George Strait, a legendary figure in country music, has woven cars and trucks into the fabric of many of his songs. These vehicles often serve as more than mere transportation, becoming integral parts of the stories he tells through his music.
George Strait has recorded 59 number-one hit singles as of 2012, holding the world record for the most chart-topping songs across all musical genres. His impressive catalog includes numerous tracks that mention automobiles, reflecting the importance of cars and trucks in country culture and American life. This collection of songs showcases Strait’s ability to capture the essence of everyday experiences and turn them into relatable, memorable tunes.
1) Amarillo By Morning
“Amarillo By Morning” is one of George Strait’s most iconic songs, released as a single in 1983. While it doesn’t explicitly mention cars or trucks, it does reference transportation through the rodeo lifestyle.
The lyrics describe a cowboy’s journey, stating “Amarillo by morning, up from San Antone.” This implies travel, likely by vehicle, between Texas cities for rodeo competitions.
The song paints a picture of a rodeo cowboy’s life on the road. It includes lines about losing a wife, saddle, and breaking bones, all part of the traveling rodeo experience.
Though vehicles aren’t directly mentioned, the theme of constant movement is central to the song. The narrator’s belongings fit in his saddle bags, suggesting a nomadic lifestyle facilitated by road travel.
“Amarillo By Morning” became a signature song for George Strait. It reached number 4 on the Billboard Country chart and has remained a fan favorite for decades.
2) The Fireman
“The Fireman” is a popular song by George Strait released in 1985. It reached number 5 on the country music charts in the United States and number 10 in Canada.
The song features a clever metaphor comparing the narrator to a fireman who “puts out” romantic flames. He drives a fire engine red T-bird automobile, emphasizing the car’s connection to his persona.
Strait sings about being ready at a moment’s notice, able to dress “fit to kill” in under a minute. He works 24 hours on, 24 hours off, responding to calls when things get “too hot.”
The T-bird mentioned in the lyrics adds to the song’s imagery. It connects the idea of a fast, attention-grabbing vehicle to the narrator’s quick response time and eye-catching appearance.
This catchy tune showcases Strait’s ability to blend humor, wordplay, and automotive references into a memorable country hit. The car serves as both a practical tool and a symbol of the narrator’s lifestyle.
3) Ocean Front Property
“Ocean Front Property” is a clever George Strait song that uses cars as part of its humorous premise. The lyrics playfully suggest selling impossible things, including a fictional bridge.
The car reference appears in the chorus when Strait sings about having “some ocean front property in Arizona.” He then adds, “From my front porch you can see the sea.”
This absurd claim is followed by an offer to throw in the Golden Gate Bridge free. The song uses these outlandish statements to emphasize the narrator’s dishonesty.
While not directly about vehicles, “Ocean Front Property” incorporates the idea of selling nonexistent landmarks. This includes the famous San Francisco bridge, known for its heavy car traffic.
The song became one of Strait’s signature hits. It reached number one on the country charts in both the United States and Canada in 1987.
4) All My Ex’s Live In Texas
“All My Ex’s Live In Texas” is a classic George Strait song released in 1987. It became his 11th number-one hit on the Billboard country charts.
The song mentions a car briefly in its opening lines. The narrator describes driving a “pickup truck” as he heads to Tennessee to escape his past relationships in Texas.
Strait’s performance brings humor and charm to the lyrics. He sings about fleeing the Lone Star State to avoid running into his former flames.
The track’s clever wordplay and catchy melody helped make it one of Strait’s signature tunes. It earned a Grammy nomination for Best Male Country Vocal Performance in 1988.
“All My Ex’s Live In Texas” appeared on Strait’s album “Ocean Front Property.” The song’s popularity has endured over the years, remaining a fan favorite at concerts.
While vehicles aren’t the main focus, the pickup truck reference sets the scene for this beloved country hit. It exemplifies how Strait often incorporates cars and driving into his storytelling.
5) Cowboy Rides Away
“The Cowboy Rides Away” is a George Strait classic that doesn’t explicitly mention cars or trucks. However, it paints a vivid picture of a cowboy’s departure, implying the use of transportation.
