When it comes to country music royalty, few names shine as brightly as George Strait. Known as the “King of Country,” Strait’s career spans over four decades, with a legacy that includes more than 60 number-one singles, countless accolades, and a devoted fanbase that stretches across generations. His smooth voice, heartfelt lyrics, and undeniable charm have made him an icon in the genre and a household name worldwide.
From love ballads that tug at your heartstrings to toe-tapping tunes perfect for a honky-tonk dance floor, George Strait’s music has a timeless quality that resonates with fans both old and new. His songs tell stories of love, heartbreak, resilience, and the beauty of everyday life, capturing the essence of country music at its core.
In this article, we’ll take a journey through Strait’s remarkable discography to highlight his top 10 most popular songs of all time. These tracks aren’t just hits—they’re treasures that have defined country music and left an indelible mark on listeners everywhere. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to his music, get ready to rediscover the magic of George Strait and the unforgettable songs that solidify his legendary status.
1. “Amarillo by Morning” (1983)
“Amarillo by Morning” is one of George Strait’s most iconic songs, perfectly capturing the rugged, nomadic spirit of the rodeo cowboy. Released in 1983 as part of his album Strait from the Heart, the song tells the poignant story of a man who endures hardships and sacrifices while chasing his dreams. Through evocative lyrics, we hear about lost possessions, physical pain, and the loneliness of life on the road, yet there’s no regret in his voice—only a deep, unwavering passion for his way of life.
The song’s instrumentation is just as moving as its lyrics. The sorrowful fiddle intro immediately sets the tone, pulling listeners into the cowboy’s journey, while Strait’s smooth, effortless vocals make the storytelling even more compelling. The blend of traditional country instrumentation with a bittersweet melody creates a song that’s as melancholic as it is inspiring.
Over the years, “Amarillo by Morning” has become a staple of country music, standing the test of time as one of the genre’s most beloved tracks. Its authenticity, emotional weight, and classic country feel have made it a favorite for both longtime fans and new listeners alike. Whether played in a quiet moment of reflection or sung along to at a concert, this song remains a defining piece of George Strait’s legendary career.
2. “Check Yes or No” (1995)
Released in 1995 as part of the album Strait Out of the Box, “Check Yes or No” is a charming, nostalgic love song that resonates with anyone who has experienced young romance. The song tells the sweet and simple story of a childhood crush that blossoms into lifelong love, following a boy who passes a note to a girl asking if she likes him—yes or no. It’s a theme that many listeners can relate to, making the song instantly endearing.
The upbeat, easygoing melody and warm, heartfelt lyrics create a feel-good listening experience. Strait’s signature smooth vocals bring the story to life, perfectly capturing the innocence and excitement of first love. The song’s storytelling is straightforward yet impactful, painting vivid pictures of young love growing into something real and lasting.
“Check Yes or No” became an instant favorite upon release, and its popularity has only grown over time. It remains one of Strait’s most requested songs at concerts, with audiences eagerly singing along to every word. Its universal appeal and timeless message of love make it a standout in his vast catalog, proving that sometimes, the simplest love stories are the most powerful.
3. “The Chair” (1985)
Released in 1985 on the album Something Special, “The Chair” is a masterclass in storytelling and one of George Strait’s most uniquely structured songs. What sets this song apart is its conversational style—there’s no traditional chorus, yet the lyrics unfold like a natural dialogue between two people. The song follows a charming encounter at a bar, where the narrator strikes up a conversation with a woman by cleverly pretending she’s sitting in his chair. From there, he smoothly transitions into playful flirting, ultimately leading to what seems like the start of a new romance.
The beauty of “The Chair” lies in its subtlety. Strait’s smooth, effortless vocals make the interaction feel genuine, while the understated melody allows the lyrics to take center stage. The steel guitar and soft instrumentation create a warm, intimate atmosphere, enhancing the song’s romantic undertones.
Fans were immediately drawn to the song’s clever structure and relatable theme, and it quickly became one of Strait’s signature hits. The track’s conversational charm and laid-back delivery make it one of his most memorable recordings. Over the years, “The Chair” has remained a fan favorite, proving that sometimes, a simple moment between two people can tell an unforgettable story.
4. “I Cross My Heart” (1992)
One of George Strait’s most heartfelt ballads, “I Cross My Heart” was released in 1992 as part of the soundtrack for his film Pure Country. The song is a tender, deeply romantic declaration of lifelong devotion, making it an instant favorite among country fans, especially at weddings and anniversaries.
From the opening chords, “I Cross My Heart” exudes warmth and sincerity. The gentle acoustic guitar and soft piano complement Strait’s rich, expressive vocals, allowing the song’s emotional depth to shine through. The lyrics promise unwavering love and dedication, making it one of the most touching love songs in country music history. The sweeping melody builds beautifully toward the chorus, where Strait delivers the song’s central vow: “I cross my heart and promise to / Give all I’ve got to give to make all your dreams come true.”
The song became an instant classic, not only because of its association with Pure Country but also because of its timeless theme of devotion. It remains one of Strait’s most cherished ballads, often requested by fans and played at countless weddings. Few songs capture the essence of true love as beautifully as this one, making it a defining moment in Strait’s career.
5. “Ocean Front Property” (1987)
The title track of George Strait’s 1987 album, “Ocean Front Property” is a prime example of his ability to mix humor with heartbreak. At first listen, the song appears to be a confident declaration that the narrator has moved on from a past relationship, but as the lyrics unfold, it becomes clear that he’s in deep denial. The clever twist comes in the chorus when he sarcastically claims that if his ex believes he no longer loves her, he also has some “oceanfront property in Arizona” to sell her—a playful way of saying that he’s fooling no one, not even himself.
