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13 June 2025

Content Staff

Amarillo by Morning – George Strait

Amarillo by Morning – George Strait

Background “Amarillo by Morning” is a song written by Terry Stafford and Paul Fraser and originally recorded by Stafford in 1973. However, it is George Strait’s 1982 version from his album Strait From the Heart that cemented the song’s place in country music history and made it a signature tune for the “King of Country.” The song tells the story of a weary rodeo cowboy reflecting on the hardships and transient nature of his chosen lifestyle. Terry Stafford, a singer-songwriter known for his 1964 hit “Suspicion” (later covered by Elvis Presley), co-wrote “Amarillo by Morning” with Paul Fraser. Stafford’s original

13 June 2025

Content Staff

All My Ex’s Live in Texas – George Strait

All My Ex’s Live in Texas – George Strait

Background “All My Ex’s Live in Texas” is a country music song written by Dean Dillon and Hank Cochran. It was first recorded by George Strait in 1987 and released as the second single from his album Ocean Front Property. The song quickly became a massive hit, topping the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart for two weeks and solidifying Strait’s position as one of country music’s biggest stars. The song’s concept, though simple, resonated with audiences. It tells the story of a heartbroken narrator who laments that all of his former romantic partners reside in the same state

13 June 2025

Content Staff

Check Yes or No – George Strait

Check Yes or No – George Strait

Background “Check Yes or No” is a country music song written by Dean Dillon and Jimmy Dean Black. It was first recorded by George Strait in 1986 and released as the first single from his album Blue Clear Sky. The song quickly became a massive hit, topping the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart for three weeks and solidifying Strait’s position as one of country music’s biggest stars. The song’s concept revolves around a simple but effective premise: a man is trying to decide whether or not to propose marriage to his girlfriend. He grapples with the anxieties and

13 June 2025

Content Staff

Willie Nelson – Blue Eyes Crying In the Rain (Live From Austin City Limits, 1976)

Willie Nelson – Blue Eyes Crying In the Rain (Live From Austin City Limits, 1976)

Background “Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain” is a country music standard with a rich history, predating Willie Nelson’s iconic rendition. The song was written by Fred Rose in 1945 and first recorded by Roy Acuff that same year. Acuff’s version, delivered in his signature mournful style, became a hit and helped establish the song’s place in the country music canon. Rose, a prolific songwriter and music publisher, was a key figure in the development of country music. He co-founded Acuff-Rose Music, one of the most important publishing houses in the genre’s history. Rose’s songwriting was characterized by its simplicity,

13 June 2025

Content Staff

Willie Nelson – Me and You

Willie Nelson – Me and You

Background “Me and You” is a song written and performed by Willie Nelson. While not as widely known as some of his signature hits like “Crazy” or “On the Road Again,” “Me and You” occupies a significant place within his extensive catalog, showcasing his songwriting prowess and his ability to convey deep emotion through simple, direct lyrics. The song first appeared on Nelson’s 1983 album Pancho & Lefty, a collaborative project with fellow country music legend Merle Haggard. This album was a significant release for both artists, showcasing their combined talents and solidifying their status as icons of the outlaw

9 June 2025

Content Staff

Walk On By – Dionne Warwick (1964)

Walk On By – Dionne Warwick (1964)

“Walk On By” occupies a truly iconic and significant place in the history of popular music, particularly within the context of the early to mid-1960s. Released in 1964, Dionne Warwick’s rendition of the song became an instant hit, solidifying her status as a major pop vocalist and establishing the song as a timeless classic. The song is a perfect example of the songwriting brilliance of Burt Bacharach (music) and Hal David (lyrics), and it also showcases Warwick’s unique ability to convey both vulnerability and strength in her performances. It is more than just a simple pop song; it is a

9 June 2025

Content Staff

Anyone Who Had a Heart – Dionne Warwick (1963)

Anyone Who Had a Heart – Dionne Warwick (1963)

“Anyone Who Had a Heart” occupies a pivotal and cherished place in the history of popular music, particularly within the context of the early 1960s. Released in 1963, Dionne Warwick’s rendition of the song became a defining hit, solidifying her status as a major pop vocalist and establishing the song as a timeless classic. It is a perfect example of the songwriting genius of Burt Bacharach (music) and Hal David (lyrics), and it also showcases Warwick’s unique ability to convey deep emotion with both vulnerability and strength. The song is more than just a simple pop ballad; it’s a sophisticated

9 June 2025

Content Staff

Willie Nelson – Always On My Mind

Willie Nelson – Always On My Mind

**Background** “Always On My Mind” is one of Willie Nelson’s most iconic songs, released in 1982 as part of his album *Always on My Mind*. The song was written by Johnny Christopher, Mark James, and Wayne Carson. Although it was originally recorded by Brenda Lee in 1972 and subsequently covered by several artists, it was Nelson’s version that brought the song to the forefront of country music and solidified its place in American popular music history. The song was a massive success for Willie Nelson, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and earning critical acclaim across

9 June 2025

Content Staff

Willie Nelson – Just Breathe

**Background** “Just Breathe” is a song performed by American country music legend Willie Nelson. Released in 2020, this track appears as part of his album *First Rose of Spring*, which is his 70th studio album. Willie Nelson, known for his distinct voice and contributions to country, outlaw country, and Americana music, has had a long and illustrious career that spans more than six decades. In *First Rose of Spring*, Nelson explores themes of love, loss, reflection, and human connection, and “Just Breathe” is a prime example of this. This song stands out as one of the more introspective tracks on

9 June 2025

Content Staff

Paul Anka – Put Your Head On My Shoulder

Paul Anka – Put Your Head On My Shoulder

About The Song Paul Anka’s “Put Your Head On My Shoulder,” released in 1959, is a timeless ballad that has captivated audiences for generations. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its poignant lyrics, comforting melody, and Anka’s heartfelt delivery. The opening lines, “When things go wrong, as they often will, / Just keep on smiling, just keep on trying,” offer a message of resilience and hope. The subsequent verses delve deeper into themes of companionship, support, and unconditional love. Anka’s vocals are both tender and powerful, conveying a sense of sincerity and empathy. The song’s arrangement, featuring lush strings and