George Strait’s “The Cowboy Rides Away Tour” marked the end of an era in country music. Announced in September 2012, this farewell tour spanned two years, covering 48 concerts across the United States. The tour kicked off on January 18, 2013, in Lubbock, Texas, and concluded with a record-breaking performance on June 7, 2014, in Arlington, Texas.
The grand finale at AT&T Stadium drew an astounding 104,000 fans, setting a new attendance record and solidifying Strait’s legacy as a country music icon. This momentous event featured Strait performing “in the round,” surrounded by adoring fans and joined by special guests. The tour’s name, inspired by one of Strait’s beloved songs, perfectly encapsulated the bittersweet nature of his departure from regular touring.
Throughout the tour, Strait treated audiences to a mix of his classic hits and newer material, showcasing the depth and breadth of his impressive catalog. While “The Cowboy Rides Away Tour” marked the end of Strait’s full-scale touring, it did not signal the end of his music career. The tour served as a celebration of his contributions to country music and a heartfelt thank you to his loyal fans.
The Legacy of George Strait
George Strait’s impact on country music is immeasurable. His career spans decades, influencing countless artists and earning him the title “King of Country.”
Career Highlights and Achievements
George Strait has amassed an impressive 60 No. 1 singles, more than any artist in any genre. He’s sold over 100 million records worldwide, making him one of the best-selling music artists of all time.
Strait has won numerous awards, including:
- 3 CMA Entertainer of the Year awards
- 22 CMA Awards
- 20 ACM Awards
In 2006, he was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame. His consistency in producing hit songs and albums has earned him the nickname “King George” among fans and industry professionals alike.
Influence on Country Music
Strait’s traditional country sound helped preserve the genre’s roots during a time when pop influences were becoming more prevalent. His success proved that classic country still had a place in modern music.
Many current country stars cite Strait as a major influence, including:
- Brad Paisley
- Luke Bryan
- Blake Shelton
His songs often feature storytelling lyrics and authentic country instrumentation, setting a standard for quality in the genre. Strait’s ability to balance commercial success with artistic integrity has inspired generations of country artists.
Relationship with Fans
Strait’s connection with his fans is legendary. His concerts consistently sell out, with his final stop on the Cowboy Rides Away Tour drawing a record-breaking 104,793 attendees.
He’s known for his humble stage presence and focus on the music rather than flashy performances. This approach has endeared him to fans who appreciate his authenticity and dedication to his craft.
Even after retiring from touring, Strait continues to release new music and perform select shows, maintaining his bond with his loyal fanbase. His enduring popularity is a testament to the deep connection he’s forged with country music lovers over his long career.
Conception and Announcement
George Strait’s decision to embark on his final tour marked a significant moment in country music history. The announcement sparked widespread interest and speculation about the legendary performer’s retirement plans.
Origins of the Tour
George Strait revealed his intentions for a farewell tour in September 2012. The country music icon, known for his traditional style and numerous hits, chose to call it “The Cowboy Rides Away Tour.” This name held special significance, echoing one of his beloved songs.
Strait planned the tour to span two years, allowing fans across the country ample opportunity to see him perform live one last time. The tour’s concept aimed to celebrate Strait’s 30-year career and his impact on country music.
Public Perception and Expectations
The announcement of Strait’s final tour generated immense excitement among fans and industry professionals alike. Many viewed it as a chance to witness history in the making. Tickets for the tour dates sold out rapidly, reflecting the high demand to see the “King of Country” perform.
Media outlets extensively covered the tour’s announcement, highlighting Strait’s lasting influence on the genre. Fans expressed mixed emotions – enthusiasm for the concerts coupled with sadness about Strait’s impending retirement from touring. The tour’s finale was set for June 7, 2014, at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, promising a grand send-off for the country legend.
Tour Breakdown
George Strait’s The Cowboy Rides Away Tour spanned two years and featured dozens of concerts across the United States. The farewell tour showcased Strait’s legendary career and included special guests, memorable venues, and a carefully crafted setlist.
Notable Concerts and Locations
The tour kicked off on January 18, 2013, in Lubbock, Texas. It concluded with a record-breaking performance at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on June 7, 2014. This final show drew an astounding 104,000 fans, setting a new attendance record for an indoor concert in North America.
