11 Underrated George Strait Songs: Gems Revealed

Hey there, music lovers and fellow DJs! It’s TBone here from Level Tunes, and today I’m super excited to share something special with you.

As a DJ and a die-hard music enthusiast, I’ve always had a soft spot for the classics, and who better epitomizes that than the King of Country himself, George Strait?

While we all know his chart-toppers, I’ve dug a little deeper to unearth 11 underrated gems from his vast repertoire. Why? Because these tracks, often overshadowed by his bigger hits, showcase the depth and versatility of Strait’s artistry.

They’re the kind of songs that deserve more spotlight, and I can’t wait to share them with you. So, let’s dive into the world of George Strait’s hidden treasures and experience the magic together!

Here are the underrated George Straitthat you can check out:

List Of Underrated George Strait Songs

Underrated George Strait songs in a list format:

“Amarillo By Morning”

“Amarillo By Morning,” from George Strait’s 1982 album “Strait from the Heart,” is a true testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Written by Terry Stafford and Paul Fraser, this song, released under MCA Records, captures the life of a rodeo cowboy with a simple yet profound elegance. What makes this song stand out is its raw portrayal of the rodeo life, far from the glamour usually associated with it. The fiddle work by Johnny Gimble adds a hauntingly beautiful layer to the track, making it a must-listen for anyone who appreciates the subtleties of country music storytelling.

“The Chair”

Released in 1985 under MCA Records, “The Chair” is a track from the album “Something Special.” Written by Hank Cochran and Dean Dillon, this song is a masterclass in songwriting. It’s a conversation between two strangers in a bar, unfolding into a romantic encounter. The beauty of “The Chair” lies in its simplicity and the way Strait delivers each line with a sense of intimacy and warmth. It’s a song that doesn’t rely on heavy instrumentation but rather on the strength of its lyrics and Strait’s compelling voice, making it a hidden gem in his discography.

“You Look So Good in Love”

From the 1983 album “Right or Wrong,” “You Look So Good in Love” is a poignant ballad that showcases George Strait’s ability to convey deep emotions. Written by Glen Ballard, Rory Bourke, and Kerry Chater, and released under MCA Records, this song tells the story of a man observing the woman he loves, happy with someone else. The song’s heartfelt lyrics, combined with Strait’s emotive delivery, create a bittersweet atmosphere that resonates with anyone who has experienced lost love. The subtle backing vocals and gentle instrumentation further enhance the song’s emotional impact.

“Baby Blue”

“Baby Blue,” from the 1988 album “If You Ain’t Lovin’, You Ain’t Livin’,” is a touching tribute to George Strait’s late niece, Jennifer Strait. Written by Aaron Barker and released under MCA Records, this song’s emotional depth is palpable in every line. Strait’s delivery is filled with a tender, heartfelt sincerity that makes the song deeply personal and universally relatable. The soft, melodic instrumentation complements the vocals perfectly, creating a soothing yet melancholic atmosphere. It’s a song that not only showcases Strait’s emotional range but also his ability to connect with listeners on a profound level.

“I Can Still Make Cheyenne”

From the 1996 album “Blue Clear Sky,” “I Can Still Make Cheyenne” is a narrative masterpiece. Written by Aaron Barker and Erv Woolsey, and released under MCA Records, this song tells the story of a rodeo cowboy’s call to his lover, only to find she’s moved on. The song’s storytelling is vivid and poignant, with Strait’s voice conveying the weariness and acceptance of a life on the road. The song’s traditional country instrumentation, including steel guitar and fiddle, adds to its authentic Western feel. It’s a track that exemplifies Strait’s storytelling prowess and his deep connection to the cowboy lifestyle.

“The Cowboy Rides Away”

“The Cowboy Rides Away,” from the 1984 album “Does Fort Worth Ever Cross Your Mind,” is a classic farewell anthem. Written by Sonny Throckmorton and Casey Kelly, and released under MCA Records, this song is a metaphor for endings and new beginnings. Strait’s delivery is both reflective and resolute, embodying the spirit of a cowboy facing change. The song’s arrangement, with its traditional country instrumentation, complements the narrative beautifully. It’s a poignant reminder of the transient nature of life and love, making it a standout track in Strait’s catalog.

“Ocean Front Property”

Featured on the 1987 album of the same name, “Ocean Front Property” is a clever take on heartbreak and denial. Written by Dean Dillon, Hank Cochran, and Royce Porter, and released under MCA Records, this song uses witty lyrics to convey a message of lost love. Strait’s playful delivery and the upbeat tempo contrast with the song’s underlying sadness, showcasing his ability to blend different emotional layers in his music. The song’s catchy chorus and memorable melody make it an underrated yet essential George Strait track.

“Love Without End, Amen”

“Love Without End, Amen,” from the 1990 album “Livin’ It Up,” is a heartfelt ode to unconditional love. Written by Aaron Barker and released under MCA Records, this song explores the enduring love of a father for his son. Strait’s warm, comforting vocals bring the story to life, creating a sense of intimacy and understanding. The song’s gentle melody and soothing rhythm add to its tender atmosphere. It’s a track that not only highlights Strait’s vocal talents but also his ability to convey deep, universal truths through his music.

“Lead On”

The title track of his 1994 album, “Lead On,” is a subtle yet powerful song about moving forward in the face of uncertainty. Written by Dean Dillon and Teddy Gentry, and released under MCA Records, this song features Strait’s smooth vocals against a backdrop of understated instrumentation. The song’s message of resilience and hope, combined with its melodic flow, makes it a standout track. It’s a testament to Strait’s ability to inspire and uplift through his music, making “Lead On” a hidden gem in his discography.

