George Strait – Check Yes Or No (Official Music Video)

Introduction:

Released in September 1995, “Check Yes Or No” became a signature song for country music legend George Strait. This heartwarming ballad, penned by songwriters Danny Wells and Dana Hunt Black, transcends generations with its relatable tale of childhood romance blossoming into a lasting love. The song, the lead single from Strait’s box set “Strait Out of the Box”, quickly climbed the charts, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and staying there for four consecutive weeks.

“Check Yes Or No” showcases Strait’s signature smooth vocals and storytelling prowess. The song takes listeners on a nostalgic journey, beginning with the narrator reminiscing about his childhood crush on a girl named Emmylou. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of innocent flirtation on the playground, chasing each other “round the playground, across the monkey bars to the merry-go-round.” The tension builds as Emmylou hands the narrator a note, presenting him with a simple yet life-changing question: “Check Yes Or No.”

The song then takes a beautiful turn, transitioning from the carefree days of childhood to the present. The narrator, now a grown man, reflects on the enduring love that blossomed from that simple first note. He reveals that Emmylou became his wife, and they’ve celebrated decades of marriage together. “Check Yes Or No” becomes a testament to the power of young love and its ability to withstand the test of time.

“Check Yes Or No” wasn’t just a critical success; it also resonated deeply with fans. The song became a staple of Strait’s live performances, often eliciting cheers and lighters swaying in the air. Its enduring popularity is further evidenced by its inclusion on numerous compilation albums throughout Strait’s career.

Produced by Tony Brown, a longtime collaborator with Strait, “Check Yes Or No” benefits from a warm and inviting production style. The gentle strumming of acoustic guitars and the subtle touches of pedal steel perfectly complement Strait’s vocals, creating a nostalgic atmosphere that transports listeners back to a simpler time.

“Check Yes Or No” stands as a cornerstone of George Strait’s discography. Its relatable story, timeless message, and signature Strait delivery have cemented its place as a country music classic. The song continues to resonate with listeners of all ages, serving as a powerful reminder of the enduring power of love.

Video:

Lyrics:

“Check Yes Or No”

It started way back in third grade
I used to sit beside Emmylou Hayes
A pink dress, a matching bow and her pony tail
She kissed me on the school bus, but told me not to tell

Next day I chased her ’round the playground
Across the monkey bars, to the merry-go-round
And Emmylou got caught passing me a note
Before the teacher took it, I read what she wrote

“Do you love me, do you wanna be my friend?
And if you do
Well then don’t be afraid to take me by the hand
If you want to
I think this is how love goes, check yes or no”

Now we’re grown up and she’s my wife
Still like two kids with stars in our eyes
Ain’t much changed, I still chase Emmylou
Up and down the hall, around the bed in our room

Last night I took her out in a white limousine
Twenty years together, she still gets to me
Can’t believe it’s been that long ago
When we got started with just a little note

“Do you love me, do you wanna be my friend?
And if you do
Well then don’t be afraid to take me by the hand
If you want to
I think this is how love goes, check yes or no”

“Do you love me, do you wanna be my friend?
And if you do
Well then don’t be afraid to take me by the hand
If you want to
I think this is how love goes, check yes or no”

Check yes or no
Check yes or no
Check yes or no
Check yes or no