About the song
“The Chair” is a song that holds a special place in the hearts of country music lovers, written by Hank Cochran and Dean Dillon and performed by the legendary **George Strait**. Released in **August 1985**, it became the **first single** from Strait’s album *Something Special*. The song’s smooth melody and heartfelt lyrics helped it soar to number one on the **country music charts** in both the **United States** and **Canada** that same year, marking yet another milestone in Strait’s career.
What makes “The Chair” particularly captivating is its storytelling. The song is a masterful example of the **art of narrative** in country music. It tells the story of a man who, while sitting at a bar, encounters a woman who mistakes him for someone else. Through their conversation, the man gently reveals his true identity, but rather than sounding forced, the dialogue unfolds naturally, drawing the listener into the scene. This subtle, yet poignant interaction between the characters is what elevates the song from a simple love story to a deeply memorable piece of music.
One of the song’s unique features is its lack of a traditional **chorus** or refrain. Unlike most songs, where a catchy hook repeats throughout, “The Chair” is built around a **simple, yet effective melody** that repeats but never feels redundant. This absence of a chorus allows the song’s lyrics to breathe and evolve without interruption, giving the story the space it needs to unfold gracefully.
Not only did “The Chair” earn commercial success, but it also garnered critical acclaim. CMT (Country Music Television) named it one of the **Top 100 Country Songs of All Time**, ranking it at an impressive **number 24**. This recognition speaks to the enduring legacy of George Strait as an artist who helped shape the landscape of country music, and “The Chair” remains one of his most beloved tracks.
For fans of traditional country music, “The Chair” is a shining example of the genre’s timeless appeal. With its **rich lyrics**, **smooth delivery**, and understated yet memorable melody, the song continues to resonate with listeners of all ages, making it an essential part of George Strait’s iconic catalog.
Video
Lyrics
Well, excuse me, but I think you’ve got my chair
No, that one’s not taken, I don’t mind if you sit here
I’ll be glad to share
Yeah, it’s usually packed here on Friday nights
Oh, if you don’t mind, could I talk you out of a light?
Well, thank you, could I drink you a buy?
Oh, listen to me, what I mean is, can I buy you a drink?
Anything you please
Oh, you’re welcome, well, I don’t think I caught your name
Are you waiting for someone to meet you here?
Well, that makes two of us, glad you came
No, I don’t know the name of the band
But they’re good, aren’t they?
Would you like to dance?
Yeah, I like this song too, it reminds me of you and me, baby
Do you think there’s a chance that later on I could drive you home?
No, I don’t mind at all
Oh, I like you too, and to tell you the truth
That wasn’t my chair after all
Oh, I like you too, and to tell you the truth
That wasn’t my chair after all
