Introduction:
“Fool Hearted Memory,” performed by George Strait, holds a special place in country music history as the artist’s first number-one hit. Released in May 1982, the song served as the lead single from his second studio album, Strait from the Heart. Written by Byron Hill and Blake Mevis, it exemplifies the neotraditional country style that Strait became famous for and played a pivotal role in shaping the genre in the 1980s.
The song’s poignant lyrics explore the lingering pain of lost love, capturing the protagonist’s struggle to move on while being haunted by memories of his past relationship. This relatable theme, combined with Strait’s emotive vocal delivery, resonated deeply with audiences. Beyond its inclusion on the album, the track was also featured in the soundtrack of the 1982 film The Soldier, further boosting its popularity.
“Fool Hearted Memory” achieved critical and commercial success, earning an ASCAP award for being one of the most-played country songs of the year. Its rise to the top of the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart not only marked a milestone for Strait but also helped solidify his status as a rising star in country music. This success paved the way for a career that would see him earn the title “King of Country Music,” with a legacy of chart-topping hits spanning decades.
The song remains a beloved classic in George Strait’s extensive catalog and is celebrated for its timeless appeal and significance in his journey to becoming one of country music’s most iconic artists.
Video:
Lyrics:
“Fool Hearted Memory”
The same old stool, the same old fool; played by the rules, but didn’t win.
There’s an old love in his heart that he can’t lose.
He tried forgettin’, but he knows that it’s no use.[Chorus:]
He’s got a fool hearted memory.
It won’t let him see that she walked out the door.
He’s got a fool hearted memory,
And he sits patiently here every night so it can fool him more.
She was his girl, his only whirl, that string of pearls that slipped away.
A thousand dimes, a thousand times – he doesn’t mind what they say.
He fills the jukebox, and plays the same old song.
He fills his glass, and then he turns her memory on.
[Chorus:]
But it’s a fool hearted memory.
It won’t let him see that she walked out the door.
He’s got a fool hearted memory.
And he sits patiently here every night so it can fool him more.
He’s got a fool hearted memory.
It won’t let him see that she walked out the door.
He’s got a fool hearted memory.
And he sits patiently here every night so it can fool him more.