History of George Strait in Timeline
George Strait is a renowned American country music icon known for his traditional cowboy image and neotraditional sound. He rose to prominence in the 1980s, countering the prevailing country-pop trend in Nashville. His significant contributions to country music have earned him the title "King of Country Music." Notably, Strait holds the record for the highest number of chart-topping songs across all genres, solidifying his legendary status in music history.
January 11, 1922: Birth of John Byron Strait Sr.
John Byron Strait Sr., George Strait's father, was born on January 11, 1922.
June 26, 1930: Birth of Doris Jean Couser
Doris Jean Couser, George Strait's mother, was born on June 26, 1930.
1950: Birth of John "Buddy" Strait Jr.
John "Buddy" Strait Jr., George Strait's brother, was born in 1950.
May 18, 1952: Birth of George Strait
George Harvey Strait Sr. was born on May 18, 1952. He would become a prominent American country music singer, songwriter, actor, and music producer.
1966: Eddy Arnold's Early Hall of Fame Induction
Eddy Arnold was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1966 while he was still actively recording and releasing music.
December 4, 1971: George Strait and Norma Voss Elope
On December 4, 1971, George Strait eloped with his high school sweetheart, Norma Voss, in Mexico, marking the start of their marriage.
December 1971: Marriage to Norma
George Strait married his high school sweetheart, Norma, in December 1971, marking the beginning of their enduring relationship.
October 6, 1972: Birth of Jenifer Strait
George and Norma Strait welcomed their first child, Jenifer, on October 6, 1972, while George was stationed in Hawaii during his time in the US Army.
1973: Terry Stafford Releases "Amarillo by Morning"
Terry Stafford, an American country music singer, released "Amarillo by Morning" in 1973. The song later became a signature song for George Strait.
1975: George Strait Enrolls at Southwest Texas State University
After his military service, George Strait enrolled at Southwest Texas State University (now Texas State University) in San Marcos in 1975, pursuing a degree in agriculture.
1975: George Strait's Honorable Discharge from the Army
George Strait was honorably discharged from the United States Army in 1975, having served from 1971 and achieving the rank of Corporal.
February 1981: George Strait Signs with MCA Records
After facing rejections from various labels, George Strait signed a pivotal recording contract with MCA Records in February 1981. This deal initially focused on a single song, with the possibility of an album contingent on its success.
December 5, 1981: Record-Breaking Rolling Stones Concert
On December 5, 1981, The Rolling Stones held a concert at the New Orleans Superdome, drawing a crowd of 87,500 fans. This event set a record for the largest indoor concert ever at that time. The opening acts for the concert included The Neville Brothers and George Thorogood and the Destroyers.
1981: Birth of Son, George Harvey Strait Jr. ("Bubba")
George and Norma Strait welcomed their son, George Harvey Strait Jr., affectionately known as "Bubba," in 1981.
1981: Strait's Debut Single Charts
In 1981, George Strait's debut single "Unwound" reached number six on the Hot Country Singles chart, marking the beginning of his 30-year streak of having at least one single in the Billboard top 10 every year.
1981: George Strait's Musical Breakthrough
In 1981, George Strait's debut single "Unwound" achieved significant success, marking the beginning of his successful music career and introducing the neotraditional country movement to the mainstream.
1981: Release of "Strait Country"
George Strait's debut album, "Strait Country," was released in 1981, featuring his first single "Unwound." The album marked a significant departure from the prevailing pop-influenced country music of the time, establishing Strait as a pioneer of the new-traditionalist movement.
1982: Strait Appears in "The Soldier"
George Strait had a minor acting role in the 1982 film "The Soldier."
1982: Release of "Strait from the Heart"
In 1982, George Strait released his second studio album, "Strait from the Heart," which garnered critical acclaim. The album featured his first number-one single, "Fool Hearted Memory," and the popular Western ballad "Amarillo by Morning." Notably, "Amarillo by Morning" was originally sung and written by Terry Stafford in 1973 and went on to become one of Strait's signature songs.
1983: Start of Five Consecutive Number One Singles
From 1983 to 1984, George Strait achieved a remarkable feat with five consecutive number-one singles, a testament to his growing popularity and musical prowess.
1983: George Strait's Debut at Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo
In 1983, George Strait made his first appearance at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, filling in for headliner Eddie Rabbitt, who was unwell. This marked the beginning of Strait's long-standing tradition of performing at the rodeo, where he has entertained over a million fans over numerous appearances.
