Introduction:
If You’re Thinking You Want A Stranger (There’s One Coming Home), a heartfelt plea for reconciliation wrapped in a classic country melody, was released in 1981 by the “King of Country Music,” George Strait. The song, penned by songwriting duo Blake Mevis and David Wills, showcased Strait’s signature smooth vocals and storytelling ability, propelling it to become a major hit for the rising star.
Prior to the release of If You’re Thinking You Want A Stranger, Strait had already begun to carve a niche for himself in the country music scene. He released his self-titled debut album in 1981, which established his distinctive neotraditional country sound – a blend of traditional country instrumentation and songwriting with a more polished, contemporary production style. If You’re Thinking You Want A Stranger became a cornerstone of that sound, showcasing a relatable theme and catchy melody that resonated with audiences.
If You’re Thinking You Want A Stranger tells the story of a man pleading with his partner for another chance. The lyrics acknowledge his past mistakes, promising a change in behavior (“No more late nights, comin’ in at daylight, and no more doin’ you wrong”). The urgency in his voice and the sincerity of the lyrics struck a chord with listeners, particularly those who had experienced similar situations in their own relationships.
The song’s success was undeniable. If You’re Thinking You Want A Stranger reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and remained there for two weeks. It also achieved crossover success, reaching the Top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, a significant feat for a country song at the time. This dual-chart success solidified Strait’s position as a rising star and helped to bridge the gap between country and mainstream music.
If You’re Thinking You Want A Stranger‘s impact extended beyond the charts. The song garnered critical acclaim and was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Male Country Vocal Performance in 1986. It remains a staple of Strait’s live performances and a beloved classic among country music fans.
If You’re Thinking You Want A Stranger‘s enduring popularity is a testament to the song’s relatable theme, catchy melody, and George Strait’s unmatched performing ability. The song not only captured a specific moment in country music history but also solidified George Strait’s place as a country music legend.
Video:
Lyrics:
Lately you’ve been showin’ all the signs
Of a woman with someone else on her mind
It’s not your fault
Some nights i’ve left you alone
And if you’re thinking you want a stranger
There’s one coming homeChorus:
If you’re thinking you want a stranger
I’ll soon be there
You’re gonna see a change in me
This time i swear
No more late nights
Comin’ in at daylight
And no more doin’ you wrong
And if you’re thinking you want a stranger
There’s one coming homeBought you a silk gown and perfume today
Picked up some roses and champagne on the way
Oh i called to ask you to put some soft music on
Cause if you’re thinking you want a stranger
There’s one coming homeChorus
If you’re thinking you want a stranger
There’s one coming home