The song, written by Sonny Throckmorton and Casey Kelly, was released in January 1985. It became the second single from Strait’s album “Does Fort Worth Ever Cross Your Mind.”
While not directly referencing a vehicle, the title and lyrics suggest the cowboy’s journey away from a relationship. The mode of transportation is left to the listener’s imagination, fitting the cowboy persona.
This song reached number 5 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. It has since become an iconic part of Strait’s repertoire, often used to close his concerts.
“The Cowboy Rides Away” captures the essence of moving on, a theme common in country music. Its popularity and lasting impact demonstrate Strait’s ability to connect with audiences through storytelling.
6) Love Without End, Amen
“Love Without End, Amen” is a beloved George Strait song that touches on the theme of unconditional love between fathers and sons. While not explicitly about cars or trucks, the song features a brief mention of a vehicle in its narrative.
In the first verse, the lyrics describe a young boy being sent home from school for fighting. He arrives in his father’s car, dreading the consequences of his actions.
The song’s storyline revolves around the passing down of paternal wisdom and forgiveness through generations. Though vehicles play a minor role, the car serves as a setting for an important moment in the father-son relationship.
Released in 1990 as part of Strait’s “Livin’ It Up” album, “Love Without End, Amen” became one of his most successful singles. It spent five weeks at the top of the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, marking Strait’s first multi-week number-one hit.
The track’s enduring popularity stems from its relatable message and emotional depth, resonating with listeners across generations. Its subtle inclusion of a vehicle in the narrative adds to the song’s everyday, slice-of-life quality.
7) The Road Less Traveled
“The Road Less Traveled” is the title track from George Strait’s 2001 album. This country tune references driving as a metaphor for life choices.
The lyrics describe taking an unconventional path in life, comparing it to driving down a less-traveled road. Strait sings about the courage required to forge one’s own way.
While not explicitly about a vehicle, the song uses road imagery to convey its message. The chorus mentions “taking the road less traveled” and how it “makes all the difference.”
This track showcases Strait’s ability to blend relatable themes with country music’s common motifs of roads and journeys. It resonated with fans and critics alike.
“The Road Less Traveled” helped solidify Strait’s reputation as a versatile artist who could tackle both light-hearted and more introspective material. The song’s driving metaphor connects it to Strait’s other vehicle-themed tracks.
8) I Cross My Heart
“I Cross My Heart” is a beloved George Strait ballad that doesn’t actually mention cars or trucks. Released in 1992, it became one of Strait’s signature love songs.
The track appeared in Strait’s film “Pure Country” and quickly rose to number one on the country music charts. Its romantic lyrics and heartfelt melody resonated strongly with listeners.
While “I Cross My Heart” doesn’t include automotive references, it showcases Strait’s ability to deliver powerful emotional performances. The song’s enduring popularity demonstrates his versatility as an artist beyond car-themed tunes.
Written by Steve Dorff and Eric Kaz, “I Cross My Heart” remains a staple at weddings and romantic occasions. Its timeless quality has helped it maintain relevance in Strait’s extensive catalog for decades.
9) Check Yes or No
“Check Yes or No” is a beloved George Strait song that features a brief mention of a car. The track tells the story of a lifelong romance that begins in childhood.
In the song’s opening verse, Strait sings about a third-grade love note passed in class. The note asks, “Do you love me? Do you wanna be my friend?”
The car reference comes later in the lyrics. Strait sings, “Now we’re grown up and she’s my wife / Still like two kids with stars in our eyes / Ain’t much changed, I still chase Emmylou / Up and down the hall, around the bed in our room.”
This playful image of chasing his wife around their home culminates with the line, “Last night I took her out in a white limousine.” The limousine serves as a symbol of their enduring love and romance.
While not a central focus of the song, this car reference adds a touch of luxury and celebration to the couple’s long-lasting relationship.
10) Ace in the Hole
“Ace in the Hole” is a popular George Strait song released in July 1989. It became his 18th number one single on the Billboard Country Music chart and his 11th consecutive chart-topper.