1984: Release of "Right or Wrong" and "Does Fort Worth Ever Cross Your Mind"
George Strait released two successful albums, "Right or Wrong" and "Does Fort Worth Ever Cross Your Mind," in 1984. "Right or Wrong" marked his first number-one album, while "Does Fort Worth Ever Cross Your Mind" earned him a CMA award.
1985: Establishment of the Freeman Ranch Endowment Fund
George Strait, a dedicated alumnus of Texas State University, established an endowment fund in 1985 to support the development and operation of the Freeman Ranch. The fund's purpose encompasses agricultural advancements, land and wildlife management, and scholarship opportunities.
1985: CMA Award for Top Male Vocalist and Release of "Something Special"
In 1985, George Strait was recognized as the CMA's top male vocalist. He also released "Something Special," his third consecutive number-one album, which featured the chart-topping single "The Chair."
June 25, 1986: Death of Jenifer Strait and Establishment of the Jenifer Lyn Strait Foundation
On June 25, 1986, George Strait's daughter, Jenifer, tragically passed away in a car accident at the age of 13. In response to this loss, the Strait family founded the Jenifer Lyn Strait Foundation, dedicated to supporting children's charities in the San Antonio area.
1986: CMA Award, Number-One Album, and Continued Success
George Strait's successful streak continued in 1986 as he earned his second consecutive CMA Vocalist of the Year award and released his fourth number-one album, "#7," further solidifying his standing as a leading figure in country music.
1986: The Death of George Strait's Daughter, Jenifer
In a heartbreaking turn of events in 1986, George Strait's 13-year-old daughter, Jenifer, tragically lost her life in a single-car accident. The incident, which involved a Ford Mustang driven by an 18-year-old, was attributed to excessive speed. Jenifer was not wearing a seatbelt and was partially ejected from the vehicle upon impact. The devastating loss led Strait to significantly reduce his interactions with the media, as he and his family sought privacy to grieve.
1986: Start of a Hit Streak
Despite the personal tragedy in 1986, George Strait's musical career continued to soar. He embarked on an incredible run of 11 consecutive number-one hits, commencing with "Nobody in His Right Mind Would've Left Her" in 1986. This streak, spanning four albums, solidified his status as a country music powerhouse.
1987: Ocean Front Property Makes History
George Strait's album "Ocean Front Property" achieved a groundbreaking feat in 1987 by becoming the first country album ever to debut at number one on the charts, marking a historic moment in country music.
1988: Continued Success with "If You Ain't Lovin' You Ain't Livin'"
George Strait maintained his momentum in 1988 with the release of his album "If You Ain't Lovin' You Ain't Livin'," further cementing his dominance in the country music scene.
1989: Strait Wins Consecutive CMA Entertainer of the Year Awards
George Strait was recognized as the Country Music Association's Entertainer of the Year in 1989, marking the beginning of a consecutive win.
1989: CMA Entertainer of the Year
George Strait was recognized for his exceptional talent and influence in country music by being named CMA Entertainer of the Year in 1989.
1989: Beyond the Blue Neon and CMA Entertainer of the Year
George Strait's album "Beyond the Blue Neon" was released in 1989, capping off a remarkable streak of successful albums. His exceptional performance throughout the decade earned him the prestigious CMA Entertainer of the Year award in the same year, an honor he would receive again the following year.
1990: CMA and ACM Entertainer of the Year
George Strait's exceptional year in 1990 was marked by him receiving both the CMA and ACM Entertainer of the Year awards, a testament to his dominance in country music.
1990: Livin' It Up and Chart-Topping Hits
George Strait's tenth studio album, "Livin' It Up," was released in 1990, featuring two remarkable chart-toppers: "Love Without End, Amen," his first multi-week hit, and "I've Come to Expect It From You." Both songs held the number-one position for five consecutive weeks, solidifying Strait's continued success in the new decade.
1990: Strait Wins Second Consecutive CMA Entertainer of the Year Award
In 1990, Strait received his second consecutive CMA Award for Entertainer of the Year.
1991: Chill of an Early Fall: A Shift in Sound
Released in 1991, George Strait's album "Chill of an Early Fall" marked a departure from his previous works, showcasing his versatility as an artist. While it included the number-one hits "If I Know Me" and "You Know Me Better Than That," the album signaled a shift towards exploring different musical avenues.
1992: Strait Stars in "Pure Country"
In 1992, Strait took on a starring role in the film "Pure Country."
