classic country instrumentation that perfectly complements the song’s theme. Written by Steve Bogard and Jeff Stevens, “Carrying Your Love with Me” became another No. 1 hit for Strait and earned widespread acclaim.
Even today, the song continues to resonate with listeners, especially those in long-distance relationships or facing time apart from loved ones. It’s a beautiful reminder that true love transcends distance, making “Carrying Your Love with Me” one of Strait’s most enduring ballads.
9. Give It Away (2006)
“Give It Away,” released in 2006 as part of It Just Comes Natural, is one of George Strait’s most powerful breakup songs. Unlike many of his more lighthearted or nostalgic tracks, this song dives deep into the pain of a relationship’s end with raw honesty and a touch of bitterness.
The lyrics tell the story of a man whose partner is so emotionally detached from their breakup that she tells him to “give it away”—referring to everything they once shared, from their furniture to their love. The sense of finality in her words stings, as the narrator realizes that all the memories and meaning they built together are now meaningless to her. The song’s slow, aching melody and Strait’s restrained yet emotional delivery make the heartbreak feel real and poignant.
What makes “Give It Away” unique is its spoken-word verses, which add an extra layer of storytelling. This narrative-driven approach sets the song apart, making it stand out in Strait’s extensive catalog. Written by Bill Anderson, Jamey Johnson, and Buddy Cannon, the song struck a chord with fans and critics alike. It became Strait’s 41st No. 1 hit, breaking Conway Twitty’s record for the most No. 1 singles in country music history at the time.
“Give It Away” is a testament to Strait’s ability to convey deep emotion without over-singing. Its powerful storytelling and haunting melody make it one of the most unforgettable breakup songs in country music.
10. Troubadour (2008)
“Troubadour,” the title track from George Strait’s 2008 album, is a deeply reflective song that looks back on a life spent in music and the lessons learned along the way. Unlike many of his hits about love, breakups, or fun nights out, “Troubadour” is a personal, almost autobiographical piece that resonates with fans who have followed Strait’s legendary career.
The song’s lyrics tell the story of a man who, despite aging, still feels like the same young dreamer who first picked up a guitar. He acknowledges that while he may not be as young as he once was, his passion for life and music remains unchanged. The message is both nostalgic and inspiring, celebrating the journey rather than the destination.
Strait’s smooth, warm vocals bring authenticity to the song, making it feel like a genuine reflection of his own life. The melody is simple yet heartfelt, allowing the lyrics to take center stage. Written by Leslie Satcher and Monty Holmes, “Troubadour” became an instant classic, resonating not just with country fans but with anyone who has ever looked back on their life and the roads they’ve traveled.
Though it never hit No. 1, “Troubadour” remains one of Strait’s most beloved songs, often seen as a defining piece of his legacy. It’s a beautiful reminder that no matter how much time passes, the fire inside us doesn’t have to fade.
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.
