Introduction
“God and Country Music” is a heartfelt track by George Strait, featured on his 2019 album Honky Tonk Time Machine. Written by Luke Laird, Barry Dean, and Lori McKenna, the song delves into themes of faith, tradition, and the enduring essence of country music. A notable aspect of this song is the inclusion of Strait’s six-year-old grandson, George Harvey Strait III, affectionately known as Harvey, who contributes vocals to the track.
The recording sessions took place in Key West, where Harvey accompanied his grandfather to the studio daily. Strait recounted, “He’d have to get his charts and lyrics and follow along with everybody else.” This collaboration marked their first musical endeavor together, with Strait expressing hopes for future joint projects.
The duo’s live performance at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo on March 17, 2019, was a memorable event. Strait introduced Harvey to the audience, stating, “This is my grandson, and he’s going to sing with me.” The crowd of over 80,000 attendees warmly welcomed the young performer, who joined his grandfather for the song’s final chorus.
“God and Country Music” stands out in Strait’s discography, not only for its poignant lyrics but also for the familial bond it showcases. The song serves as a testament to the values of faith, family, and the timeless nature of country music.