Other significant stops included Las Vegas and Chicago. The tour’s extensive reach allowed fans across the country to bid farewell to the King of Country Music.
Special Guest Appearances
Strait’s farewell tour featured an impressive lineup of guest performers. Country music stars like Alan Jackson, Garth Brooks, and Miranda Lambert joined him on stage throughout the tour.
Martina McBride served as the opening act for many of the shows, adding her powerful vocals to the mix. These collaborations created unforgettable moments for concertgoers and highlighted Strait’s influence on multiple generations of country artists.
The Setlist and its Impact
Strait’s setlist for The Cowboy Rides Away Tour was a journey through his illustrious career. It featured a mix of his chart-topping hits, fan favorites, and deep cuts from his extensive catalog.
The tour’s namesake song, “The Cowboy Rides Away,” became an emotional cornerstone of each performance. Strait typically closed the show with this poignant ballad, leaving audiences with a bittersweet reminder of his impending retirement from touring.
The carefully curated setlist allowed fans to experience the breadth of Strait’s musical legacy, from his early hits to more recent releases. This comprehensive approach showcased the enduring appeal of his music across decades.
Musical Journey and Themes
George Strait’s farewell tour showcased his musical evolution and the recurring themes that defined his career. His songs explored love, loss, and the cowboy lifestyle through vivid storytelling and emotive performances.
Storytelling through Lyrics
Strait’s lyrics painted vivid pictures of heartbreak, nostalgia, and the American West. His songs often featured relatable characters and situations, allowing listeners to connect deeply with the narratives. “The Cowboy Rides Away” exemplified this storytelling prowess, depicting a bittersweet farewell with profound emotional depth.
Strait’s collaboration with talented songwriters like Dean Dillon and Jim Lauderdale contributed to his ability to convey complex emotions through simple, yet powerful words. Many of his ballads became timeless classics due to their heartfelt lyrics and universal themes.
The Role of Steel Guitar
The steel guitar played a crucial role in shaping Strait’s signature sound. Its mournful twang added emotional weight to his ballads and a touch of authenticity to his upbeat numbers. Skilled steel guitarists like Paul Franklin contributed significantly to Strait’s recordings and live performances.
This instrument’s prominence in Strait’s music helped maintain a connection to traditional country sounds while appealing to modern audiences. Its use in songs like “Amarillo by Morning” created an instantly recognizable sonic identity for Strait.
Exploring the Ballads
Strait’s ballads formed the cornerstone of his musical repertoire. These slow-tempo songs allowed him to showcase his smooth vocals and delve into themes of love, regret, and heartbreak. Hits like “I Cross My Heart” and “The Chair” became fan favorites due to their emotional resonance.
MCA Records recognized Strait’s talent for delivering powerful ballads and often released them as singles. These songs frequently topped the charts, cementing Strait’s status as the “King of Country.” His ability to convey raw emotion through these ballads endeared him to audiences and critics alike.
Cultural Impact
George Strait’s farewell tour profoundly shaped country music and American culture. It reinforced cowboy ideals, celebrated traditional country sounds, and created lasting emotional connections with fans.
Cowboy Culture and Identity
George Strait’s tour solidified his status as the “King of Country” and a symbol of cowboy culture. His cowboy hat, boots, and denim attire became iconic representations of the American West. The tour highlighted songs that romanticized the cowboy lifestyle, resonating with audiences in Texas and beyond. Strait’s music celebrated rural values, hard work, and simple pleasures, reinforcing these ideals in popular culture.
Strait’s influence extended beyond music, impacting fashion and cultural attitudes. His authentic cowboy persona inspired fans to embrace Western wear and ideals.
A Reflection on Traditional Country
The farewell tour showcased Strait’s commitment to traditional country music. It featured classic honky-tonk sounds and steel guitar, contrasting with the pop-influenced trends in Nashville. Strait’s music preserved the legacy of artists like Merle Haggard and George Jones, keeping their style alive for new generations.
The tour’s success proved the enduring appeal of traditional country. It encouraged other artists to embrace rootsier sounds and themes. Strait’s “Strait Country” style influenced younger performers, helping maintain country music’s distinctive identity.
