Unveiling the Tale Behind George Strait’s Iconic Hit: “The Chair”
Written by Hank Cochran and Dean Dillon, George Strait‘s chart-topping hit “The Chair” is a story woven with serendipity and creative synergy. The journey of how this timeless classic came to life is a testament to the unpredictability of artistic inspiration.
Back in the mid-’80s, George Strait was riding a wave of success, with platinum albums flowing effortlessly from his collaboration with longtime producer Jimmy Bowen. Bowen, along with his production assistant Don Lanier, often found themselves intrigued by George’s song choices. They made it a game to predict which tunes he’d favor or reject, but their batting average was hardly impressive. However, when it came to “The Chair,” Bowen was convinced that George wouldn’t be interested. Little did he know how wrong he would be!
From the moment George Strait heard “The Chair,” he was captivated. It was the ninth Dean Dillon composition to grace his albums, the fourth to be released as a single, and the first to soar to the coveted number one spot on the charts.
The enchanting genesis of “The Chair” transpired on the deck of Hank Cochran’s boat, aptly named “The Legend,” off the coast of Palm Beach, Florida. Dean Dillon had ventured there with a single purpose: to collaborate with Cochran on new songs. After crafting about four tunes together, inspiration seemed to elude them. They found themselves in a creative lull, staring at each other until Dillon spontaneously uttered the famous opening line, “Well, excuse me, but I think you’ve got my chair.” And just like that, the magic began.
Jimmy Bowen’s willingness to grant George Strait greater artistic freedom played a pivotal role in “The Chair” finding its way into George’s repertoire. Early in their partnership, Bowen decided to let George take the reins when it came to selecting and arranging his material, allowing him to work directly with the musicians to achieve the sound he envisioned. This shift in creative control would prove to be a game-changer.
“The Chair” marked a turning point in George Strait’s career. It catapulted him into a streak of twelve consecutive Top Ten hits and became the seventh of his record-breaking 60 number one singles. Whether you charted it on Billboard or other music charts, “The Chair” stood tall at the pinnacle of success, reaching its zenith on December 21, 1985.
In the end, this charming song’s journey from a chance encounter on a boat to the top of the music world epitomizes the beauty of artistic serendipity and the enduring appeal of George Strait’s musical legacy. “The Chair” remains a cherished classic that continues to captivate audiences with its timeless charm.
Released: 1985
Artist: George Strait
Album: Something Special
Lyrics
Well, excuse me, but I think you’ve got my chair
No, that one’s not taken, I don’t mind if you sit here
I’ll be glad to share
Yeah, it’s usually packed here on Friday nights
Oh, if you don’t mind, could I talk you out of a light?
Well, thank you, could I drink you a buy?
Oh, listen to me, what I mean is, can I buy you a drink?
Anything you please
Oh, you’re welcome, well, I don’t think I caught your name
Are you waiting for someone to meet you here?
Well, that makes two of us, glad you came
No, I don’t know the name of the band
But they’re good, aren’t they?
Would you like to dance?
Yeah, I like this song too, it reminds me of you and me, baby
Do you think there’s a chance that later on I could drive you home?
No, I don’t mind at all
Oh, I like you too, and to tell you the truth
That wasn’t my chair after all
Oh, I like you too, and to tell you the truth
That wasn’t my chair after all
