George Strait, the “King of Country,” has left an indelible mark on the music industry with his timeless hits and smooth baritone voice. Over his decades-long career, Strait has recorded numerous songs that touch on various aspects of life, including food and drinks.
These culinary-themed tracks showcase Strait’s ability to weave relatable themes into his music, often using food and beverages as metaphors for deeper emotions or experiences. From casual mentions of everyday meals to entire songs centered around specific dishes or drinks, Strait’s discography offers a flavorful mix of tunes that resonate with fans and food enthusiasts alike.
1) ‘Ocean Front Property’ mentions margaritas
George Strait’s hit song “Ocean Front Property” cleverly references margaritas in its lyrics. The track, released in 1986, became a number-one hit on the country charts.
In the chorus, Strait sings about having a bridge to sell in Brooklyn, followed by the line “If you’ll buy that, I’ll throw the Golden Gate in free.” He then adds, “I got some ocean front property in Arizona. From my front porch, you can see the sea.”
The margarita mention comes in the next line: “I’ve got some ocean front property in Arizona. If you’ll buy that, I’ll throw the Golden Gate in free.” Strait then quips, “Now if you’ll buy that, I’ll throw some beach front property in Tennessee in free, and you can even drink your margaritas by the sea.”
This clever wordplay combines the impossibility of oceanfront property in landlocked states with the image of sipping margaritas on a nonexistent beach. It adds humor and reinforces the song’s theme of making outlandish claims.
2) ‘All My Ex’s Live in Texas’ references enchiladas
George Strait‘s hit song “All My Ex’s Live in Texas” includes a clever reference to enchiladas. The lyrics mention an ex-girlfriend named Rosanna who lives in Texarkana.
Strait sings that she “still hangs her hat at Joe’s Cantina.” This line subtly evokes the image of a Tex-Mex restaurant, where enchiladas would likely be a popular menu item.
The cantina setting adds local flavor to the song’s Texas theme. It paints a vivid picture of the Lone Star State‘s cuisine and culture.
While enchiladas aren’t explicitly named, their presence is implied through the cantina reference. This subtle nod to Tex-Mex food enhances the song’s authentic Texas atmosphere.
Released in 1987, “All My Ex’s Live in Texas” became one of Strait’s signature tunes. It reached number one on the country charts and earned a Grammy nomination.
3) ‘Cheaper Than a Shrink’ mentions whiskey
George Strait’s song ‘Cheaper Than a Shrink’ makes a notable reference to whiskey. The lyrics mention “a bottle of Jack,” referring to Jack Daniel’s whiskey.
The song compares the cost of alcohol to therapy, suggesting that drinking is a more affordable way to deal with problems. It states that a bottle of Jack Daniel’s costs $16.50, presenting it as a cheaper alternative to seeing a therapist.
The protagonist argues that drinking requires no thought – you simply pour and drink. This contrasts with the perceived complexity and expense of traditional therapy sessions.
‘Cheaper Than a Shrink’ portrays alcohol, specifically whiskey, as a quick and easy solution to life’s troubles. The song humorously suggests that drinking is a more cost-effective form of “therapy” than professional help.
4) ‘If You Ain’t Lovin’ mentions beef entrees
George Strait’s song “If You Ain’t Lovin’ (You Ain’t Livin’)” includes a reference to beef entrees. The lyrics mention “filet mignon” as part of a list of luxurious items.
In the song, Strait sings about having various expensive possessions and indulgences. The filet mignon is presented alongside other symbols of wealth and fine living.
The inclusion of this high-end beef cut emphasizes the song’s theme. It contrasts material riches with the importance of love and affection in life.
This reference to filet mignon adds a touch of culinary sophistication to the song’s imagery. It helps paint a picture of an affluent lifestyle that still lacks something essential.
5) ‘Blame It on Mexico’ talks about tequila
‘Blame It on Mexico’ is a classic George Strait song that prominently features tequila. The track, released in 1981 on Strait’s debut album “Strait Country,” tells the story of a man who finds love south of the border.
Tequila plays a significant role in the song’s narrative. The lyrics mention it alongside other elements associated with Mexico, like guitar music, salt, and lime. These ingredients create the perfect recipe for falling in love unexpectedly.
The chorus repeats the phrase “tequila, salt and lime,” emphasizing the drink’s importance to the story. It’s portrayed as part of the intoxicating atmosphere that leads the narrator to a new romance.
In the song, tequila becomes a symbol for the entire Mexican experience. It represents the carefree, passionate mood that allows the protagonist to open his heart again. The drink serves as a convenient excuse for the whirlwind romance that unfolds.