1992: Pure Country: A Movie and Soundtrack Triumph
In 1992, George Strait took on the silver screen, starring in the film "Pure Country." He also lent his musical talents to the film's soundtrack, which became his most successful studio album. The soundtrack spawned major hits like "Heartland," "I Cross My Heart," and "When Did You Stop Loving Me," topping the Country charts and reaching number six on the Billboard 200.
1992: Release of "Pure Country"
In 1992, George Strait released "Pure Country," his best-selling album, which achieved remarkable success with 6 million copies sold, earning 6× platinum certification.
1992: Holding My Own: A Solid Release
George Strait's album "Holding My Own" hit the shelves in the spring of 1992. Although it didn't yield any chart-topping singles, the album proved to be a worthy addition to his discography, featuring two top-five songs, including the heartfelt "So Much Like My Dad.
1993: Easy Come, Easy Go: Riding the Wave of Success
George Strait's album "Easy Come, Easy Go" followed the success of "Pure Country" in 1993. The album secured a spot in the top five on the Billboard 200 and featured popular hits such as "I'd Like to Have That One Back," "The Man in Love with You," and the chart-topping title track.
1994: Lead On: Continuing the Chart Domination
George Strait's 1994 album, "Lead On," marked the beginning of another extraordinary run, as it, along with his next three albums, all reached the coveted number one spot on the charts. "Lead On" solidified Strait's consistency in delivering chart-topping hits.
1995: Release of "Strait Out of the Box"
George Strait's "Strait Out of the Box" was released in 1995, becoming his highest-certified album with 2 million copies sold and an 8× Platinum certification, largely attributed to it being a box set comprising four CDs.
1995: Strait Out of the Box: A Retrospective Masterpiece
In 1995, George Strait treated fans to a comprehensive musical journey with the release of "Strait Out of the Box." This four-disc box set served as a retrospective of his career, showcasing his iconic hits and including two new tracks, "I Know She Still Loves Me" and the chart-topping "Check Yes or No." It went on to become one of the best-selling box sets of all time.
1995: Selena's Record-Breaking Astrodome Performance
In 1995, the Astrodome witnessed a historic performance by Latin superstar Selena, who drew an astounding crowd, setting a record for paid attendance at the venue. This event solidified Selena's place as a beloved icon and showcased the Astrodome's capacity for hosting large-scale entertainment events.
1996: Blue Clear Sky: Debut Week at Number One
Adding to his impressive track record, George Strait's album "Blue Clear Sky," released in 1996, made a remarkable debut by claiming the number one position on the charts in its very first week, a testament to his enduring popularity and musical prowess.
1997: CMA's Top Male Vocalist
George Strait's exceptional vocal abilities were recognized in 1997 when he was honored as the CMA's Top Male Vocalist, a testament to his smooth delivery and captivating stage presence.
1997: The George Strait Country Music Festival: Showcasing Rising Stars
In 1997, George Strait launched the George Strait Country Music Festival, an event that ran until 2001. This festival provided a platform for emerging country music artists, with Strait generously sharing the stage with rising stars such as Tim McGraw, Faith Hill, Kenny Chesney, and Alan Jackson.
1997: Carrying Your Love with Me: A Billboard 200 Triumph
In 1997, George Strait's album "Carrying Your Love with Me" not only topped the country charts but also achieved the extraordinary feat of reaching number one on the Billboard 200, a testament to the album's widespread appeal and Strait's crossover success.
1998: The George Strait Country Music Festival: A Touring Success
Despite its limited run, the George Strait Country Music Festival achieved remarkable success, becoming the ninth-highest-grossing tour of 1998. The festival's commitment to showcasing rising stars and visiting new markets resonated with audiences, making it a memorable event in the country music landscape.
1998: One Step at a Time: Maintaining the Winning Streak
George Strait's 1998 album, "One Step at a Time," extended his remarkable streak of number-one albums, solidifying his position as one of country music's most consistent hitmakers.
1998: Another CMA Win for Top Male Vocalist
George Strait's dominance as a vocalist continued in 1998 as he once again claimed the title of CMA's Top Male Vocalist. His ability to convey emotion and connect with audiences through his singing remained unparalleled.
1999: Always Never the Same: A Strong Finish to the Decade
George Strait closed out the 1990s with the release of his album "Always Never the Same." The album reached number two on the country charts and mirrored the crossover success of "Pure Country" by securing the sixth spot on the Billboard 200. Notable hits from the album include "What Do You Say to That," "Meanwhile," and the chart-topping "Write This Down." Strait's ability to consistently deliver hits solidified his position as a country music icon as the 20th century came to a close.
