Leslie Satcher, one of the talented songwriters behind George Strait‘s beloved track “Troubadour,” considers it a true blessing. The song was released as the second single from Strait’s 2008 album of the same name and quickly climbed to the impressive No. 7 spot on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. This achievement marked Strait’s remarkable 79th single to reach the Top 10 on that chart. The incredible songwriting duo of Satcher and Monty Holmes created this gem, with additional production from Tony Brown and the captivating background vocals of country legend Vince Gill.
The journey to crafting “Troubadour” began when Satcher received an unexpected and exciting request from Brown, Strait’s longtime producer. A day before their writing session in 2007, Brown approached Satcher and expressed the need for a song that captured the essence of George Strait. He emphasized that although Strait wasn’t retiring, there was a misconception among people that he might be. Satcher recounted this conversation to her friend and fellow songwriter, Thom Shepherd, explaining that George still felt youthful and continued to pursue his music career with vigor. The challenge was set: they had to create a song that would resonate with Strait’s spirit.
As Satcher and Holmes entered the writing room, they pondered how to start this remarkable piece. Satcher began singing the first two lines, “I still feel 25/Most of the time,” to which Holmes responded with “I still raise a little cain/With the boys.” This exchange ignited their creative flow, and they began crafting each line with enthusiasm. However, when they reached the chorus, they found themselves momentarily stumped for ideas. Inspiration struck Satcher in a truly remarkable way. She describes a moment of divine intervention when, as if guided by an angelic voice, she heard the word “Troubadour” resonating in her ears. Satcher eagerly pitched the title to Holmes, who enthusiastically embraced it. In that magical moment, “Troubadour” was born, a true gift from above. The entire song came together in an astonishingly short period of approximately 35 minutes.
Five years later, in 2012, George Strait announced his retirement from touring. In 2013, he embarked on The Cowboy Rides Away Tour, which concluded in 2014. During this farewell tour, Strait embraced “Troubadour” as his unofficial theme song for the retirement year. He performed it at every concert, much to the delight of his devoted fans. Satcher fondly recalls the overwhelming love and connection the audience had with the song. The track became a source of joy for both the fans and Satcher herself, cementing its special place in their hearts.
“Troubadour” is a captivating composition that showcases the extraordinary talent of George Strait and the remarkable songwriting prowess of Leslie Satcher and Monty Holmes. It stands as a testament to the beauty and power of music, reminding us that some songs are truly divine gifts, shaping our lives and bringing us immeasurable happiness.
Released: 2008
Artist: George Strait
Album: Troubadour
Nominations: Academy of Country Music Award for Visual Media of the Year
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