Emotional Journey of the Audience
Strait’s farewell tour created powerful emotional experiences for fans. Many attendees described feeling a mix of joy and melancholy during performances. The tour’s setlist, featuring hits like “The Cowboy Rides Away,” took audiences on a nostalgic journey through Strait’s career.
Fans shared memories and formed connections at concerts, creating a sense of community. For many, the tour represented the end of an era in country music. It allowed longtime followers to say goodbye to an artist who had been part of their lives for decades.
The tour’s final show in Arlington, Texas, drew a record-breaking crowd of 104,000, highlighting Strait’s immense popularity and cultural significance.
Beyond the Farewell
George Strait’s farewell tour marked a transition rather than an endpoint in his legendary career. He continued to create music, engage with fans, and contribute to charitable causes.
Live Album and Recording Success
The Cowboy Rides Away Tour yielded a successful live album. Released in September 2014, “The Cowboy Rides Away: Live from AT&T Stadium” captured the energy of Strait’s final tour stop. The album debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Country Albums chart.
It featured collaborations with notable artists like Jason Aldean, Kenny Chesney, and Miranda Lambert. The record’s success demonstrated Strait’s enduring appeal and the emotional impact of his farewell performances.
Ongoing Projects and Releases
Despite retiring from touring, Strait continued to release new music. In 2015, he surprised fans with “Cold Beer Conversation”, his 29th studio album. The record showcased Strait’s ability to evolve while maintaining his signature sound.
He signed a new deal with MCA Nashville in 2018, promising more studio albums. Strait’s commitment to creating fresh material kept him relevant in the ever-changing country music landscape.
Support Foundations and Charities
Strait’s influence extended beyond music into philanthropy. He actively supported the Military Warriors Support Foundation, which provides housing for wounded veterans and their families.
His annual Team Roping Classic event raised funds for various charities. Strait also contributed to natural disaster relief efforts, including aid for Hurricane Harvey victims in his home state of Texas.
These initiatives allowed Strait to maintain a connection with fans while making a positive impact on communities.
George Strait’s Influence on Future Generations
George Strait’s impact on country music extends far beyond his own career. His traditional sound and authentic style have shaped the genre and inspired countless artists.
Artists Inspired by George Strait
Blake Shelton, Kenny Chesney, and Vince Gill have all cited George Strait as a major influence on their careers. These artists have incorporated elements of Strait’s classic country sound into their own music. Little Big Town has praised Strait’s vocal techniques and stage presence, often emulating his performance style.
Sheryl Crow, known primarily for rock and pop, has also expressed admiration for Strait’s musicianship. His ability to cross genre boundaries has inspired artists beyond the country music world. Even rock bands like Kiss have acknowledged Strait’s impact on the music industry as a whole.
Songwriting and the Future of Country Music
George Strait’s songwriting legacy continues to shape the future of country music. His focus on storytelling and relatable lyrics has set a standard for aspiring songwriters. Many contemporary country artists strive to capture the timeless appeal of Strait’s compositions.
Strait’s commitment to traditional country themes and instrumentation has influenced a new generation of artists seeking to preserve the genre’s roots. His songs often serve as benchmarks for quality in Nashville writing rooms. The enduring popularity of Strait’s music demonstrates the lasting appeal of well-crafted, authentic country songs.
Conclusion
George Strait’s “The Cowboy Rides Away” tour marked the end of an era in country music. The farewell tour allowed fans to celebrate Strait’s illustrious career and iconic songs one last time.
The tour’s title, taken from his hit song, served as a powerful metaphor for letting go. It resonated with audiences, capturing the bittersweet nature of Strait’s departure from touring.
Strait’s legacy as the “King of Country” was solidified through this final series of performances. His influence on the genre and impact on fans worldwide became even more apparent.
The tour’s success demonstrated the enduring appeal of Strait’s music and persona. It also highlighted the deep connection he had fostered with his audience over decades.
As the cowboy rode away, he left behind a treasure trove of memories and music. Strait’s farewell tour ensured his place in country music history, leaving an indelible mark on the industry and his fans.