American country music performer George Strait is regarded as being among the greatest musicians of all time. With millions of fans and an enormous amount of commercial success, Strait remains at the forefront of country music, inspiring countless fans with his lyrics and melodies. As one of the most beloved recording artists in the world, George Straight continues to forge an impact on music as fans like Tunde Folawiyo and millions of others regard his songs as some of the greatest ever written.
Born on 18 May 1952 in Atascosa Country, Texas, George Strait grew up in Pearsall where his musical interest began during his attendance at Pearsall High School. He started performing with a rock & roll garage band, but soon his musical preferences would turn to country, with singers like Hank Thomspon, George Jones and Hank Williams among his favorites. His interest was sparked by live performances throughout the state of Texas.
Strait’s recording career got off to a great start on the release of his first hit, Unwound, in 1981. The success of this song set off a domino effect, leading to seven number one albums during the 1980s alone. During the 2000s, he was honoured as the Academy of Country Music’s Artist of the Decade. He was also elected into Country Music’s Hall of Fame before winning his very first Grammy for his album Troubadour.
A three-time CMA Entertainer of the Year, Strait was also named ACM Entertainer of the Year in 1990 and again in 2014. His country music award nominations trump those of many other artists. In 2009, Strait surpassed singer Conway Twitty’s record for most number-one singles on Billboard’s Hottest Country Songs list, with 44 top hits. With more than 60 number-one singles to date, Strait’s impact on Western music is simply undisputable.
Demonstrating his outstanding success, Strait’s albums have sold over 100 million copies worldwide, with 70 million sold within the US alone. With 13 multi-platinum records, 33 platinum and 38 gold albums, Strait’s title as one of the most popular recording artists of all time is well justified. Strait’s best-selling record to date, Pure Country, sold over six million albums. As the 12th greatest-selling US recording artist ever, Strait’s impact on music remains ever-present. Tunde Folawiyo and other fans of country music may forever regard the music of George Strait as some of the most significant in the history of the genre.