Introduction
“Every Little Honky Tonk Bar” is a lively track by American country music legend George Strait, released on February 11, 2019, as the lead single from his thirtieth studio album, Honky Tonk Time Machine.
The song was co-written by Strait, his son Bubba Strait, and longtime collaborator Dean Dillon during a late-night writing session at Strait’s ranch in South Texas. The inspiration struck when Bubba introduced the evocative line, “Whiskey is the gasoline that lights the fire that burns the bridge,” prompting the trio to craft the song that same night.
Strait debuted “Every Little Honky Tonk Bar” live in December 2018 during a concert in Las Vegas, Nevada.
The song paints a vivid picture of the quintessential honky-tonk experience, capturing the ambiance of these lively establishments. With references to jukeboxes playing Hank Williams tunes, dance floors filled with patrons seeking solace, and bartenders serving Código double shots, the lyrics encapsulate the essence of honky-tonk culture.
Musically, the track stays true to Strait’s neotraditional country roots, featuring a blend of fiddle, steel guitar, and a rhythmic piano that together create an upbeat, danceable tune. Critics have noted its familiarity within Strait’s repertoire, yet appreciate its timeless appeal and suitability for line dancing.
The official music video, released in May 2019, showcases live footage of Strait performing the song on tour, marking his first official music video release in a decade since 2009’s “Living for the Night.”
Commercially, “Every Little Honky Tonk Bar” achieved notable success, reaching number 17 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart and number 20 on the Hot Country Songs chart, making it Strait’s first top 20 hit on these charts since 2013’s “I Got a Car.”
“Every Little Honky Tonk Bar” stands as a testament to George Strait’s enduring ability to capture the spirit of traditional country music while resonating with contemporary audiences. Its authentic portrayal of honky-tonk life, combined with Strait’s signature sound, solidifies its place in his extensive catalog of hits.