Introduction:
Troubadour, released in 2008, is the title track to Strait’s twenty-fifth studio album of the same name. This project marked a significant achievement for Strait, being the first album entirely produced by himself alongside Tony Brown. Troubadour falls squarely within the realm of traditional country music, showcasing Strait’s signature smooth vocals and storytelling lyrics over a bed of classic country instrumentation. The album features twelve tracks, including two notable duets: “The Breath You Take Away” with Lee Ann Womack and “It Just Comes Natural” with Tim McGraw.
Troubadour, the song, was penned by songwriters Leslie Satcher and Monty Holmes. It was strategically chosen as the album’s second single following the lead-off track “I Saw God Today”. This strategic decision proved successful, as Troubadour the song became a hit, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. The song further solidified Strait’s place as a country music legend, garnering him a nomination for Best Male Country Vocal Performance at the 51st Grammy Awards. While Strait did not take home the award for that specific category, Troubadour, the album, did win the prestigious Grammy Award for Best Country Album, marking Strait’s first Grammy win after a long and successful career.
Troubadour, both the song and the album, represents a pinnacle moment in Strait’s artistic journey. It showcases not only his timeless vocals and songwriting prowess, but also his keen understanding of the country music genre and his ability to deliver high-quality music that resonates with fans. The song’s success, along with the critical acclaim of the album, cemented Strait’s legacy as a country music icon.
Even after its release, Troubadour continues to be a fan favorite and a staple of Strait’s live performances. You can find live renditions of the song on YouTube, including a performance from the historic Gruene Hall in Texas.
Video:
Lyrics:
I still feel 25,Most of the time.I still raise a little cain with the boys.Honky tonk and pretty woman.Lord I’m still right there with them.Singing above the crowd and the noise.
Sometimes I feel like Jesse James,Still trying to make a name.Knowing nothings gonna change what I am.I was a young troubadour,When I rode in on a song.And I’ll be an old troubadour,When I’m gone.
Well, The truth about a mirror,It’s that a damn old mirrow.Don’t really tell the whole truth,It don’t show what’s deep inside.Oh read between the lines,It’s really no reflection of my youth.
I was a young troubadour,When I rode in on a song.And I’ll be an old troubadour,When I’m gone.I’ll be an old troubadour,When I’m gone