The song’s upbeat, traditional country arrangement, complete with twangy guitars and an infectious melody, contrasts beautifully with the bittersweet lyrics. Strait’s smooth, charismatic delivery adds to the song’s charm, making it both humorous and relatable.
“Ocean Front Property” became a major hit, topping the country charts and solidifying Strait’s reputation for delivering clever, well-crafted songs. Fans continue to love its witty wordplay and singable chorus, making it a staple of his live performances. It’s a perfect blend of storytelling, humor, and classic country sound—everything that makes George Strait one of the genre’s all-time greats.
6. “All My Ex’s Live in Texas” (1987)
Released in 1987 as part of the Ocean Front Property album, “All My Ex’s Live in Texas” is one of George Strait’s most recognizable and beloved songs. With its lighthearted lyrics and catchy melody, the song tells the story of a man reflecting on his past relationships, all of whom happen to reside in Texas. The humorous twist is that their presence in the Lone Star State has driven him to Tennessee, where he now finds peace—at least, that’s what he claims.
The song’s playful tone is enhanced by its traditional country instrumentation, featuring a lively blend of fiddle, steel guitar, and honky-tonk rhythms. Strait’s signature smooth vocals add charm to the storytelling, making it impossible not to sing along. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of various former flames, giving each one a distinct personality while maintaining the song’s humorous, carefree nature.
Despite its humorous approach, “All My Ex’s Live in Texas” is more than just a novelty hit. It captures the essence of classic country music—storytelling with a clever twist, combined with an irresistible melody. The song quickly became a fan favorite, earning Strait a Grammy nomination and solidifying its place as one of his most iconic tracks. Even decades later, it remains a staple in his live performances, and audiences can’t resist singing every word.
7. “Carrying Your Love with Me” (1997)
A heartfelt ballad about love and longing, “Carrying Your Love with Me” was released in 1997 as the title track of George Strait’s album of the same name. The song beautifully captures the emotions of someone who spends time apart from their loved one but finds comfort in the thought that love transcends distance.
From the opening chords, the song establishes a warm, nostalgic mood, with gentle guitar strumming and soft steel guitar melodies complementing Strait’s soothing voice. The lyrics tell the story of a man constantly on the move, whether for work or personal obligations, yet carrying his partner’s love with him wherever he goes. The sentiment is simple yet profound, making it one of Strait’s most touching love songs.
Strait’s delivery is effortless, yet filled with emotion, making the song incredibly relatable for anyone who has ever been in a long-distance relationship. The combination of heartfelt lyrics and a soaring chorus helped make it one of his most enduring hits. It quickly became a country radio staple and remains one of the most requested songs in his catalog. “Carrying Your Love with Me” is a testament to the power of love and its ability to provide strength and comfort, no matter the miles in between.
8. “Write This Down” (1999)
“Write This Down” was released in 1999 as part of George Strait’s Always Never the Same album, and it quickly became one of his biggest hits. The song takes a unique approach to expressing love, as the narrator urges his significant other to write down his feelings so she never forgets how much he cares.
Built around a melody that’s as catchy as it is heartfelt, “Write This Down” blends traditional country with a more polished, radio-friendly sound. The playful yet sincere lyrics strike a perfect balance between lightheartedness and genuine emotion, making it an instant favorite among fans. The steel guitar accents and classic country instrumentation give the song a timeless feel, while Strait’s smooth delivery makes every word sound effortlessly heartfelt.
The song’s message is simple: love should be cherished and remembered, and sometimes, a little reminder doesn’t hurt. This universal theme helped it top the country charts and become a staple in Strait’s live performances. Whether played at weddings, anniversaries, or just as a romantic dedication, “Write This Down” continues to resonate with audiences, proving that a great love song never goes out of style.
9. “Love Without End, Amen” (1990)
Few country songs capture the essence of unconditional love as powerfully as “Love Without End, Amen.” Released in 1990 on the album Livin’ It Up, this touching ballad tells the story of a father’s love for his son, drawing a parallel to the unwavering love of God. The song’s heartfelt message and warm, soothing melody make it one of George Strait’s most beloved tracks.
The lyrics unfold as a father imparts wisdom to his son after he gets into trouble, reassuring him that a father’s love never fades, no matter what. The song then expands on this theme, revealing that this same lesson applies to a greater, divine love. Strait’s rich, steady vocals bring a deep sincerity to the story, making every word resonate with listeners.
Musically, “Love Without End, Amen” is a perfect blend of classic country instrumentation, with gentle acoustic guitar and steel guitar weaving together to create an emotional backdrop. The song struck a chord with audiences, becoming one of Strait’s longest-running No. 1 hits. It continues to be a favorite among parents and families, often played at graduations, weddings, and even funerals, reminding listeners of the enduring power of love that never fades.
10. “Troubadour” (2008)
Released in 2008 as the title track of his Troubadour album, this song is a reflective and deeply personal piece that captures George Strait’s journey as an artist. The lyrics portray a man who has seen and done it all but remains just as passionate about music and life as he was when he started.
The song’s stripped-down instrumentation allows the lyrics to shine, with acoustic guitar and soft percussion creating a warm, nostalgic feel. Strait’s voice carries a sense of wisdom and experience, making the song feel like a heartfelt confession. 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” encapsulate the idea of an artist who remains true to his craft, no matter how much time passes.
“Troubadour” resonated deeply with fans, especially those who had followed Strait’s career from the beginning. It became more than just a song—it was an anthem for those who dedicate their lives to their passion. The song’s reflective nature and universal message about staying true to oneself have solidified it as one of Strait’s most meaningful and enduring works.
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.
