Country Artists Pay Tribute To George Strait
Yesterday, George Strait announced in a press conference that he would not be touring after 2014. Before George made his announcement, which took place at the Country Music Hall of Fame, a video reel played for attendees that showed a huge assortment of musicians each talking about George.
They talk about being a fan, what he's has taught them over the years, and shared favorite memories of being on the road with a guy so many call King George.
Taylor Swift, Kenny Chesney, Reba McEntire, Blake Shelton, Martina McBride (who will be going out on the road with him these next two years) are just some of the many artists who share stories about George in the video.
Haven't been able to tweet til now, but I am beyond excited at going out on tour with George Strait on his Cowboy Rides Away tour. BEYOND.
— Martina McBride (@martinamcbride) September 27, 2012
Dierks Bentley says that George Strait's music "bookends" his career--he listened to George growing up, and these days he's often found listening to George in the wee hours, on his bus after playing a show. Tim McGraw says that George's music represents "the essence of what we are" as country music artists. Jamey Johnson says "thank you" for cutting his song ("Give It Away") and "[giving] me a career in country music."Taylor Swift talks about "what a supportive guy he is," and Martina McBride tells George, "we all look up to you."
Watch the video right here:
The two-year Cowboy Rides Away Tour starts January 18, 2013 in Lubbock, Texas, and as George himself noted during the press conference, “There’s just no telling who might show up."
- Marci Braun, US99.5/Chicago and Kurt Wolff, CBS Local