“Carrying Your Love With Me”

From the 1997 album “Carrying Your Love With Me,” this song is a testament to the power of love’s endurance. Written by Steve Bogard and Jeff Stevens, and released under MCA Records, it’s a heartwarming track that speaks to the strength and comfort love provides, no matter the distance. Strait’s delivery is both sincere and uplifting, perfectly capturing the essence of the song’s message. The blend of traditional country sounds with a modern twist makes it a unique and memorable part of Strait’s collection.

“Troubadour”

“Troubadour,” from the 2008 album of the same name, is a reflective piece that looks back on a life filled with music and memories. Written by Monty Holmes and Leslie Satcher, and released under MCA Nashville, this song resonates with anyone who’s ever pondered their own legacy. Strait’s voice, seasoned yet vibrant, perfectly encapsulates the spirit of a lifelong musician who still has more to share. The song’s mix of traditional and contemporary country elements showcases Strait’s ability to evolve with the genre while staying true to his roots. It’s a poignant reminder of why George Strait remains a timeless figure in country music.

Fun Facts: Underrated George Strait Songs

“Amarillo By Morning”

• Rodeo Inspiration: “Amarillo By Morning” was inspired by the life of a rodeo cowboy, a theme not commonly explored in mainstream country music at the time. This unique perspective helped the song stand out and resonate with fans who appreciated the authentic portrayal of rodeo culture.
• Cover Song: Interestingly, George Strait’s version is actually a cover. The song was originally recorded by its co-writer, Terry Stafford, in 1973. Strait’s rendition, however, is the one that soared in popularity and became a country classic.

“The Chair”

• Songwriting Genius: “The Chair” is a prime example of the songwriting prowess of Hank Cochran and Dean Dillon. The song was famously written in just 20 minutes, showcasing the natural chemistry and talent of its writers.
• Unique Narrative Style: The song stands out for its narrative style, which is more like a dialogue. It’s a unique approach in country music, where the story unfolds through an imagined conversation rather than traditional storytelling.

“You Look So Good in Love”

• Emotional Depth: This song is known for its emotional depth, capturing the heartache of seeing a former love happy with someone else. It’s a sentiment that many can relate to, making the song a fan favorite for its relatability and raw emotion.
• Chart Success: “You Look So Good in Love” was a major hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, further cementing George Strait’s status as a country music icon.

“Baby Blue”

• Personal Connection: “Baby Blue” was written in memory of Strait’s late niece, Jennifer Strait. This personal connection adds a layer of depth and sincerity to the song, making it one of the most emotionally charged in his repertoire.
• Fan Favorite: Despite not being as commercially successful as some of his other hits, “Baby Blue” has remained a fan favorite due to its heartfelt lyrics and Strait’s emotive performance.

“I Can Still Make Cheyenne”

• Rodeo Theme Revisited: Like “Amarillo By Morning,” this song revisits the theme of the rodeo life. It’s a nod to Strait’s consistent appreciation and representation of this aspect of Western culture in his music.
• Storytelling Excellence: The song is praised for its storytelling, painting a vivid picture of the life of a rodeo cowboy and the personal sacrifices involved. It’s a testament to Strait’s ability to tell compelling stories through his music.

“The Cowboy Rides Away”

• End of an Era: The song has taken on a symbolic meaning for George Strait, especially during his farewell tour, aptly named “The Cowboy Rides Away Tour.” It marked the end of his touring days, adding a layer of nostalgia and significance to the song.
• Timeless Appeal: Despite being released in the 1980s, “The Cowboy Rides Away” has remained a timeless piece in Strait’s catalog, often used to close his concerts.

“Ocean Front Property”

• Humorous Twist: Known for its humorous twist on heartbreak, “Ocean Front Property” showcases Strait’s ability to infuse humor into his music, a quality that endears him to fans.
• Chart-Topping Hit: The song was immensely successful, reaching number one on the Billboard Country charts. Its catchy tune and witty lyrics made it a standout track in Strait’s career.

“Love Without End, Amen”

• Universal Theme: The song’s theme of unconditional love, especially from a father’s perspective, has struck a chord with audiences worldwide. It’s a universal message that transcends cultural boundaries.
• Longevity on Charts: “Love Without End, Amen” spent five weeks at number one on the Billboard Country charts, making it one of Strait’s most enduring hits.

“Lead On”

• Subtle Strength: “Lead On” is often praised for its subtlety and emotional strength. It’s a song that doesn’t overpower but rather gently resonates with its message of resilience and hope.
• Reflective Tone: The reflective tone of this song is a departure from the more upbeat tracks in Strait’s catalog, showcasing his versatility as an artist.

“Carrying Your Love With Me”

• Romantic Favorite: This song is a favorite among fans for its romantic lyrics and heartfelt delivery. It’s often considered one of Strait’s most endearing love songs.
• Award-Winning: “Carrying Your Love With Me” won the Academy of Country Music Award for Album of the Year, highlighting its impact and popularity.

“Troubadour”

• Reflective of Strait’s Career: “Troubadour” is reflective of Strait’s own journey in the music industry, adding a personal touch that fans deeply appreciate.
• Later Career Hit: Despite being released later in his career, “Troubadour” became a hit, proving that Strait’s appeal spans across decades and generations.

And there you have it, folks! A journey through the lesser-known tracks of George Strait’s illustrious career. Each song carries a unique story, an emotional depth, and a piece of Strait’s heart. I hope this list rekindles your love for country music and introduces you to some new Strait favorites. Keep on listening!

Thanks for reading.

TBone