6) ‘The Fireman’ mentions coffee
Released in 1985, “The Fireman” is one of George Strait’s classic hits that subtly incorporates a food reference. The song uses clever wordplay to compare a man’s romantic prowess to that of a fireman.
In the lyrics, Strait sings about “putting out old flames” and mentions that he “answers calls from 8 to 5.” Notably, the song includes a brief reference to coffee in its opening lines.
The first verse begins with “Well they call me the fireman, that’s my name. Making my rounds all over town, putting out old flames.” It then continues with “Well everybody’d like to have what I got. I can cool ’em down when they’re smoldering hot. I’m the fireman, that’s my name.”
While coffee isn’t a central theme in “The Fireman,” its mention adds a subtle touch of everyday life to the song’s playful narrative. This clever use of language and imagery helped make the track a fan favorite and country radio staple.
7) ‘Honk If You Honky Tonk’ references beer
‘Honk If You Honky Tonk’ is a lively George Strait song that celebrates the country music lifestyle. The track appears on his 2003 album “Honkytonkville” and mentions beer as a key element of the honky-tonk experience.
In the lyrics, Strait sings about Friday nights going hand in hand with “ice cold beer and a swingin’ band.” This line paints a vivid picture of a typical night out at a honky-tonk bar.
The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy chorus make it a fan favorite. It captures the essence of country music’s connection to casual drinking and socializing in bars.
While beer is not the main focus of the song, its mention adds authenticity to the honky-tonk atmosphere Strait describes. The reference to beer helps create a relatable scene for country music fans who enjoy similar experiences.
8) ‘Adalida’ mentions gumbo
“Adalida” is a lively country song by George Strait that celebrates a charming Cajun woman. Released in 1995 as part of his album “Lead On,” the track incorporates elements of Cajun culture, including a reference to gumbo.
In the lyrics, Strait sings about Adalida’s cooking skills, specifically mentioning her ability to make gumbo. This traditional Louisiana dish adds local flavor to the song’s portrayal of Adalida as an alluring Cajun queen.
The gumbo reference helps paint a vivid picture of the setting and Adalida’s cultural background. It reinforces the song’s Louisiana bayou atmosphere and highlights the importance of food in Cajun culture.
By including gumbo in the lyrics, Strait adds authenticity to his portrayal of Adalida and the Cajun lifestyle. This detail contributes to the song’s charm and helps listeners connect with the character and setting.
9) ‘It Just Comes Natural’ talks about beer
George Strait’s hit song “It Just Comes Natural” includes a subtle reference to beer. The track, released in 2006 as part of his album of the same name, showcases Strait’s storytelling abilities and country music prowess.
In the lyrics, Strait mentions “cold beer” as one of the simple pleasures that come naturally to him. This casual reference fits seamlessly into the song’s theme of effortless enjoyment of life’s simple moments.
The inclusion of beer in the lyrics aligns with country music traditions, where alcohol often features as a symbol of relaxation and social bonding. Strait’s song portrays beer drinking as a natural, everyday activity for his character.
“It Just Comes Natural” became Strait’s 42nd Billboard number-one single, demonstrating its popularity among country music fans. The song’s success suggests that its relatable lyrics, including the beer reference, resonated with listeners.
10) ‘Wrapped’ mentions wine
“Wrapped” is a hit song recorded by George Strait for his 2006 album “It Just Comes Natural.” The track, written by Bruce Robison, became a popular single for Strait, reaching number two on the Billboard country chart.
In the lyrics, Strait sings about being unable to escape thoughts of a past love. He compares this lingering attachment to the effects of wine, creating a vivid metaphor for intoxicating emotions.
The song’s chorus includes the line “I thought I was doing fine, ’bout to get you off my mind.” This sets up the comparison to wine in the next line, emphasizing how the memory of this person continues to affect him unexpectedly.
While wine is not a central theme in “Wrapped,” its mention adds depth to the song’s exploration of love and longing. The reference helps convey the intense, sometimes overwhelming nature of romantic feelings.
11) ‘Stars on the Water’ references tiki bars
George Strait’s “Stars on the Water” mentions tiki bars in its portrayal of coastal nightlife. The song paints a vivid picture of the Gulf Coast region and its unique atmosphere.
Tiki bars, known for their tropical-themed decor and exotic cocktails, are referenced as part of the vibrant scene described in the lyrics. These establishments contribute to the lively and carefree ambiance of the coastal areas Strait sings about.
