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George Strait Interactive Review
Hosted by Joe Heim
washingtonpost.com Staff Writer
Friday, February 7, 2003
George Strait is a country music lover's idea of what a country music star should be. A traditionalist who would probably just as soon quit playing music than record the sort of crossover country that Nashville spewed out in the '80s and '90s, Strait is committed to old-time music without sounding like he's stuck in the past. On last year's "The Road Less Traveled" he lent his sweet growl to "The Real Thing," a slap at wimpy country music and a request for authenticity. The 50-year-old Texas hit-maker is out on the road and brought his stellar band with him to the MCI Center on Thursday, Feb. 6.
If you were at the show we want to know your reaction. Submit your George Strait concert review. Let us know what you thought about the Strait's performance. Tell us what you liked and what you could've done without. We’ll post new
reviews as we receive them.
Editor's Note: Washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control
over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions.
Ashburn VA:
The show was AWESOME! Strait's sharp vocals and his world class band put on a great show. GO GEORGE!!!
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Alexandria, Virginia:
George Strait is like a fine wine...sit back, savor over 20 years of pure country classics (50 #1's), and enjoy a Texas vintage that only improves as the years unfold! Let's only hope he never tires of returning to Washington...snow and all!!! We still love you George!
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Arlington, VA:
I enjoyed the concert, but I would have preferred to hear more of George's old songs.
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Centreville VA:
A great concert! It was a privilege to see such a legend. He played every song I wanted to hear, and then some. The audience was dancing in their seats for most of the performance. I could not have asked for more.
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Takoma Park, MD:
It was a very dutiful concert. He dutifully played all his hits. He dutifully played to all four sides of audience (the stage was square and in the middle). It is like an elementary school student who didn't want to do his homework, but turned in an adequate assignment anyway. It is all there, but the heart is missing.
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King George, VA:
George Strait is a seasoned entertainer so it's no surprise that the technical aspect of Thursday night's concert was flawless from the sound engineering to the simple, pristeen stage. George was pure no-frills country entertainment. Men secretly envy his understated classy persona and his lady fans of all ages love his good looks, but it's the enduring talent of the 50 year old Texan that keeps us "coming back for more." Simply put: He sounded Darned Good. His concert-in-the-round repertoire covered decades, from his 1981 hit "Unwound" to his current chart-topper, and he thanked the crowd for helping him achieve the honor of racking up his current, 50th, Number One hit. As always he proved true to his country roots and tradition, including his renditions of Merle Haggard's "My Life's Been Grand," Johnny Cash's "Folsom Prison Blues," and the Alan Jackson collaboration "Murder on Music Row," a pretty song mourning the rock-related demise of Country music. Ironically George Strait is among contemporary artists who KEEP country music on track and close to its roots. Songs from happy to broken-hearted, torch songs to blues, Texas Swing to Louisiana bayou excursion, the enthusiastic arena crowd of two generations stayed with George until the end of his encore despite the rapidly worsening snow storm outside the doors. And the fans will be waiting anxiously for his next visit. Thanks George.
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Stafford VA:
It was AWESOME!!!!!
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Gaithersburg, MD:
George Strait showed why he has won the Entertainer of the Year award so many times. He is pure country entertainment! Everyone around us was tapping there boots and enjoying that good ol' Texas country music. Nothing better!
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Brisbane, Queensland, Australia:
To all you fans attending the George Strait concerts, glad to hear you are all (or nearly all) enjoying yourselves. Wish I could be there.
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Purcellville, VA:
It is very rare to attend a concert from a performer that has to decide which of his 50 #1 hits to leave out of the setlist.
George Strait was in top form last night. My heart is glad to see a traditional country music performer. Today's "country" music tends to be vocal acrobatics or bubble gum pop. George's version of "Cheyenne" and "Murder on Music Row" made us all pause (and then applause).
Tammy Cochran was good, too..even though she needed a hairdo.
The acoustics at MCI generally are bad, but somehow the sound was clean last night.
