Few names in country music carry the timeless weight and legendary status of George Strait. With a career spanning over four decades, “The King of Country” has cemented his place in music history with a record-breaking string of chart-topping hits, heartfelt lyrics, and a voice that effortlessly bridges the gap between tradition and modernity. Known for his signature cowboy charm and unparalleled storytelling, Strait has gifted fans with anthems that capture love, heartbreak, resilience, and the beauty of life’s simple moments.
But which of his songs have truly stood the test of time? From boot-stomping honky-tonk classics to tear-jerking ballads, George Strait’s discography is packed with unforgettable tunes that have defined the genre and touched millions of hearts. In this article, we’ll dive into the top 10 most popular George Strait songs of all time—tracks that have not only topped the charts but also become the soundtrack of countless memories for country music fans around the globe. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a newcomer to his music, get ready to take a nostalgic journey through the hits that made George Strait a living legend. Grab your hat and saddle up—this is country music at its finest!
1. Amarillo By Morning (1982)
Few country songs paint a more vivid picture of the cowboy way of life than “Amarillo By Morning.” Released in 1982 on George Strait’s Strait from the Heart album, this song tells the bittersweet story of a rodeo cowboy chasing his dreams, despite the hardships and heartbreak that come with the journey. From its haunting fiddle intro to Strait’s understated yet deeply emotive delivery, every element of the track captures the loneliness, resilience, and restless spirit of a man always on the move.
The lyrics follow a cowboy as he makes his way to Amarillo, reflecting on the sacrifices he has made for his way of life—long nights on the road, physical pain, and financial struggles. Yet despite all this, his love for the rodeo never fades. The song’s melancholic tone, paired with its soaring melody, resonates deeply with listeners who understand the price of chasing dreams.
While “Amarillo By Morning” wasn’t a No. 1 hit upon its release, it has since become one of George Strait’s signature songs, often cited as one of the greatest country tracks of all time. Its enduring legacy continues to captivate audiences, proving that some stories—especially those of perseverance and passion—never go out of style.
2. Check Yes or No (1995)
A love story that starts in childhood and lasts a lifetime—“Check Yes or No” is a song that perfectly captures the innocence and simplicity of young romance. Released in 1995 as part of Strait Out of the Box, this charming country tune became an instant fan favorite, thanks to its catchy melody and heartwarming lyrics.
The song tells the story of a young boy and girl passing notes in school, with the girl asking him to “check yes or no” if he likes her. What begins as an innocent childhood crush blossoms into true love, as the lyrics fast-forward to their adult life, where they are happily married. Strait’s smooth, warm vocals make the song feel nostalgic and deeply personal, evoking memories of first loves and simpler times.
Beyond its romantic appeal, “Check Yes or No” became one of Strait’s most commercially successful songs, topping the country charts and becoming a staple at weddings and anniversaries. Its universal theme of love standing the test of time has made it a timeless classic, proving that sometimes, the best love stories start with a simple note passed in class.
3. The Chair (1985)
With its effortless charm and clever storytelling, “The Chair” stands out as one of George Strait’s most iconic songs. Released in 1985 on the Something Special album, this track takes a simple conversation between two strangers and turns it into an unforgettable musical moment.
Unlike most country love songs, “The Chair” unfolds entirely through dialogue. It begins with a man offering his seat to a woman at a bar, using the excuse that he was “just leaving anyway.” As the conversation progresses, it becomes clear that he has no intention of going anywhere—he just wanted an excuse to talk to her. The song’s final twist is subtle but brilliant: we realize that the man has been using a playful pickup line the whole time.
Strait’s delivery is smooth and inviting, making listeners feel as though they’re eavesdropping on a real-life encounter. The song became a massive hit, proving that sometimes, the most compelling stories are told not through grand declarations of love, but through the little moments that bring two people together.
4. I Cross My Heart (1992)
A wedding favorite and one of George Strait’s most heartfelt ballads, “I Cross My Heart” is the very definition of a timeless love song. Released in 1992 as part of the Pure Country movie soundtrack, the song quickly became an anthem for couples vowing their love and devotion to one another.
The lyrics are a sincere and passionate promise, with Strait singing about his unwavering commitment to his partner. Lines like “I cross my heart and promise to / Give all I’ve got to give to make all your dreams come true” capture the depth of love and dedication in a way that feels deeply personal yet universally relatable. The song’s sweeping melody, combined with Strait’s warm vocals, adds to its emotional impact.
Beyond its success on the charts, “I Cross My Heart” became a cultural staple, frequently played at weddings, anniversaries, and special occasions. It remains one of George Strait’s most beloved songs, proving that when love is expressed so purely, it never goes out of style.
5. All My Ex’s Live in Texas (1987)
With a playful honky-tonk vibe and tongue-in-cheek lyrics, “All My Ex’s Live in Texas” is one of George Strait’s most recognizable hits. Released in 1987 on the Ocean Front Property album, the song is a humorous take on avoiding past relationships by relocating far away—specifically, to Tennessee.
