George Strait, known as the “King of Country,” has captivated audiences for decades with his iconic performances and chart-topping hits. His setlists are carefully crafted to showcase his extensive catalog of country music classics and fan favorites. George Strait’s typical concert setlist includes approximately 30 songs, featuring a mix of his 60 number-one singles and beloved album tracks.
Fans attending a George Strait concert can expect to hear timeless hits like “Amarillo by Morning,” “All My Ex’s Live in Texas,” and “The Chair.” His setlists often evolve slightly from show to show, keeping the experience fresh for both the artist and his dedicated followers. Recent performances have included newer tracks alongside the classics, demonstrating Strait’s continued relevance in the country music scene.
George Strait’s Music Career
George Strait’s illustrious career in country music spans over four decades. He rose from humble beginnings in Texas to become one of the most successful and influential artists in the genre.
Iconic Songs
“Amarillo by Morning” launched Strait to stardom in 1983. The song’s poignant lyrics and traditional sound resonated deeply with fans. “All My Ex’s Live in Texas” became another signature hit in 1987, showcasing Strait’s clever wordplay and Texas roots.
“Ocean Front Property” topped the charts with its witty take on a breakup. These tracks helped define Strait’s classic country style. “Stars on the Water” highlighted his ability to interpret songs by other writers.
Album Milestones
Strait’s debut album “Strait Country” in 1981 set the tone for his career. It featured a neo-traditionalist approach that countered the pop-country trend of the time.
His 50th studio album “Honky Tonk Time Machine” released in 2019, proving his enduring relevance. Strait has sold over 100 million records worldwide, making him one of the best-selling music artists of all time.
Notable albums include “Pure Country” (1992), which served as the soundtrack to his film debut, and “Troubadour” (2008), which won him a Grammy Award.
Country Chart Achievements
George Strait holds the record for the most number-one singles on Billboard’s country charts. He’s amassed 60 number-one hits across all country charts.
Strait has had a top ten hit every year for three decades, from 1981 to 2009. This unprecedented consistency earned him the nickname “King of Country.”
He’s won numerous Country Music Association Awards, including Entertainer of the Year in 1989, 1990, and 2013. Strait’s chart success has cemented his status as a country music legend.
Tour History and Highlights
George Strait’s touring career spans decades, featuring countless sold-out shows across the United States. His concerts have become legendary events for country music fans, with impressive setlists and performances at iconic venues.
Notable Tours
George Strait’s touring history includes several significant runs. The “Cowboy Rides Away Tour” in 2013-2014 marked his farewell to full-scale touring. This tour culminated in a final show at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, with over 104,000 attendees.
In 2016, Strait launched his “Strait to Vegas” residency at T-Mobile Arena. This series of shows allowed fans to experience his music in a more intimate setting. The residency has continued with select dates each year, showcasing Strait’s enduring popularity.
Major Venues
Strait has performed at some of the most prestigious venues in the country. He’s graced the stage at Soldier Field in Chicago, Ford Field in Detroit, and MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ. These massive stadiums have allowed Strait to reach tens of thousands of fans in a single night.
State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, has also hosted Strait’s performances. His ability to sell out these large-scale venues underscores his status as the “King of Country.”
Tour Average Setlist
George Strait’s concert setlists typically feature a mix of his classic hits and newer material. On average, his shows include about 25-30 songs, spanning his entire career. Fan favorites like “Amarillo by Morning” and “All My Ex’s Live in Texas” are staples.
Recent setlists often open with “Here for a Good Time” and close with “The Cowboy Rides Away.” Strait also includes covers of country classics, paying homage to his influences. His band, the Ace in the Hole Band, provides stellar musical backing throughout the performances.
Typical Setlist Structure
George Strait’s concerts follow a well-crafted structure designed to engage fans and showcase his extensive catalog. His performances typically feature a mix of classic hits, newer material, and crowd favorites.
Opening Songs
Strait often kicks off his shows with upbeat, energetic tracks to set the tone. “Here for a Good Time” frequently appears as an opener, getting the audience excited from the start. He may also begin with popular hits like “Wrapped” or “I Got a Car” to immediately connect with fans.
The first few songs usually include a blend of tempos and eras from his career. This variety helps capture the attention of both long-time followers and newer listeners.
Main Set
The core of Strait’s performance comprises a carefully curated selection of songs spanning his decades-long career. He typically includes fan favorites like “The Fireman” and “Check Yes or No” in this segment.
Strait often mixes in slower ballads with more upbeat numbers to maintain energy and emotional resonance. Songs like “Run” might be interspersed throughout the main set to provide moments of reflection.
His setlists usually feature 20-25 songs in total, allowing him to cover a broad range of his discography.
Encore Pieces
Strait’s encores often feature some of his most beloved tracks. “The Cowboy Rides Away” is a common choice, serving as a fitting conclusion to his shows.
He may also include “Amarillo by Morning” or “All My Ex’s Live in Texas” as part of the encore. These selections typically elicit strong audience reactions and leave fans on a high note.
The encore usually consists of 2-3 songs, providing a memorable finale to the concert experience.
Collaborations and Special Performances
George Strait has shared the stage with notable country artists and performed memorable cover songs throughout his career. These collaborations and special performances have added unique elements to his concerts and delighted fans.
Noteworthy Collaborators
Chris Stapleton stands out as a significant collaborator for George Strait. The two country stars are set to embark on a highly anticipated tour together in 2025. This pairing promises to deliver unforgettable performances, blending Strait’s classic hits with Stapleton’s soulful tunes.