Good job, guys! I got my money's worth.
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Bentonia, MS:
Absolutely Incredible!!!!
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Springfield, VA:
I thought both George and his opener, Tammy Cochran, were great. They both had fantastic bands, excellent voices, and seemed to be enjoying themselves. The set-up (in the round) was good because it was more interactive with the audience and all the players could be seen. I am not a country music follower, but was very impressed by both artists' showmanship, musicianship--and their choice of back-up musicians!
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Denver, Colorado:
George is the greatest! I would travel in the snow anytime to see him. He is a great singer and a class country act. There is no better concert than his--singing good country without frills, best band in country. I did not want his concert to end!
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Washington, DC:
Very enjoyable concert. It is wonderful to know there are so many loyal, country fans in the DC area. It felt like a large town social.
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Salt Lake City, UT:
Great concert! George was superb! This man continues to blows us out with his singing! NO COOKIE-CUTTER singing for him. He's the real deal!
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Germantown, MD:
This was an awesome show! George is the man!
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White Plains, MD:
This was the third time I have seen George in concert and I have to say that the third time was the charm! He was great!! George sang many of his #1 songs, and some I haven't heard him do live before. Very entertaining and enjoyable. I much prefer this to the mega all-day events that are too long. I hope that he keeps doing the smaller, more intimate venues so his fans can appreciate his talents up close. Here's to another 50 #1 songs, George!!!
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La Plata, Maryland:
I enjoyed every minute of the George Strait concert. He certainly gave us back every cent we paid for a ticket. I have been to two other George Strait concerts, and this is the first time I have seen him interact so much with his audience. I had the pleasure of being one of the hands he reached out to. Thanks for the thrill George. I am looking forward to his next visit to Washington.
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Norfolk, VA:
George Strait put on a great show! Wonderful singing from this talented country singer. Hope he comes back soon!
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Smithfield, VA:
George Strait did not disappoint us. We became fans! My boyfriend wants to look like him! Jeans, belt buckle, boots. I love him but he can never look like George Strait!
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Shady Side, MD:
In summary, his performance was indicative of his successful career, which is nothing but a class act. He is a traditional country music artist who provides only real country music like no other artist in the business. As I sat in the auditorium, I noticed some of the fans behavior and reactions. The crowd displayed the same class as George Strait. Fans seemed to be greatful, appreciative, and honored to see him perform. His honored reputation is reflected in his fans as they showed the utmost respect for him at his concert. There could never be another replacement for such a fine country music artist. For all his true fans, let's hope that he will be around a long time to keep the tradition of real country music alive for many years to come. Great performance!
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Austin, TEXAS:
I could not be there but I want to thank Mr. Strait for saving Country Music and for not changing a thing for all these years.
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Springfield,Va:
If you were lucky enough to have a seat at the MCI Center Feb 6th, you became witness to the King of Country Music. There is no question to this title. George Strait is astounding!! His presence makes woman quiver all over and men applaud with respect. There are not many artists in any genre of music or any form of entertainment that have the ability to satisfy each gender as well as this legend. He packed in as many songs as his time frame allowed with the classics like "The Chair" and "The Fireman" as well as new songs like his 50th number one "She'll Leave You With a Smile". And after shaking every hand around the center stage at the end of the show, he left all of us with a smile!!! - One of his many "biggest fans" - Frannie
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Baltimore, MD:
George delivers as always! The man is an incredible singer! Long live King George!
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Dumphries, Virginia:
My first time seeing the great George Strait! It was worth it!
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Baltimore:
Tammy Cochran was impressive. The reigning king of country, George Strait, was as cool and consistent as ever, proving once again that Garth was just a fad.
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Manassas, Va:
George was GREAT!!! as he always is. The show was wonderful. George had the crowd in his hands. He is truly a FINE MAN...Just Love him! Tammy Cochran I could do without.