The song’s lyrics cleverly use poker terminology as a metaphor for life advice. While it doesn’t directly mention cars or trucks, it employs gambling-related imagery that resonates with country music fans.
George Strait’s touring band shares the name “Ace in the Hole Band,” adding significance to the song’s title. The track appeared on Strait’s album “Beyond the Blue Neon.”
Known for its catchy melody and relatable lyrics, “Ace in the Hole” showcases Strait’s storytelling abilities. It blends humor, wisdom, and charm in a way that appeals to a wide audience.
The song’s enduring popularity has made it a staple at George Strait concerts. Its message about having a backup plan or secret advantage in life continues to resonate with listeners years after its initial release.
11) Easy Come, Easy Go
“Easy Come, Easy Go” is a hit single from George Strait’s 1993 album of the same name. The song reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart.
While not explicitly about vehicles, the lyrics use driving metaphors to describe a relationship ending. Strait sings about setting someone free and moving on, comparing it to an easy journey.
The chorus includes the line “Easy come girl, easy go,” emphasizing the casual nature of the departure. This reinforces the idea of a smooth ride rather than a bumpy road.
Though cars aren’t directly mentioned, the overall theme of effortless movement aligns with the ease of driving. The song’s title itself evokes the feeling of a carefree road trip.
“Easy Come, Easy Go” showcases Strait’s ability to use subtle vehicle imagery in his songwriting. It demonstrates how car-related concepts can enhance storytelling in country music.
12) If You Ain’t Lovin’ (You Ain’t Livin’)
“If You Ain’t Lovin’ (You Ain’t Livin’)” is a country song recorded by George Strait. It was released in 1988 as part of his album of the same name.
The song mentions cars in its lyrics, specifically referencing “a string of long cars.” This line appears in the fourth verse of the track.
George Strait’s rendition of the song became popular among country music fans. It was originally recorded by Faron Young, but Strait’s version helped bring it to a wider audience.
The lyrics convey a message about the importance of love and relationships over material possessions. The mention of cars serves to illustrate this point, suggesting that even owning multiple vehicles doesn’t equate to truly living.
“If You Ain’t Lovin’ (You Ain’t Livin’)” showcases Strait’s ability to deliver meaningful lyrics with his signature smooth vocal style. The song’s inclusion of cars adds to its relatability and appeal to country music listeners.
13) Living and Living Well
“Living and Living Well” is a hit song by George Strait released in 2002. The track reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart and peaked at number 27 on the Billboard Hot 100.
While not explicitly about cars or trucks, the song does contain a brief reference to vehicles. In the lyrics, Strait mentions having “a little boat” as part of the comfortable life he led before meeting someone special.
The boat serves as a symbol of freedom and leisure in the song’s narrative. It represents the carefree lifestyle the protagonist enjoyed before falling in love changed his priorities.
Though the vehicle reference is minor, it adds to the picture of an easygoing life that the song paints. The boat fits into the coastal imagery alongside mentions of beaches and ocean views.
“Living and Living Well” showcases Strait’s ability to weave subtle details into his storytelling. Even with just a brief mention of a boat, the song creates a vivid sense of place and lifestyle.
14) Give It Away
“Give It Away” is a 2006 hit single by George Strait that features a brief mention of a vehicle. The song tells the story of a man going through a divorce, with his wife leaving him and giving away their possessions.
In the chorus, Strait sings about his ex-wife giving away their king-size bed, her wedding ring, and significantly, “the keys to her car.” This car reference emphasizes the finality of the separation and the complete dismantling of their shared life.
The song’s clever wordplay and emotional depth resonated with listeners. It became Strait’s 41st number-one hit on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, further cementing his status as the “King of Country.”
“Give It Away” was co-written by Bill Anderson, Buddy Cannon, and Jamey Johnson. It earned the Song of the Year award at both the Country Music Association Awards and the Academy of Country Music Awards in 2007.
15) Here for a Good Time
“Here for a Good Time” is a popular George Strait song released in 2011. The track serves as the title song for Strait’s twenty-seventh studio album.
