Introduction
“Check Yes or No,” a charming narrative that captures the simplicity of childhood love, became a signature tune for George Strait. It tells a sweet, nostalgic story of a school-time romance that blossoms into a lifelong partnership, reflecting Strait’s knack for picking relatable and heartfelt themes.
About The Composition
- Title: Check Yes or No
- Composer: Written by Danny Wells and Dana Hunt Black
- Premiere Date: Released in September 1995
- Album/Opus/Collection: Featured in Strait’s box set “Strait Out of the Box”
- Genre: Country
Background
The song was a pivotal release from Strait’s box set and soared to the top of both U.S. and Canadian country charts. Its heartfelt, straightforward lyrics and catchy melody exemplified Strait’s style during a decade when he solidified his status as a country music icon. This track, like many of Strait’s hits, connected with fans on a personal level, perhaps due to its narrative of enduring love starting from a young age—a theme that resonates widely.
Musical Style
“Check Yes or No” features a classic country arrangement typical of the mid-90s, characterized by a blend of acoustic and electric guitars, a steady drumbeat, and Strait’s clear, earnest vocal delivery. The song’s structure is straightforward yet effective, emphasizing the storytelling aspect that is central to its appeal.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “Check Yes or No” tell a story through the eyes of a narrator who recounts a note passed between schoolchildren, asking if one has romantic feelings for the other. This simple act of passing a note spirals into a lifetime of shared memories, encapsulating the song’s theme of enduring love.
Performance History
Since its release, “Check Yes or No” has remained a staple in George Strait’s performances, often highlighted as a crowd favorite due to its relatable lyrics and memorable melody. It has been performed in numerous concerts, including high-profile events and tours, reflecting its significant place in Strait’s repertoire.
Cultural Impact
The song not only topped charts but also helped cement Strait’s image as a storyteller in the country genre. It has appeared in various media and continues to be a beloved song for its portrayal of innocent love and lifelong companionship, themes that transcend musical preferences.
Legacy
“Check Yes or No” stands as a testament to George Strait’s ability to capture the essence of personal and relatable experiences, making it a timeless piece in country music. Its legacy endures as it continues to be discovered by new generations of country music listeners.
Conclusion
George Strait’s “Check Yes or No” remains an endearing piece of country music history, evoking nostalgia and the joy of a simpler time. It’s a song that invites listeners to reflect on their own experiences of love and friendship, making it a must-listen for fans of heartfelt storytelling in music.
For more details, you can visit the full article on Wikipedia (Wikipedia)
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