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Alexandria, VA:
I really did not want to sit through Tammy Cochran in order to hear George Strait, but Ms. Cochran's performance won me over quickly. As for The Man from Texas, his voice and style always evoke memories of great "Cowboy singers" from the past; and getting such a long, almost uninterrupted, set from a performer of 50 who has been in the biz over 20 years was a sweet surprise. Still, I would agree that George Strait appeared almost mechanical in his presentation: "Wind me up, and let me play" is a better description than suggesting he was pouring his heart into every note.
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Woodbridge, VA:
Each time I see George he continues to amaze me. He's not my favorite but he's up there and although I enjoy more of a "show" than a concert, George can stand there in front of the mic all night and just tap that foot and sing so smoothly and make my day!
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Springfield, VA:
WOW! What a concert by George Strait! Hope he comes back soon!
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Washinton, DC:
George is the King of Country and he proved it last nite. The man still sings good and has so many hits! We love you, George! Don't forget us!
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Boonsboro, MD:
George Strait was excellent. Anyone who missed this concert definitely missed the King of Country. There will not be a better concert at the MCI Center until he comes around again!!
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Baltimore, Maryland:
I think the George Strait concert was out of this world. It didn't have the fancy lights, floor shows, but to see this man just sing makes my heart sing. His music is emotional, upbeat and great. This was everything I thought it would be and then some. George was just a little different looking than I thought (I thought he was short) but what impact he has with his music. The smile, unbuttoned shirt and personality makes him the best ever. My son, His Girl & I went to this concert as we do all other country concerts but I can't imagine seeing anything better this year than George. STRAIT TO MY HEART GEORGE GOES.
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Washington DC:
He's got a great voice - but could use some more excitment in his live shows. Also all his new songs are starting to sound the same.
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Stafford Va:
Last night was the first time I had seen George, and will go back any and every time he is in the area. The music was outstanding. It was the kind of concert you could have pulled back the chairs and did a little two-steppin all night long. Thanks George, from one Texan to another. We will be there on your next trip through.
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Washington, DC:
A newby to country but, it doesn't take a life long fan to appreciate the great looks, vocals, and sound of a legend! The concert was incredible in every respect, worth every penney and can't wait to see him again!
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Washington, DC:
Outstanding, the best performer in country music
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Houston, TX:
I grew up listening to George Strait and seeing him perform at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. He still sounds as good or even better than he did years ago. Now, as a student in the DC area, I was delighted to have the opportunity to hear and see him live outside of Texas. Seeing George Strait electrifying the crowd Thursday night at the MCI Center was a treat, as all his other shows have been. The stage set-up and his band helped to solidify George's place at the top of the country ladder. He acknowledged and introduced each member of his band, creating a more personal atmosphere among the sold out MCI Center where much of the audience sang, clapped, or got out of their seats to dance. It was almost as if he was singing to us in our own living rooms. I am still in awe at his ability to mesh his talents into such an eclectic variety of songs and the connection he has with his fans. For a little over an hour and a half, the audience sang along to hits like "Check Yes or No," "Deep in the Heart of Texas," "Amarillo By Morning," and of course, his current number one hit. Although one of my favorites "All My Exes Live in Texas" was not on his set list this time around, I was still thoroughly pleased. However, having 50 number one hits, I can understand how choosing which songs to perform would be a daunting task in and of itself. Nonetheless, his concert did not fail to entertain, and I still regard him as one of the best country singers...who has remained true to his roots. He is truly a Texan and a real cowboy who has never failed to deliver. Hopefully, he won't be hanging his boots up anytime soon and much more is to come from such a legend. I can't wait to get his new album "For the Last Time: Live from the Astrodome" which again showcases George's capacity as as singer and performer, as well as his abiltiy to captivate a crowd.
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Blackstone VA:
Great Show! No frills, wild lights or side shows. Country music at it's finest. George's voice never fails and you just get to sit back, listen and enjoy the hits. Tammy Cochran's voice is excellent. I enjoyed her show as well although her songs kind of all sounded the same.