The song’s mention of tiki bars adds to its evocative imagery, transporting listeners to a laid-back, beachy setting. It captures the essence of fun-filled nights spent in these colorful and festive venues along the water’s edge.
By including tiki bars in the song’s narrative, Strait enhances the overall sense of escapism and tropical allure associated with coastal living. This reference helps create a more immersive experience for listeners, allowing them to envision the vibrant nightlife scene portrayed in the song.
12) ‘Texas Cookin” talks about fajitas
‘Texas Cookin” celebrates the diverse culinary landscape of the Lone Star State. George Strait’s rendition of this Guy Clark-penned tune highlights various Texan dishes, including the beloved fajitas.
The song mentions fajitas as part of a mouthwatering array of local specialties. Strait sings about the sizzling beef strips, typically served with peppers and onions on a hot skillet.
Fajitas represent the Tex-Mex influence on Texas cuisine. The dish originated in the cattle ranches of South and West Texas, where Mexican cowboys would cook skirt steak over an open fire.
‘Texas Cookin” paints a vivid picture of the state’s food culture. It invites listeners to imagine the aroma of grilled meat and the sound of sizzling fajitas in a bustling Texan restaurant.
The inclusion of fajitas in the song emphasizes their importance in Texas cuisine. It reflects the dish’s popularity and its status as a quintessential Texan food experience.
13) ‘Codigo’ mentions tequila
‘Codigo’ is a George Strait song that prominently features tequila as its central theme. The track is named after Código, a tequila brand that Strait has invested in and promotes.
In the lyrics, Strait sings about the experience of enjoying this particular tequila. He describes its smooth taste and the enjoyable effects it has on those who drink it.
The song portrays tequila as more than just a beverage. It becomes a symbol of celebration, relaxation, and shared moments with friends or loved ones.
Strait co-wrote ‘Codigo’ with his son Bubba Strait and longtime collaborator Dean Dillon. The song was released as part of his 2019 album “Honky Tonk Time Machine.”
A music video for ‘Codigo’ was filmed at the actual Mexican distillery where the tequila is produced. It features Strait’s wife Norma, making a rare appearance in one of his videos.
Themes of Food in Country Music
Food and drink references in country music serve multiple purposes, from evoking nostalgia to representing cultural traditions. These themes connect deeply with listeners through shared experiences and memories.
Symbolism of Food and Drinks
Food often symbolizes comfort, home, and family in country songs. Apple pie might represent innocence or traditional values, while whiskey can signify hardship or celebration. Mentions of specific dishes like “chicken fried” evoke a sense of place and regional identity.
Country artists use food imagery to paint vivid pictures of rural life and small-town America. References to barbecues, Sunday dinners, and homemade treats tap into shared cultural experiences.
Cultural Significance
Food in country music reflects the genre’s roots in Southern and rural traditions. Songs about farm-fresh produce celebrate agricultural heritage, while lyrics about comfort foods highlight the importance of family gatherings.
Certain foods and drinks have become iconic in country music, representing broader cultural values. Moonshine and bourbon often symbolize rebellion or rugged individualism, while mentions of sweet tea evoke Southern hospitality.
Country songs frequently use food to explore themes of economic class, with simple fare representing humble beginnings or working-class pride. These culinary references help create a strong connection between artists and their audience.
George Strait’s Musical Style
George Strait’s distinctive musical style blends traditional country elements with modern sensibilities. His approach to songwriting and performance has earned him the title “King of Country” and influenced generations of artists.
Narrative Storytelling
Strait excels at narrative songwriting, weaving compelling stories through his lyrics. His songs often feature relatable characters and situations that resonate with listeners. Strait’s ability to convey emotion and paint vivid scenes through music is a hallmark of his style.
He frequently tackles themes of love, heartbreak, and everyday life experiences. Songs like “The Chair” and “Check Yes or No” showcase his talent for crafting memorable narratives.
Strait’s storytelling often incorporates humor and wit, adding depth to his songs. This approach helps create a strong connection with his audience, making his music both entertaining and emotionally impactful.
Lyricism and Imagery
George Strait’s lyrics are known for their clarity and vivid imagery. He has a knack for using simple yet evocative language to bring scenes to life in listeners’ minds.
His songs often feature detailed descriptions of places, people, and feelings. This attention to detail helps create immersive musical experiences.
Strait’s lyrical style balances directness with poetic elements. He employs metaphors and similes sparingly but effectively, enhancing the emotional impact of his songs.
His choice of words and phrasing reflects his Texas roots, incorporating regional expressions and cowboy imagery. This authenticity contributes to his enduring appeal among country music fans.