George Strait – What Do You Say to That

Strait’s music isn’t about pyrotechnics or vocal acrobatics; it’s about weaving relatable stories into melodies that linger long after the last note fades. This is precisely the case with “What Do You Say to That,” a track nestled on his 1999 album, Always Never the Same.

Background

While “What Do You Say to That” wasn’t a chart-topping single, it stands as a prime example of Strait’s ability to transform a seemingly simple song into a poignant exploration of love’s complexities. The composition itself is a collaborative effort between Jim Lauderdale and Melba Montgomery.

Lauderdale, a respected singer-songwriter in his own right, recorded the song first on his 1997 album, Whisper. However, it was Strait’s interpretation that truly brought the song to life.

“What Do You Say to That” opens with a gentle guitar strumming a familiar chord progression. This sets the stage for Strait’s signature understated delivery. The lyrics paint a picture of a relationship on uncertain ground. The narrator grapples with unspoken feelings and mixed signals from his partner.

Lines like “Lately you been walkin’ round with a question in your eyes” and “Something’s changed, I can feel it hangin’ in the air” establish a sense of unease. The narrator seems to be waiting for a revelation, a truth that his partner hesitates to share.

The heart of the song lies in the repeated refrain, “What Do You Say to That?”. This simple question, delivered with a hint of vulnerability, hangs heavy in the air.

It’s a plea for honesty, a desperate attempt to understand what’s brewing beneath the surface. The lack of response from the partner only amplifies the tension, leaving the listener to ponder the fate of this troubled relationship.

“What Do You Say to That” isn’t a song about grand declarations or dramatic breakups. It’s a quiet contemplation of the unspoken anxieties that can plague even the most established relationships.

Strait’s masterful delivery captures the emotional weight of unspoken words, the frustration of miscommunication, and the yearning for clarity. The song resonates with anyone who has ever felt lost in the labyrinth of love, unsure of the next step or the words to say.