Introduction
“I Got a Car” is a song by American country music artist George Strait, released on November 4, 2013, as the third single from his album Love Is Everything. The track was penned by songwriters Tom Douglas and Keith Gattis, with production handled by Tony Brown and Strait himself.
The song narrates a heartfelt story of young love, beginning with a chance encounter where the male protagonist offers a ride to a woman he finds intriguing. This simple gesture sparks a journey that evolves from spontaneous adventures to significant life milestones, including marriage and starting a family. Throughout the song, the repeated phrase “I got a car” transitions from a casual offer to a symbol of the couple’s shared experiences and enduring bond.
Strait discovered this song through his son, Bubba, who received a CD from a rodeo friend. Bubba encouraged his father to listen, leading to Strait’s immediate connection with the track. He recalled, “I took it home and I laid it on the coffee table, and it sat there for two or three weeks.” Upon finally playing it, Strait was captivated, stating, “I knew, right away when I first heard it, I wanted to cut it.”
Upon its release, “I Got a Car” debuted at number 56 on the U.S. Billboard Country Airplay chart and number 50 on the Hot Country Songs chart. The song received positive reviews for its engaging storytelling and Strait’s authentic delivery. It was also certified Gold by the RIAA for sales of 500,000 copies.
“I Got a Car” exemplifies George Strait’s mastery in blending traditional country elements with compelling narratives, reinforcing his status as a stalwart in the country music genre.