2000: George Strait: A Self-Titled Release
In 2000, George Strait released a self-titled album that, while reaching number one on the country charts and number seven on the Billboard 200, marked a departure from his usual success with singles. It became the first studio album in his career not to achieve platinum certification, though it still showcased his signature sound and musicality.
May 2001: The Road Less Traveled: Experimentation and Acclaim
May 2001 saw the release of "The Road Less Traveled," an album where George Strait incorporated some experimentation while staying true to his country roots. The album garnered positive reviews, with critics praising its fresh elements while maintaining his signature style. "The Road Less Traveled" featured singles like "She'll Leave You with a Smile" - his 50th chart-topper - "Living and Living Well," and "Run," all of which enjoyed success on both country and mainstream charts.
2001: End of the George Strait Country Music Festival
After a successful run of showcasing country music's finest, the George Strait Country Music Festival concluded in 2001, leaving a lasting legacy of memorable performances and a commitment to supporting emerging artists.
2002: Strait Appears in "Grand Champion"
Strait made a cameo appearance as himself in the 2002 film "Grand Champion."
2003: For the Last Time: Live from the Astrodome
In 2003, George Strait etched his name in history by performing at the final Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo held in the iconic Astrodome. The concert, recorded and released as "For the Last Time: Live from the Astrodome," drew a record-breaking paid attendance, surpassing the previous record set by Selena in 1995. This event highlighted Strait's enduring popularity and ability to draw massive crowds.
2004: 50 Number Ones: A Milestone Achievement
Celebrating a remarkable career milestone, George Strait released "50 Number Ones" in 2004. This compilation album commemorated his extraordinary achievement of amassing 50 number-one hits across various music charts. It included a new track, "I Hate Everything," which went on to become his 51st number-one hit, further solidifying his place in country music history.
2004: Honkytonkville: A Return to Roots
Described as a return to his honky-tonk roots, George Strait's album "Honkytonkville" was released in 2004. The album was lauded by critics for its blend of Strait's classic sound with his contemporary artistry, further solidifying his versatility as a musician.
2004: Breaking Records at Reliant Stadium
In 2004, George Strait continued to draw massive crowds, setting a new attendance record at Reliant Stadium during his performance. This achievement demonstrated his enduring popularity and ability to connect with audiences on a grand scale.
May 26, 2006: George Strait Receives Honorary Doctorate
In recognition of his accomplishments and contributions, George Strait was awarded an honorary doctoral degree from his alma mater, Texas State University, in a private ceremony on May 26, 2006.
October 3, 2006: It Just Comes Natural Release
On October 3, 2006, George Strait celebrated his 30th anniversary in the music industry by releasing his album "It Just Comes Natural." Recorded in Key West, Florida, the album received positive reviews and featured hit singles like "Give It Away" and the title track.
2006: Strait Inducted into Country Music Hall of Fame
George Strait was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2006, becoming only the second artist, after Eddy Arnold, to receive this honor while still actively recording and topping music charts. He marked the occasion by performing his then-latest number one hit, "Give It Away", at the 40th CMA Awards.
2006: George Strait Jr. Competes in Rodeo
In 2006, George Strait had the opportunity to watch his son, George Strait Jr., who graduated from Texas A&M, compete as a team roper at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo shortly before performing his own set.
2007: "Wrapped" Hits Number One and Tour with Ronnie Milsap and Taylor Swift
In 2007, George Strait's single "Wrapped" topped the Mediabase 24/7 country music charts. Furthermore, from January to April 2007, he embarked on a 23-date arena tour alongside country music icons Ronnie Milsap and rising star Taylor Swift.
April 1, 2008: Troubadour Release
George Strait released his album "Troubadour" on April 1, 2008. The album featured collaborations with Patty Loveless and Dean Dillon, and its lead single, "I Saw God Today," achieved significant success, debuting high on music charts.
October 2008: Strait Honored as ACM Artist of the Decade
In October 2008, the Academy of Country Music bestowed upon George Strait the prestigious Artist of the Decade award for the 2000s, presented by previous winner Garth Brooks.
April 10, 2009: Passing of Strait's Brother
On April 10, 2009, George Strait's older brother, John Byron "Buddy" Strait, passed away at 58.
April 2009: Academy of Country Music Artist of the Decade Award
In April 2009, George Strait received the prestigious Artist of the Decade Award from the Academy of Country Music. The award was presented to him by Garth Brooks, a previous recipient of this honor.
