25 Years Ago: George Straitโ€™s Song โ€œWrite This Downโ€ Hits #1

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โ€œWrite This Down,โ€ released in 1999, is one of George Straitโ€™s enduring hits that solidifies his status as the โ€œKing of Country.โ€

LAS VEGAS โ€“ APRIL 19: Musician George Strait performs onstage during Brooks & Dunnโ€™s The Last Rodeo Show at MGM Grand Garden Arena on April 19, 2010, in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)

Featured on his album Always Never the Same, this song quickly became a fan favorite, showcasing Straitโ€™s signature blend of traditional country music with contemporary flair.

Penned by songwriters Dana Hunt Black and Kent Robbins, โ€œWrite This Downโ€ tells a straightforward but heartfelt story of enduring love and the importance of remembering the words โ€œI love you.โ€ The lyrics are a gentle reminder to cherish and hold onto expressions of affection, especially in the face of lifeโ€™s challenges. The chorus resonates with listeners as Strait croons, โ€œWrite this down, take a little note / To remind you in case you didnโ€™t know / Tell yourself I love you and I donโ€™t want you to go / Write this down.โ€

George Strait at the Taping of CMT โ€œGIANTSโ€ Honoring Alan Jackson at The Ryman Auditorium on October 30, 2008, in Nashville, Tennessee. CMT โ€œGIANTSโ€ airs December 6, 2008 at 9 pm ET only on CMT. ***EXCLUSIVE COVERAGE*** (Photo by Rick Diamond/WireImage)

Musically, the song is a classic George Strait piece with its polished production, smooth melody, and rich instrumentation. The arrangement features a blend of twangy guitars and subtle steel guitar licks, providing a perfect backdrop to Straitโ€™s warm, baritone voice. This combination of elements underscores the songโ€™s message, making it both catchy and emotionally compelling.

โ€œWrite This Downโ€ was a commercial success, reaching the top of the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart and marking Straitโ€™s 35th number-one hit. The song also crossed over to mainstream audiences, showcasing his broad appeal beyond the country genre. The accompanying music video was filmed at his concert at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida.

George Strait during The Universal Music Group Country Music Awards Afterparty at Duvet in New York, New York, United States. ***Exclusive*** (Photo by Sylvain Gaboury/FilmMagic)

Critical reception for โ€œWrite This Downโ€ was overwhelmingly positive. Reviewers praised its relatable lyrics and Straitโ€™s effortless delivery, noting how the song captures the essence of classic country music while remaining fresh and accessible. It has since become a staple in George Straitโ€™s live performances, consistently evoking strong emotional responses from audiences.

โ€œWrite This Downโ€ is more than just a hit song; itโ€™s a testament to George Straitโ€™s enduring legacy in country music. Its success on the charts and its lasting impact on fans is a testament to the power of heartfelt lyrics, authentic musicality, and the timeless appeal of a love song delivered by one of country musicโ€™s greatest voices.

RELATED: George Strait Sets Record-Breaking Concert Attendance In The U.S.

Watch the music video for โ€œWrite This Downโ€ below.

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About the Author

Jennifer Pernicano

Hi! I'm Jen, a Southern California-based country music fan. One of my favorite things to do is go to a country concert and experience the art of storytelling in person. There truly is nothing else like it!

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