Introduction:

George Strait, the “King of Country,” has built a career on his impeccable vocal delivery and his ability to tell stories through his music. “What Goes Up,” a poignant track from his 1997 album Blue Clear Sky, exemplifies this artistry. The song, penned by Larry Cordle and Tia Sillers, is a melancholic reflection on the cyclical nature of life, a poignant reminder that every high is inevitably followed by a low.

Strait’s baritone voice, rich and resonant, perfectly captures the song’s contemplative mood. He narrates with a weary wisdom, acknowledging the inevitable twists and turns of fate. The lyrics, simple yet profound, resonate deeply with listeners, evoking a sense of nostalgia and acceptance. Lines like “What goes up must come down, that’s the way it’s always been” and “The sun shines bright, then the shadows creep in” paint a picture of life’s impermanence, reminding us to cherish the good times and to weather the storms with grace.

“What Goes Up” is more than just a country song; it’s a philosophical reflection on the human condition. It speaks to the universal experiences of joy and sorrow, of triumph and defeat. Strait’s delivery, devoid of any unnecessary embellishment, allows the song’s raw emotion to shine through. The result is a timeless piece that continues to resonate with audiences today, a testament to Strait’s enduring legacy as one of country music’s greatest storytellers.

This introduction aims to capture the essence of “What Goes Up” while inviting readers to delve deeper into the song’s meaning and appreciate Strait’s artistry. It highlights the song’s key themes, musicality, and its enduring appeal.

Video:

You Missed

ALAN HALTED HIS OWN PERFORMANCE — AND LEFT PRODUCERS STUNNED IN SILENCE. The awards show was choreographed down to the last second. On a live national broadcast, there was no room for mistakes — especially not during one of country music’s biggest nights. Everything was scripted. Everything was controlled. But Alan Jackson has never been an artist who prioritizes protocol over principle. Earlier that evening, producers informed George Jones — a towering figure in country music — that his iconic song would be reduced to a brief, edited segment. No full performance. No proper tribute. Just a fragment. Alan didn’t argue. He didn’t protest. He simply listened. Then it was his turn to take the stage. Alan walked out and launched into his hit “Pop a Top.” The band was tight. The audience relaxed. It felt routine — exactly as rehearsed. Until, midway through the song, Alan abruptly stopped singing. The band hesitated. The room shifted. Confusion rippled through the crowd. Then Alan gave a subtle cue. Without warning, the musicians transitioned into the unmistakable opening of “Choices” — George Jones’ deeply personal anthem. The atmosphere changed instantly. Alan delivered the song not just as a cover, but as a statement — a gesture of defiance wrapped in reverence. It was both tribute and protest, honoring a legend whose moment had been diminished only minutes before. In that unscripted pivot, Alan Jackson turned a tightly controlled broadcast into a defining act of respect. What producers feared as disruption became one of the most talked-about moments in country music history. And as cameras swept across the audience, few realized what George Jones did in his seat that night — a quiet reaction that made the moment even more powerful.