George Strait is one of the most influential and successful country music artists in history, often hailed as the “King of Country.” Born George Harvey Strait on May 18, 1952, in Poteet, Texas, he grew up in a musical family that nurtured his love for country music from an early age.

Early Life and Education

Strait’s family moved to nearby Pearsall, Texas, when he was a child. His father, John Byron Strait, played guitar and was a big influence on George’s musical taste. George learned to play guitar as a teenager and performed in local clubs while still in high school. After graduating from Pearsall High School in 1970, he briefly attended Southwest Texas State University (now Texas State University), where he earned a degree in agriculture.

During college, Strait formed the band Stoney Ridge with some friends and played at local venues. He also began recording demos, showing early signs of his smooth vocal style and traditional country sound.

Early Career and Breakthrough

In 1975, George Strait was drafted into the U.S. Army and stationed in Hawaii. After his service, he returned to Texas and continued pursuing music. In 1981, he signed his first recording contract with MCA Records.

His debut single, “Unwound,” released in 1981, quickly rose to No. 6 on the country charts and marked the beginning of a prolific career. His debut album, “Strait Country,” released the same year, showcased his traditional honky-tonk style, setting him apart from the pop-country trend of the early ’80s.

Rise to Stardom

Throughout the 1980s and ’90s, George Strait dominated country music charts with a string of No. 1 hits and platinum albums. Known for his smooth voice, straightforward lyrics, and cowboy image, he became a symbol of neotraditional country music.

Some of his iconic songs from this period include:

• “Amarillo by Morning”

• “All My Ex’s Live in Texas”

• “The Chair”

• “Ocean Front Property”

• “Write This Down”

His consistent output of hit songs helped revive and maintain traditional country music’s popularity during a time when other artists leaned toward crossover styles.

Career Highlights and Achievements

• Over 60 No. 1 singles on Billboard’s country charts—more than any other artist

• More than 30 studio albums, with many reaching multi-platinum status

• Known for a “straightforward” style that emphasizes traditional country instrumentation and storytelling

• Inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2006

• Recipient of numerous awards, including Grammy Awards, CMA Awards, and ACM Awards

• In 2024, he was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame

Personal Life

George Strait married Norma Voss in 1971, and the couple has two children. Known for his down-to-earth personality, Strait has kept his personal life relatively private, focusing on his family and ranching interests outside of music.

Legacy

George Strait’s influence on country music is vast. He is credited with popularizing the neotraditional country movement, inspiring countless artists who followed. His music is characterized by timeless storytelling, classic country sounds, and a genuine, heartfelt vocal style.

Strait is also known for his live performances, including the record-breaking “Cowboy Rides Away” farewell tour in 2014, which marked his retirement from full-time touring.