George Strait's Success and Achievements in Timeline

A closer look at the biggest achievements of George Strait. Awards, milestones, and records that define success.

George Strait is an American country music icon celebrated for his traditional sound and consistent success. Known as the "King of Country," he has achieved a remarkable number of number-one hits and platinum-selling albums, shaping the landscape of country music for decades. Beyond his musical achievements, Strait has also dabbled in acting, further cementing his status as a prominent figure in American entertainment. His dedication to traditional country roots has earned him a devoted fanbase and critical acclaim.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

1981: "Unwound" becomes a Hit

In 1981, George Strait's first single "Unwound" became a hit, marking the start of his mainstream success and helping introduce the neotraditional movement to country music.

Loading Video...

May 26, 2006: Honorary Doctoral Degree

On May 26, 2006, George Strait was presented an honorary doctoral degree by Texas State University in San Marcos.

October 3, 2006: Release of "It Just Comes Natural" album

On October 3, 2006, George Strait celebrated his 30th year in the music industry with the release of his album, "It Just Comes Natural". The album, recorded in Key West, Florida, featured 15 new songs and received generally positive reviews. The first single, "Give It Away", reached number one, and the title track also became a number one hit.

Loading Video...

2006: Inducted into Country Music Hall of Fame

In 2006, George Strait was elected into the Country Music Hall of Fame, performing "Give it Away" before accepting his plaque at the 40th CMA Awards.

October 2008: Artist of the Decade

In October 2008, George Strait was named the Artist of the Decade for the 2000s by the Academy of Country Music Awards, presented by Garth Brooks.

April 2009: Receives Artist of the Decade Award

In April 2009, George Strait was honored with the Artist of the Decade Award by the Academy of Country Music. The award was presented by Garth Brooks.

2009: Record for Most CMA Awards

As of 2009, George Strait holds the record for the most CMA awards.

June 8, 2010: Top Country Artist of Past 25 Years

On June 8, 2010, George Strait was named the top country-music artist of the past 25 years according to Billboard.

2010: Ranked Number One Country Artist by Billboard

In 2010, Billboard ranked George Strait as the number one country artist of the past 25 years.

May 2013: "Give It All We Got Tonight" reaches number one

In May 2013, George Strait's song "Give It All We Got Tonight" reached the top of the Mediabase charts, after a campaign initiated by Strait's label to get the song to number one before his 60th birthday. Also, George Strait won the 2013 CMA Entertainer of the Year award.

Loading Video...

November 2013: Billboard Legend of Live honor

In November 2013, George Strait was presented with Billboard's Legend of Live honor during the 10th annual Billboard Touring Awards ceremony. He is the first country artist to receive this accolade.

January 2018: Named 2018 Texan of the Year

In January 2018, George Strait was named the 2018 Texan of the Year by the Texas Legislative Conference for his fundraising efforts following Hurricane Harvey.

June 15, 2024: Breaks Record for Most Fans at U.S. Concert

On June 15, 2024, George Strait broke the record for most fans at a U.S. concert by a single headlining act, with 110,905 fans attending his concert at Kyle Field at Texas A&M University in College Station, Texas.

2024: Record for Largest Ticketed Concert

In mid-2024, George Strait set the record for the largest ticketed concert for a single act in U.S. history, with over 110,905 people at Kyle Field in College Station, Texas.