George Strait Reigns Again: A 1986 No. 1 Hit With a Song That Almost Slipped Away
On this day in 1986, country legend George Strait reached the No. 1 spot on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart with a powerful rendition of a song that had quietly debuted six years earlier. The track? A heartfelt ballad penned by iconic songwriter Dean Dillon, whose genius has long been intertwined with Strait’s success.
Background
Originally released by a lesser-known artist in 1980, the song didn’t make much noise—until Strait breathed new life into it with his signature blend of smooth baritone, Western swing, and Texas charm. His 1986 version not only climbed to the top of the charts but also cemented the track’s place in country music history.
The collaboration between George Strait and Dean Dillon is one of the most prolific and impactful in country music. Dillon, who co-wrote more than 60 songs for Strait—including hits like “The Chair” and “Ocean Front Property”—crafted lyrics that matched Strait’s stoic yet emotional delivery like a glove. This particular cover was a standout, blending traditional country storytelling with a polished, radio-ready sound that defined Strait’s rise in the ’80s.
Introduction
🎤 Fun fact: George Strait had such deep admiration for Dean Dillon’s songwriting that he later insisted on recording one of his songs for almost every album. Their creative bond helped shape the neotraditional country wave and introduced a new generation to the roots of the genre.
This No. 1 hit came at a time when Strait was establishing himself as a mainstay on the charts, and it showcased his ability to take a song with history and give it new purpose, new voice, and new heart. For many fans, this version became the definitive recording—timeless, deeply relatable, and quintessentially Strait.
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
[Verse 1]
Well, excuse me
But I think you’ve got my chair
No, that one is not taken
I don’t mind if you sit here, I’ll be glad to share
Yeah, it’s usually packed here on Friday nights
Oh, if you don’t mind, could I talk you out of a light?[Verse 2]
Well, thank you, could I drink you a buy?
Oh, listen to me, what I mean is can I buy you a drink?
Anything you please
Oh, you’re welcome, well, I don’t think I caught your name
Are you waiting for someone to meet you here?
Well, that makes two of us, glad you came[Verse 3]
No, I don’t know the name of the band, but they’re good
Aren’t they, would you like to dance?
Yeah, I like this song too, it reminds me of you and me
Baby, do you think there is a chance
That later on I could drive you home?
No, I do not mind at all
Oh, I like you too, and to tell you the truth
That wasn’t my chair after all
[Outro]
Oh, I like you too, and to tell you the truth
That wasn’t my chair after all