George Strait – Take Me Back to Tulsa

George Strait, the undisputed “King of Country Music,” possesses an uncanny ability to transport listeners to different times and places. His rendition of “Take Me Back to Tulsa” is a masterful example of this artistry.

Originally a swing standard popularized by Bob Wills and His Texas Playboys, Strait’s version is a reimagined masterpiece that seamlessly fuses traditional country elements with contemporary production techniques.

Background

Strait’s deep, resonant voice is the ideal instrument for delivering the song’s evocative lyrics. His vocal performance is both intimate and commanding, drawing listeners into the heart of the song’s narrative.

The subtle nuances in his delivery, such as the emphasis on “Tulsa time” or “neon lights,” imbue the lyrics with an added layer of emotional depth and longing.

The musical arrangement is a cornerstone of the song’s enduring appeal. The steel guitar, a quintessential country instrument, takes center stage, its melancholic yet hopeful tone perfectly mirroring the song’s nostalgic theme.

The rhythm section provides a steady, propulsive force, driving the listener forward, while the subtle instrumentation creates a rich sonic tapestry. The masterful balance between traditional and contemporary elements results in a sound that is both familiar and refreshingly modern.

The lyrics of “Take Me Back to Tulsa” conjure a vivid picture of a bygone era, capturing the essence of yearning and the allure of simpler times.

The imagery is both specific and universal, resonating with listeners who have experienced the pull of home and the desire to return to a place where they feel a sense of belonging.

Video

Lyrics

🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤

Take me back to Tulsa, I’m too young to marry
Take me back to Tulsa, I’m too young to marry

You see that girl with the red dress on
Some folks call her Dinah
Stoled my heart away from me
Way down in Louisiana

Take me back to Tulsa, I’m too young to marry
Take me back to Tulsa, I’m too young to marry

The big bee sucks the blossom
And the little bee makes the honey
Poor man throws the cotton
And the rich man makes the money

Take me back to Tulsa, I’m too young to marry
Take me back to Tulsa, I’m too young to marry

We travel all over this country wide
Playing music by the hour
Always wear this great big smile
We never do look sour