The lyrics list all the women the narrator has left behind in Texas, joking that he had to flee to escape them. While the song is lighthearted and fun, it also showcases Strait’s ability to deliver humor with effortless charm. The twangy instrumentation, complete with steel guitar and fiddle, adds to the classic country feel, making it a staple in dance halls and honky-tonks.
“All My Ex’s Live in Texas” became an instant hit, reaching No. 1 on the country charts and earning a Grammy nomination. Even decades later, it remains a fan favorite, proving that a little humor—and a catchy melody—go a long way in making a song unforgettable.
6. Ocean Front Property (1986)
Few country songs use irony as effectively as “Ocean Front Property.” Released in 1986 as the title track of George Strait’s album, this clever heartbreak song masks sorrow with a catchy melody and humorous wordplay. On the surface, the lyrics sound like a man confidently declaring he’s moved on from a past love. However, as the song progresses, it becomes clear that he’s fooling himself.
The song’s hook—“I’ve got some ocean front property in Arizona / From my front porch, you can see the sea”—is a brilliant metaphor for the narrator’s false claims. Just as Arizona having oceanfront land is an obvious lie, so is the idea that he no longer cares about his lost love. Strait’s smooth, matter-of-fact delivery makes the irony even more effective, creating a song that’s both amusing and deeply relatable.
With its strong traditional country sound, featuring twangy steel guitar and an easygoing rhythm, “Ocean Front Property” became a massive hit, topping the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. To this day, it remains one of Strait’s most beloved songs, proving that sometimes, the best way to express heartbreak is with a little bit of humor.
7. Carrying Your Love With Me (1997)
“Carrying Your Love With Me” is one of George Strait’s most touching love songs, capturing the idea that love transcends distance. Released in 1997 as the title track of his album, this ballad tells the story of a man who, no matter where he goes, carries the love of his significant other in his heart.
The lyrics paint the picture of a traveler who is often far from home but finds strength in the love he holds close. Lines like “On a lonely highway, stuck out in the rain / Darlin’ all I have to do is think of you” emphasize the deep emotional connection that keeps him going. The song’s gentle melody, combined with Strait’s warm and reassuring vocals, makes it feel deeply personal and comforting.
This song quickly became a fan favorite, reaching No. 1 on the country charts. It remains one of Strait’s most enduring hits, resonating with anyone who has ever had to be apart from the person they love. Whether it’s for long-distance couples or those who travel frequently, “Carrying Your Love With Me” is a song that continues to touch hearts.
8. Write This Down (1999)
Playful yet heartfelt, “Write This Down” is a love song with an unforgettable chorus that encourages devotion. Released in 1999 on the Always Never the Same album, this track became one of George Strait’s biggest hits, topping the country charts and becoming a staple in his live performances.
The song’s lyrics tell the story of a man reminding his partner to never forget how much he loves her. He suggests she write it down, take a little note—a charming and lighthearted way of saying that his love is something she should always remember. This clever approach, combined with an upbeat tempo, gives the song a warm and reassuring feel.
Strait’s delivery is effortless, striking the perfect balance between sincerity and playfulness. The melody is catchy, and the lyrics are easy to sing along to, making it one of his most memorable love songs. Even decades after its release, “Write This Down” remains a favorite among country fans, often played at weddings and anniversaries as a reminder that love should always be celebrated and cherished.
9. Give It Away (2006)
“Give It Away” is one of George Strait’s most powerful breakup songs, telling the heartbreaking story of a relationship that has reached its bitter end. Released in 2006 on the It Just Comes Natural album, this song stood out for its unique storytelling approach and emotional depth.
The lyrics depict a man whose partner has not only left him but insists on giving away everything that once held meaning in their relationship—their pictures, their furniture, and their shared memories. While he clings to the past, she’s ready to let go of it all, making the breakup even more painful. The conversational verses, combined with Strait’s subdued yet deeply expressive vocals, create an intimate, almost cinematic experience.
“Give It Away” became a major hit, topping the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and earning the Country Music Association Award for Single of the Year. Its raw honesty and clever narrative structure make it one of Strait’s standout songs, proving that sometimes, the most devastating heartbreaks come not with dramatic fights, but with quiet, emotionless goodbyes.
10. Troubadour (2008)
Few songs capture the essence of a life dedicated to music as well as “Troubadour.” Released in 2008 as the title track of Strait’s album, this song is a reflective look back at a career built on passion, perseverance, and an unwavering love for storytelling through song.
The lyrics paint the picture of a man who, despite growing older, still sees himself as the same young dreamer who once set out to make a name for himself. Lines like “I was a young troubadour when I rode in on a song / And I’ll be an old troubadour when I’m gone” carry a sense of wisdom, humility, and deep appreciation for the journey.
Strait’s delivery is heartfelt and sincere, making the song feel autobiographical. While it’s a personal reflection on his own career, it also resonates with anyone who has pursued their passion over the years. “Troubadour” became an anthem for artists, dreamers, and anyone who refuses to let time diminish their love for what they do.
Though it wasn’t one of Strait’s biggest chart-toppers, “Troubadour” remains one of his most emotionally impactful songs, celebrated for its authenticity and timeless message. It’s a song that reminds us all that while we may age, the fire inside us never has 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.