May 28, 2009: "Living for the Night" Release
Co-written with his son, Bubba, and Dean Dillon, George Strait released "Living for the Night" on May 28, 2009, as the lead single from his forthcoming album, "Twang."
August 11, 2009: Twang Release
George Strait released his album "Twang" on August 11, 2009. The album, which included the single "Living for the Night," achieved gold certification for exceeding 500,000 copies sold.
2009: Strait Sets Record for Most CMA Awards
By 2009, Strait had set a new record for the most CMA Awards won.
2009: Breaking Conway Twitty's Record
George Strait broke Conway Twitty's long-standing record for the most number-one hits on Billboard's Hot Country Songs chart in 2009. His 44 number-one singles surpassed Twitty's 40, establishing Strait's dominance in the genre.
2009: "River of Love" Reaches Number One
In 2009, George Strait's single "River of Love," from his album "Troubadour," became his 57th song to reach the number one spot on music charts.
2009: Death of John "Buddy" Strait Jr.
John "Buddy" Strait Jr., George Strait's brother, passed away in 2009.
January 30, 2010: Death of Doris Jean Couser
Doris Jean Couser, George Strait's mother, passed away on January 30, 2010.
June 8, 2010: Billboard Names Strait Top Country Artist
On June 8, 2010, Billboard recognized George Strait as the top country music artist of the preceding 25 years.
2010: George Strait Partners with Wrangler National Patriot Program
Beginning in 2010, Strait assumed the role of spokesperson for the VF Corporation's Wrangler National Patriot program. This campaign focuses on raising awareness and funds for wounded American veterans and their families. He also appeared in commercials for Tractor Supply Company.
2010: Billboard Top Country Artist Recognition
Billboard recognized George Strait's influence and impact on country music by ranking him number one on their list of the top 25 country artists of the past 25 years.
September 6, 2011: Here for a Good Time Release
On September 6, 2011, George Strait released his album "Here for a Good Time." The album featured two chart-topping singles, "Here for a Good Time" and "Love's Gonna Make It Alright," further solidifying Strait's dominance on country music charts with a total of 59 number-one singles.
February 2012: Strait Becomes a Grandfather
In February 2012, Strait's son, George Strait Jr., and his wife, Tamara, welcomed their first child, a son named George Harvey Strait III, making George Strait a grandfather.
September 26, 2012: Retirement from Touring Announcement and Cowboy Rides Away Tour Begins
On September 26, 2012, George Strait announced his retirement from touring, marking the end of an era for the country music legend. His Cowboy Rides Away Tour, which commenced on January 18, 2013, in Lubbock, Texas, was announced as his final concert tour. The tour was divided into two legs, spanning 2013 and 2014.
October 2012: "Give It All We Got Tonight" Release
In October 2012, George Strait released the single "Give It All We Got Tonight." This release led to the "60 for 60" campaign, aiming to make it his 60th number-one single across all country charts while he was 60 years old.
2012: Creation of the Vaqueros Del Mar Invitational
In 2012, George Strait, alongside his friend and business partner Tom Cusick, established the Vaqueros Del Mar Invitational Golf Tournament and Concert. This annual event, hosted at their Texas Hill Country resort, Tapatio Springs Resort, benefits the Troops First Foundation, supporting wounded service members and their families.
January 18, 2013: Cowboy Rides Away Tour Begins
George Strait embarked on his final concert tour, the Cowboy Rides Away Tour, which began on January 18, 2013, in Lubbock, Texas. The tour, spanning multiple legs, featured Strait's long-time band, the Ace in the Hole Band, and a rotating lineup of opening acts, including Martina McBride.
May 14, 2013: Love Is Everything Release
George Strait's album "Love Is Everything" was released on May 14, 2013.
May 2013: "Give It All We Got Tonight" Tops Charts and CMA Entertainer of the Year Award
In May 2013, George Strait achieved the milestone of his single "Give It All We Got Tonight" reaching the top of the Mediabase charts. Additionally, he was honored with the coveted CMA Entertainer of the Year award in 2013.
June 1, 2013: Strait's Farewell Tour and "George Strait Day"
On June 1, 2013, George Strait performed at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas for 70,000 fans for the last concert in the first leg of his two-year farewell tour. Texas Governor Rick Perry, in attendance with his wife, Anita Thigpen Perry, declared May 18th, Strait's birthday, as "George Strait Day" in Texas.
June 4, 2013: Death of John Byron Strait Sr.
