I Hate Everything – George Strait

Introduction:

“I Hate Everything” by George Strait was released in 2004 as part of his compilation album 50 Number Ones, which celebrated his unprecedented career achievement of having 50 chart-topping hits. The song was written by Gary Harrison and Keith Stegall, two respected figures in country music songwriting and production. Known for its reflective tone, the song follows the narrator, who meets a man at a bar deeply embittered by life’s hardships, particularly his recent divorce. This stranger’s frustrations prompt the narrator to reconsider his own life and relationships, leading to a more hopeful conclusion.

Musically, “I Hate Everything” fits within Strait’s signature neo-traditionalist country style, blending contemporary and classic elements. It achieved significant commercial success, topping the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and resonating with fans for its relatable and emotional storyline. Strait’s warm, understated vocal delivery is a perfect match for the song’s message of regret, reflection, and ultimately, reconciliation​.

The song adds to George Strait’s legacy as one of the most successful and beloved artists in country music history, showing his ability to connect deeply with listeners through heartfelt storytelling.

Video:

Lyrics:

“I Hate Everything”

He was sitting there beside me throwing doubles down
When he ordered up his third one he looked around
Then he looked at me, said I do believe I’ll have one more
He said I hate this bar and I hate to drink
But on second thought tonight I think I hate everythingThen he opened up his bill-fold and threw a 20 down
And the faded photograph fell out and hit the ground
And I picked it up, he said thank you bud, I put it in his hand
He said I probably ought to throw this one away
‘Cause she’s the reason I feel this way, I hate everything

I hate my job, I hate my life and if it weren’t for my two kids I’d hate my ex-wife
I know I should move on and try to start again
But I just can’t get over her leaving me for him
Then he shook his head and looked down at his ring and said I hate everything

He said one bedroom apartment where I get my mail
Is really not a home, it’s more like a jail
With a swimming pool and a parking lot view, man that’s just great
I hate summer, winter, fall and spring
Red and yellow, purple, blue and green, I hate everything

So I pulled out my phone and I called my house
I said babe I’m comin’ home, we’re gonna work this out
I paid for his drinks and I told him thanks, thanks for everything