George Strait – The Seashores Of Old Mexico Edit

About the song

“The Seashores of Old Mexico” is a country song penned by the legendary Merle Haggard. Over the years, it has been interpreted by various artists, each bringing their unique touch to the narrative of escape and new beginnings.

The song’s journey began in 1971 when Canadian country artist Hank Snow released his rendition, which achieved significant success in Canada, reaching number 6 on the RPM Top Country Tracks charts. Following this, Freddy Weller offered his version in 1972. In 1974, Merle Haggard recorded the song himself, embedding it with his signature storytelling style. Later, in 1987, Haggard collaborated with Willie Nelson to reimagine the track as a duet, further cementing its place in country music history. citeturn0search12

In 2005, George Strait included “The Seashores of Old Mexico” on his album “Somewhere Down in Texas.” Released as a single in 2006, Strait’s rendition resonated with audiences, peaking at number 11 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. His smooth vocals and authentic delivery brought a renewed warmth to the song, introducing it to a new generation of listeners. citeturn0search12

The narrative of the song follows a young man fleeing legal troubles in Tucson, Arizona. Seeking a fresh start, he ventures into Mexico, only to lose his money in a poker game on his first night. Despite these setbacks, he finds solace in the coastal towns of Mexico, where he discovers love and a sense of belonging, ultimately choosing to spend the rest of his life there. citeturn0search12

The enduring appeal of “The Seashores of Old Mexico” lies in its evocative storytelling and the universal theme of seeking redemption and a new beginning. Each artist who has covered the song has added their unique perspective, ensuring its place as a cherished piece in the tapestry of country music.

Video

Lyrics

I left, out of Tucson, with no destination in mind
I was running from trouble and the jail-term the Judge had in mind
And the border meant freedom, a new life, romance
And that’s why I thought I should go
And start my life over on the seashores of old Mexico

My first night in Juarez, lost all the money I had
One bad senorita made use of one innocent lad
But I must keep on running; it’s too late to turn back
I’m wanted in Tucson, I’m told
Yeah, and things’ll blow over on the seashores of old Mexico

Two Mexican farmers en route to a town I can’t say
Let me ride on the back of a flatbed half-loaded with hay
Down through Durango, Colima, Almiera
Then in the Manzanillos
Where I slept in the sunshine on the seashores of old Mexico

After one long siesta, I came wide awake in the night
I was startled by someone who shadowed the pale moonlight
My new-found companion, one young senorita
Who offered a broken hello
To the gringo she found on the seashores of old Mexico