John Byron Strait Sr., George Strait's father, passed away on June 4, 2013.
November 2013: Billboard Legend of Live Award
In November 2013, George Strait received the prestigious Legend of Live honor at the 10th annual Billboard Touring Awards ceremony. This recognition highlighted his significant contributions to the concert industry and his sustained success as a touring artist.
2013: Strait's Record-Breaking CMA Wins
In 2013, Strait achieved a historic milestone by becoming the only artist to win the CMA Entertainer of the Year award in three different decades, also claiming the title of the oldest recipient of the award.
2013: "Give It All We Got Tonight" Breaks Record
George Strait's single "Give It All We Got Tonight" reached number one in 2013, breaking another record previously held by Conway Twitty. This achievement further solidified Strait's status as a record-breaking artist.
2013: Strait's Entertainer of the Year Win Sets New Record
George Strait made history with his 2013 Entertainer of the Year award win. This victory marked the longest span between wins in the award's history.
2013: CMA Entertainer of the Year
After over a decade, George Strait received the CMA Entertainer of the Year award again in 2013, demonstrating his enduring impact on country music.
January 9, 2014: Second Leg of Cowboy Rides Away Tour Begins
The second leg of George Strait's Cowboy Rides Away Tour commenced on January 9, 2014. This leg featured an impressive roster of opening acts, including Jason Aldean, Eric Church, Martina McBride, Miranda Lambert, Little Big Town, Vince Gill, Lee Ann Womack, Merle Haggard, Chris Young, Ronnie Dunn, Luke Bryan, Tim McGraw, Kenny Chesney, Alan Jackson, and Asleep at the Wheel.
June 7, 2014: Cowboy Rides Away Tour Concludes
George Strait's final concert tour, the Cowboy Rides Away Tour, concluded on June 7, 2014, in Arlington, Texas. The tour's last leg featured performances by a star-studded lineup of opening acts, including Jason Aldean, Eric Church, Miranda Lambert, Little Big Town, Vince Gill, and many others.
June 2014: The Cowboy Rides Away Tour's Record-Breaking Finale
In June 2014, George Strait's final concert for The Cowboy Rides Away Tour at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, drew a record-breaking 104,793 attendees. The event marked a historic moment as the largest indoor concert in North America.
August 29, 2014: George Strait: The Cowboy Rides Away CMT Special
The Country Music Television (CMT) channel aired a two-hour concert special titled "George Strait: The Cowboy Rides Away" on August 29, 2014. This special featured footage from Strait's final concert in Arlington, Texas, and included interviews.
September 16, 2014: The Cowboy Rides Away: Live from AT&T Stadium Release
A live album titled "The Cowboy Rides Away: Live from AT&T Stadium" was released on September 16, 2014, capturing the electrifying performance from the final concert of George Strait's Cowboy Rides Away Tour in Arlington, Texas.
November 10, 2014: The Cowboy Rides Away: Live from AT&T Stadium DVD/CD Release
On November 10, 2014, DVD/CD versions of "The Cowboy Rides Away: Live from AT&T Stadium" were released, offering fans a visual and audio experience of George Strait's final concert. Walmart exclusively released a deluxe edition, which included two CDs, providing a more extensive collection of songs from the performance.
2014: ACM Entertainer of the Year
In 2014, George Strait was honored with the ACM Entertainer of the Year award, further solidifying his legendary status within the country music industry.
April 19, 2015: Guest Appearance at the 2015 ACM Awards
George Strait made a special guest appearance at the 2015 ACM Awards on April 19, 2015, where he treated the audience to performances of his classic hit "All My Ex's Live in Texas" and his then-new single "Let It Go."
2016: "Forever Country" Performance
In 2016, George Strait joined a select group of 30 artists for the recording of "Forever Country." This special project featured a medley of classic country songs—"Take Me Home, Country Roads," "On the Road Again," and "I Will Always Love You"—and was created to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the CMA Awards.
January 2018: Strait Named Texan of the Year
In January 2018, the Texas Legislative Conference recognized Strait as the Texan of the Year for his contributions to fundraising efforts following Hurricane Harvey's devastating floods.
2018: "Codigo" Single Release
In 2018, George Strait released the single "Codigo." The song's title was inspired by a brand of tequila produced by a company in which Strait had made an investment, showcasing his entrepreneurial endeavors alongside his music career.
2023: Rolling Stone Recognizes Strait
In 2023, Rolling Stone included George Strait in their "200 Greatest Singers of All Time" list, placing him at number 156.