On this day September 4 1981, Strait Country, the debut album by George Strait, was released. With its clean production and traditional Texas sound, the album marked the arrival of a future country music legend. It included the hit single Unwound, which became Strait’s first Top 10 hit on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart.
Strait Country rejected the pop crossover trend dominating country music in the late 70s and early 80s, bringing a back-to-basics style that resonated with fans who missed the genre’s roots. The album introduced George Strait’s signature blend of smooth vocals, simple arrangements, and authentic storytelling.
80s insight: Strait Country helped usher in the neotraditional country movement, making George Strait one of the most influential artists of the decade and paving the way for a major shift in the genre.
Strait Country rejected the pop crossover trend dominating country music in the late 70s and early 80s, bringing a back-to-basics style that resonated with fans who missed the genre’s roots. The album introduced George Strait’s signature blend of smooth vocals, simple arrangements, and authentic storytelling.
80s insight: Strait Country helped usher in the neotraditional country movement, making George Strait one of the most influential artists of the decade and paving the way for a major shift in the genre.
