For more than four decades, George Strait has been a steady, almost mythical figure in country music — revered for his timeless voice, quiet humility, and unwavering dedication to tradition. But in a recent rare and emotional moment, the man known as the “King of Country” finally opened up about something deeply personal: the five artists who left a permanent mark on his heart and career.
And for the first time, fans are learning what he’s kept to himself for years.
“I’ve never been one to talk too much,” George admitted. “But some names deserve to be said out loud.”
In a candid interview, George revealed the five country icons who, in his words, “shaped everything I became — as a singer, as a man, and as a believer in this music.”
The first name? Merle Haggard.
“He had grit and grace,” George said. “Every time I heard Merle sing, I knew I had a lot more to learn.”
Then came George Jones, whom George Strait called “the voice that could break your heart in three notes.”
“There will never be another Possum,” he said quietly. “I still miss him.”
He also spoke of Reba McEntire, with deep respect and warmth.
“She brought power and feeling like nobody else. She pushed boundaries with class,” George said.
The fourth was Alan Jackson, one of the few who rose alongside him — and whom George considers not just a peer, but a brother.
“He always kept it country. And he always kept it real.”
And finally, his greatest inspiration of all: his father.
“He didn’t sing on a stage. But he taught me the music that mattered,” George said, emotion in his voice. “He gave me the first songs I ever loved.”
For decades, fans have wondered who George Strait truly looked up to — whose music moved him in the quiet moments, off the stage, away from the lights. And now, they have their answer.
“I owe more than I could ever say to those five,” he said. “They helped build this road I’ve been blessed to walk.”
It’s a rare and beautiful thing when a legend like George Strait pulls back the curtain — not for fame, not for headlines, but simply to honor those who walked before him.
For fans, it’s a moment of connection. A reminder that even kings have heroes.
And if you’ve ever felt something deeper in George Strait’s voice… now you know why.