Introduction:
After more than four decades and 39 albums, George Strait remains a powerful force in country music—a symbol of authenticity, tradition, and timeless talent. But today, the King of Country is making headlines for more than just a new record. This February, George Strait will take on one of life’s greatest roles: becoming a grandfather.
“I’m very excited,” Strait says with a smile. “Norma’s really excited too. Everyone says being a grandparent is the greatest thing, and I’m sure it will be.” As for what the little one will call him? “I like Granddaddy… or maybe Papa. But honestly, it’ll probably be whatever the kid comes up with,” he laughs. “That’s part of the fun.”
Yet even amid this joyful personal milestone, Strait hasn’t slowed down musically. His newest album brings not just a collection of new songs but also a deep sense of pride—especially because many of the tracks were co-written with his son, Bubba, and longtime collaborator Dean Dillon.
Strait reflects on this renewed songwriting journey: “Early in my career, I used to write a bit, but I didn’t record many of my own songs. Over time, I lost the motivation to write. Then one night, Bubba called and said, ‘Dad, I think I wrote a good song.’ It was called Arkansas Dave. He played it for me over the phone, and I thought, ‘That’s actually pretty good, BB.’ That call was the spark.”
From that moment, father and son began writing together. “I said, ‘Let’s get Dean in on this too—it’ll be fun.’ And it really has been. It lit a fire in me again. I’m proud of what we’ve created.”
Strait is quick to note that writing with Bubba hasn’t just reignited his creativity—it’s been a deeply meaningful experience as a father. “I’m proud of Bubba for stepping into this world. Writing songs together and then seeing them on the record—that’s incredibly rewarding.”
One standout from the new album is the title track, Here for a Good Time. The idea came from Bubba, who pitched the line: “I’m not here for a long time, I’m here for a good time.” George and Dean loved it instantly. “It was the first song we wrote for the project. It just felt right.”
Although Strait remains open about whether he’ll write for his next album—“only if they’re good enough,” he chuckles—one thing is clear: the songs on this record come from a place of joy, connection, and a rekindled passion for the craft.
Whether it’s collaborating with his son, looking forward to grandfatherhood, or simply delivering songs that speak to the soul, George Strait proves once again that he’s not just here for a long time—or a good time—he’s here to make it all count.