“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Scotty McCreery’s “Damn Strait” is a heartfelt homage to country legend George Strait, weaving a tale of love and loss through the lens of Strait’s iconic songs. Written by Trent Tomlinson and Jim Collins, the track stands out on McCreery’s Same Truck album as one of the few he didn’t pen himself. Yet, its clever wordplay and deep reverence for Strait’s work made it an irresistible choice for McCreery, a lifelong fan.
The song narrates the story of a man whose cherished memories with a former lover are intertwined with George Strait’s music. Each Strait song becomes a poignant reminder of his past relationship, making it painful to listen without rekindling old heartaches. This narrative is enriched by references to Strait’s classics like “Nobody in His Right Mind Would’ve Left Her” and “Marina del Rey,” adding layers of nostalgia and emotion.
McCreery’s connection to George Strait runs deep. His first concert experience was a Strait performance, which inspired his own musical aspirations. During his American Idol journey, McCreery even performed “Check Yes or No,” personally chosen by Strait. Recording “Damn Strait” allowed McCreery to pay tribute to his idol, a gesture that Strait acknowledged with appreciation, expressing his love for the song and gratitude for the tribute.
The accompanying music video, filmed at Texas’ historic Gruene Hall—a venue significant to Strait’s early career—further cements the song’s homage. McCreery felt that shooting the video there was essential, capturing the aura of Strait’s legacy.
“Damn Strait” not only showcases McCreery’s vocal prowess but also serves as a bridge connecting country music’s rich past with its present, resonating with fans who hold George Strait’s music close to their hearts.
Video
Lyrics
“Nobody In His Right Mind Would’ve Left Her”
That was her favorite song
She sang along every time it came on
First time we danced was to Marina Del Rey
And I fell right there and then
I didn’t want that song to end
Baby blue was the color of her eyes
I can still see them in my mind
Probably will for the rest of my life
Damn Strait, you’re killing me man
You know I’ve always been your biggest fan
Now I can’t even listen
‘Cause I’ll get to missin’ her
Then the hurt gets worse
Damn Strait, I used to love your songs
But now every time that one comes on
My heart gets broke in half
But do I wish I could get her back?
Damn Strait
The other day right out of a blue clear sky
You came on in my truck
I couldn’t turn it off fast enough
I tried to get back in the game
But this ole heart just ain’t the same
Hell I can’t even give it away
Damn Strait, you’re killing me man
You know I’ve always been your biggest fan
Now I can’t even listen
‘Cause I’ll get to missin’ her
Then the hurt gets worse
Damn Strait, I used to love your songs
But now every time that one comes on
My heart gets broke in half
But do I wish I could get her back?
Damn Strait
I know it ain’t your fault
That she left me
And you know you’ll always be the king
But right now, I hate everything
Damn Strait, you’re killing me man
You know I’ve always been your biggest fan
Now I can’t even listen
‘Cause I’ll get to missin’ her
Then the hurt gets worse
Damn Strait, I used to love your songs
But now every time that one comes on
My heart gets broke in half
But do I wish I could get her back?
Damn Strait
Damn Strait
“Nobody In His Right Mind Would’ve Left Her”
That was her favorite song
She sang along every time it came on