“All My Ex’s Live in Texas,” released in 1987, is a quintessential country anthem by the “King of Country,” George Strait. Strait, a Texas native himself, embodies the classic country sound with his smooth baritone voice and traditional instrumentation, and this song perfectly encapsulates that style. It was featured on his album *Ocean Front Property*, a landmark record that solidified his place as a country music superstar.
The song, penned by Sanger D. Shafer and Lyndia J. Shafer, tells a humorous, self-deprecating tale of a man who’s burned so many bridges with former lovers that he’s been effectively exiled from the Lone Star State. The catchy chorus, with its memorable line “All my ex’s live in Texas, and Texas is a place I’d dearly love to be,” is instantly recognizable and singalong-worthy. The protagonist acknowledges his past mistakes, lamenting his lost loves and his inability to return to his beloved Texas.
“All My Ex’s Live in Texas” was a massive commercial success. It reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, further cementing Strait’s dominance in the genre. The album will become his first to top the Billboard’s Top Country Album Chart. While it didn’t garner major awards, its enduring popularity speaks volumes.
Audience feedback was, and remains, overwhelmingly positive. The song’s relatable theme of romantic mishaps, combined with Strait’s charming delivery, resonated deeply with listeners. It quickly became a staple at honky-tonks and country radio stations, a testament to its clever wordplay and catchy melody. “All My Ex’s Live in Texas” isn’t just a song; it’s a cultural touchstone, a lighthearted anthem for anyone who’s ever looked back on past relationships with a mix of regret and amusement. It helped solidify Gorge Strait´s status as an icon in country music.