Little Big Town has also joined forces with Strait on stage. Their harmonies complement Strait’s distinctive voice, creating a rich musical experience for concert-goers.
Cover Performances
George Strait often incorporates cover songs into his setlists, paying homage to country music legends. “Pancho and Lefty,” originally by Townes Van Zandt, is a fan-favorite cover that Strait performs with heartfelt emotion.
His rendition of “Mia” showcases his versatility as a performer. This cover adds a touch of variety to his concerts, demonstrating Strait’s ability to interpret songs across different styles within the country genre.
Strait’s cover performances often highlight his connection to country music’s roots. His tributes to Honky Tonk Hall of Fame inductees further cement his status as a torchbearer of traditional country music.
George Strait’s Signature Songs
George Strait’s iconic career is defined by numerous hits that have become staples of country music. These songs have resonated deeply with fans and earned critical acclaim.
Fan Favorites
“The Chair” stands out as one of Strait’s most beloved tracks. Released in 1985, it cleverly tells a love story through witty dialogue. “Troubadour” showcases Strait’s reflective side, celebrating a life dedicated to music.
“Give It Away” topped the charts in 2006, demonstrating Strait’s enduring appeal. The catchy “Código” pays homage to tequila while highlighting his smooth vocal delivery.
“The Cowboy Rides Away” became synonymous with Strait’s farewell tour, encapsulating his cowboy persona. Fans eagerly anticipate these classics at his concerts.
Awards and Recognitions
“I Saw God Today” earned Strait his first Grammy Award for Best Male Country Vocal Performance in 2009. The song’s touching lyrics about fatherhood struck a chord with listeners.
“You Don’t Know What You’re Missing” showcases Strait’s ability to convey emotion through his performances. It garnered critical praise for its traditional country sound.
Strait’s signature songs have contributed to his impressive tally of 60 number-one hits. This achievement solidifies his status as the “King of Country” and highlights his consistent ability to produce chart-topping tracks.
Deep Cuts and Unexpected Gems
George Strait’s setlists often include lesser-known tracks and surprising cover songs that delight devoted fans. These selections showcase his musical range and appreciation for country music history.
Rarely Performed Tracks
“I Can Still Make Cheyenne” stands out as a fan-favorite deep cut that occasionally appears in Strait’s live shows. This poignant ballad about a rodeo cowboy resonates deeply with audiences when performed.
“Three Drinks Behind” is another rarely played gem that showcases Strait’s ability to deliver emotional storytelling. When included in a setlist, it offers a powerful moment of reflection.
Tribute Covers
Strait sometimes honors fellow country artists with unexpected cover versions. “Deep in the Heart of Texas” has appeared in recent setlists as a nod to his home state’s musical heritage.
“Waymore’s Blues” pays tribute to Waylon Jennings when Strait chooses to perform it live. This cover demonstrates his respect for outlaw country pioneers and adds variety to his shows.
These surprise inclusions keep longtime fans engaged and highlight Strait’s deep knowledge of country music history.
Concert Experience
George Strait concerts provide an unforgettable blend of classic country music and electrifying live performance. Fans can expect a carefully crafted setlist spanning his decades-long career, with iconic hits and newer releases seamlessly interwoven.
Atmosphere
The atmosphere at a George Strait show is electric. Venues transform into massive honky-tonks, with cowboy hats dotting the crowd. Strait often opens with upbeat numbers like “Every Little Honky Tonk Bar” to set the tone. The stage design typically features large screens displaying visuals that complement each song.
Set times usually run about 2 hours, allowing Strait to cover a wide range of material. The pacing alternates between high-energy tracks and slower ballads. Lighting shifts from bright, colorful displays during uptempo songs to softer hues for emotional numbers like “Amarillo by Morning.”
Audience Participation
Crowd involvement is a hallmark of Strait’s performances. Fans sing along word-for-word to classics like “She’ll Leave You with a Smile” and “Love’s Gonna Make It Alright.” During “Drinkin’ Man,” concertgoers often raise their drinks in unison.
Strait encourages audience interaction, sometimes pointing the microphone toward the crowd for familiar choruses. He occasionally shares brief anecdotes between songs, fostering a connection with attendees. The energy peaks during encore performances, with fans on their feet for favorites like “All My Ex’s Live in Texas” or “The Cowboy Rides Away.”
Miscellaneous Information
George Strait’s setlists showcase his extensive catalog and adaptability as a performer. His live shows feature a mix of classic hits and newer material, with occasional surprise inclusions.
Setlist Variations
George Strait often tailors his setlists to each venue and audience. He typically opens with upbeat tracks like “Here for a Good Time” or “Honky Tonk Time Machine” to energize the crowd. Fan favorites such as “Check Yes or No” and “Amarillo by Morning” are staples in most performances. Strait occasionally throws in covers like “Folsom Prison Blues” or “Unwound” to pay homage to country legends. He also rotates lesser-known gems like “How ‘Bout Them Cowgirls” and “Nobody in His Right Mind Would’ve Left Her” to keep longtime fans engaged.
Live Performance Statistics
George Strait has performed over 3,000 live shows throughout his career. His concerts typically last around 2 hours and feature 25-30 songs. On average, Strait plays 8-10 number one hits per show. His most performed song is “The Chair,” appearing in over 90% of his setlists. “Amarillo by Morning” and “All My Ex’s Live in Texas” are close runners-up. Strait’s encore usually consists of 2-3 songs, often including “The Cowboy Rides Away” as a fitting closure. His live performances have an average attendance of 20,000 fans per show.