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Lorton, VA:
Great show...Nothing fancy, just plain ole country music done right. This is third time seeing him and not much has changed except for his abilty to cotnue to make hits.....
Stick to your GOD given abilty.....
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Manassas, VA:
George was AWESOME!!!!! as always! He put on a stellar show, as always! He acknowleged his fans, as always! He was gracious, as always! He sounded GREAT, as always! He looked GOOD, I mean GOOD, as always! What else can I say. I would go to see him anywhere I could get to and I know that I will see a GOOD SHOW put on by the KING OF COUNTRY! George, never leave us! What would we do without you around? Come back to see us again real soon! I love you and you are the BEST and will be #1 always.
Not only do women love you, but men, young people and that is because you are always a GENTLE MAN and a WONDERFUL PERSON, HUSBAND, FATHER,and ENTERTAINER! Will Always Love You George!
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St. Leonard, Maryland:
I have seen George Strait everytime he has come to the area so I have been a fan for a long time. I thought he gave a great performance and actually smiled a lot at this concert making him even more personable. He seemed to be more relaxed and to be enjoying himself. His performance was flawless. He still puts on one heck of a show for his fans. I love the guy. I just hope he doesn't retire for a long time.
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Frederick, MD:
I've seen the man several times, and this was the best one yet. I love him and his music and go every time he's close enough to see. Bad weather and all, it was well worth it. He has an awesome sounding group of musicians backing him up as well. I was glad to see that his muscial selection for the night consisted of both older songs and new hits. Not a bad song in the bunch and I knew the words to every one. Loved him, hope he comes back soon!!!
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Fredericksburg, VA:
It is always a pleasure and an honor to hear a living country legend. The show was not about smoke, lights and mirrors, but about the music. The crowd was less animated than I have seen, but we were all enjoying the music nonetheless. KEEP CRANKIN' EM' OUT, GEORGE!!
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North Beach, Maryland:
George Strait was FABULOUS!!! He keeps country music country music. I love it.
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Falls Church, VA:
We had a great time... he is a legend! It was nice he could play a bit of jazzy blues too.
What a GREAT GUY! Tammy was good too. Her Angels song was emotional and powerful.
It was fun to come out after and have another treat, snow!
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Hancock, MD:
George Strait is the best out there and his band is the best out there! Together they gave us an incredible concert of solid country music without the trappings that most country singers need to fit into the Nashville sound and hide their lack of voice and style. This man at the MCI Center has it all, and I would travel in snow again to see him. Please come back soon, George. The women love you and the men, including myself, respect you and think you are the King of Country!
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Oakton, VA:
George is in a class by himself! He is the only one who does not needs electronics, gimmicks and show effects to mesmerize an audience and stay on top of the country music scene. He does it with his singing, songs, looks, smile, and quiet charisma that keeps you wanting his concerts never to end and keeps you coming back for more. I loved seeing him so relaxed and a little more personable than usual. Hope he feels he can talk to us a little more next time. He would have us in the palm of his hand! WONDERFUL CONCERT AND THE BEST YOU CAN GET!
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Olney, Md:
RE: George Strait Concert
What a phenomenal concert!! One of the best I have ever seen!!!
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Centreville, VA:
George is the only one who can captivate an audience without all the stage and lighting trappings. He's absolutely the best at what he does--which is singing, supported by a marvelous band! He's such a great singer and knows just how to phrase his songs. If that were all he had to offer, he would still be the best! BUT we women also get to look at him, and he is so GOOD LOOKING! Looks and talent too are hard to find! WHAT A WONDERFUL CONCERT! WE LOVE YOU, GEORGE! PLESE COME BACK SOON!
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Wheeling, W VA:
The MCI Center will not be the same until George Strait returns! He's the best country music has, and he sang, smiled, shook hands, and looked handsome all night long. He is so good with songs, and his band is great! There will never be another like George Strait, and we were so fortunate to have him in concert. I can't wait until he tours again close to me!
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