About the song
When it comes to traditional American country music, few names shine brighter than George Strait. Born in 1952 in Texas, Strait grew up surrounded by wide-open pastures and a cowboy spirit that would come to define his sound. Since the early 1980s, he has captivated listeners with his honest, no-frills approach to country music. Known as “The King of Country,” he has become a symbol of the genre’s roots and staying power.
With over 60 number-one hits on the charts—more than any artist in country music history—George Strait’s success is unmatched. He was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame, has won countless prestigious awards, and yet, he remains grounded. Strait is known for his private, quiet life off stage, devoted to his family and his ranch in Texas.
Among his many beloved songs, “Check Yes or No” (released in 1995) stands out as one of the most charming and timeless. The song tells the story of a childhood crush that blossoms into lifelong love, beginning with a handwritten note passed across a classroom: “Do you love me? Check yes or no.”
With its simple melody, heartfelt lyrics, and Strait’s warm, steady voice, the song captures the innocence of young love and the sweetness of memories that last a lifetime. It’s a tune that resonates with fans of all ages, particularly those who remember what it felt like to fall in love for the very first time.
George Strait didn’t need flashy gimmicks to rise to the top. His enduring success comes from his authenticity, humility, and a voice that speaks straight to the heart. In a world where music trends constantly change, Strait’s songs—especially “Check Yes or No”—remain a comforting reminder that the best stories are often the simplest.
Video
Lyrics
It started way back in third grade
I used to sit beside Emmylou Hayes
A pink dress, a matching bow in her ponytail
She kissed me on the school bus but told me not to tell
Next day I chased her ’round the playground
‘Cross the monkey bars to the merry-go-round
And Emmylou got caught passing me a note
Before the teacher took it I read what she wrote
“Do you love me? Do you wanna be my friend?
And if you do
Well then don’t be afraid to take me by the hand
If you want to
I think this is how love goes
Check yes or no”
Now we’re grown up and she’s my wife
Still like two kids with stars in our eyes
Ain’t much changed, I still chase Emmylou
Up and down the hall, around the bed in our room
Last night I took her out in a white limousine
Twenty years together she still gets to me
Can’t believe it’s been that long ago
When we got started with just a little note
“Do you love me? Do you wanna be my friend?
And if you do
Well then don’t be afraid to take me by the hand
If you want to
I think this is how love goes
Check yes or no”
“Do you love me? Do you wanna be my friend?
And if you do
Well then don’t be afraid to take me by the hand
If you want to
I think this is how love goes
Check yes or no”
Check yes or no
Check yes or no
Check yes or no
Check yes or no