While the song doesn’t prominently feature cars or trucks, it does include a brief mention of “moonshine.” This reference subtly evokes images of rural backroads and country living.
George Strait co-wrote the song with his son Bubba and longtime collaborator Dean Dillon. The upbeat tune encourages listeners to embrace life and make the most of every moment.
The lyrics focus on living life to the fullest rather than worrying about material possessions or leaving a legacy. This carefree attitude aligns with the freedom often associated with driving down country roads.
“Here for a Good Time” became another chart-topping hit for Strait, further cementing his status as the “King of Country Music.”
16) Run
“Run” is a popular George Strait song released in 2001 as part of his album “The Road Less Traveled.” The track features a brief but memorable reference to a Chevrolet truck.
In the song’s lyrics, Strait sings about a man encouraging his love interest to leave everything behind and run away with him. He promises her a better life and mentions his Chevy truck as part of their escape plan.
The line “I’ll be waiting in the backseat of a Bronco in a field” was changed to “I’ll be waiting in the front seat of my Chevy at the red light” for the radio edit. This alteration brought the truck reference more prominently into the song.
“Run” became one of Strait’s most successful singles, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. The song’s popularity has made it a staple in Strait’s live performances, where fans often cheer at the mention of the Chevy truck.
George Strait’s Automotive Imagery
George Strait’s lyrics often feature cars and trucks as powerful symbols and storytelling devices. These vehicular references reflect both the cultural significance of automobiles in country music and Strait’s ability to craft vivid narratives.
Symbolism of Cars in Country Music
In George Strait’s songs, cars frequently represent freedom, independence, and the open road. His hit “Ocean Front Property” mentions a “new Ford truck” as a symbol of escape and new beginnings. Strait’s use of specific car models adds authenticity to his lyrics, connecting with listeners who share similar experiences.
Cars also symbolize nostalgia and simpler times in Strait’s music. “Drive” reminisces about an old pickup truck, evoking memories of youth and family. This automotive imagery taps into the emotional core of country music, celebrating rural American life and values.
Cars as Storytelling Tools
George Strait skillfully uses cars to drive his narratives forward. In “The Cowboy Rides Away,” the protagonist’s journey is marked by his truck, emphasizing themes of departure and change. Strait’s “Blue Clear Sky” features a car radio playing, setting the scene for a romantic encounter.
These automotive references create relatable scenarios for listeners. “Check Yes or No” mentions a school bus, instantly transporting the audience to childhood memories. By incorporating familiar vehicles into his lyrics, Strait crafts stories that resonate deeply with his audience.
Strait’s car imagery often serves as a backdrop for character development. In “Carried Away,” the narrator’s truck becomes a setting for romantic tension, revealing aspects of the relationship dynamics at play.
Influence of Automobiles on Country Music Themes
Cars and trucks have shaped country music’s imagery and storytelling in profound ways. They represent core values and experiences that resonate deeply with listeners.
Freedom and Adventure
Automobiles symbolize freedom and adventure in country songs. Artists paint vivid pictures of open roads, newfound independence, and exciting journeys. Trucks enable escape to nature, while sports cars represent thrill-seeking.
Country lyrics often feature road trips, from spontaneous weekend getaways to cross-country adventures. These songs tap into the American spirit of mobility and exploration. Vehicles become characters, trusted companions on life’s highway.
Some tracks celebrate the simple joys of cruising with the windows down. Others use driving as a metaphor for personal growth and life choices. The car itself can represent progress, opportunity, or a fresh start.
Nostalgia and Memory
Automobiles in country music often evoke nostalgia and cherished memories. Artists reminisce about their first cars, family road trips, or pivotal moments that occurred in or around vehicles.
Classic models like old pickup trucks symbolize simpler times and rural roots. Songs may fondly recall working on cars with loved ones or landmark events like first dates in the family sedan.
Certain vehicles become time capsules, preserving the essence of past eras. The rumble of a vintage engine or the feel of worn leather seats can transport listeners to their youth.
Some tracks use cars to explore themes of legacy and heritage. A father’s prized truck passed down represents family traditions and values carried forward through generations.