“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
“Check Yes or No” by George Strait encapsulates the charm and simplicity of childhood romances that blossom into lifelong commitments. As the legend goes, Strait stumbled upon this song when reviewing potential tracks for his 1995 album, sparking immediate connection due to its narrative—a reminiscent echo of his own enduring love story with his high school sweetheart and wife, Norma.
About The Composition
- Title: Check Yes or No
- Composer: Written by Danny Wells and Dana Hunt Black
- Premiere Date: Released in 1995
- Album/Opus/Collection: Featured on the album “Strait Out of the Box”
- Genre: Country
Background:
“Check Yes or No” tells the sweet tale of two childhood friends who grow up to become life partners, marked by a charming anecdote of passing love notes. Premiering as a single from Strait’s box set, the song quickly resonated with fans, ascending to a chart-topping hit. The song’s reception bolstered Strait’s reputation as a narrator of life’s simple but profound moments, securing a special place in his extensive hit repertoire.
Musical Style
The song employs a traditional country music style, characterized by its straightforward melody and classic instrumentation that includes acoustic guitars, fiddle, and pedal steel guitar. The arrangement supports the narrative’s clarity and emotional warmth, allowing the lyrics to take center stage. The song’s structure follows a conventional verse-chorus pattern, which complements its storytelling nature.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “Check Yes or No” weave a narrative of innocent love, starting from a schoolyard crush expressed through a simple note: “Do you love me, do you wanna be my friend?” This question sets the foundation for a lifelong journey together, encapsulated by the refrain. The song’s appeal lies in its relatability and the universal desire to find a love that endures from the simplicity of childhood into the complexities of adult life.
Performance History
Since its release, “Check Yes or No” has been a staple in George Strait’s concert setlists, often drawing a sing-along response from audiences. The song’s popularity has endured over the years, making it one of Strait’s most memorable performances.
Cultural Impact
“Check Yes or No” has transcended its role as a mere country song to become a cultural symbol for enduring love. Its narrative has been referenced in various media, including films and books, often cited as an archetype of true love stories. The song has also inspired countless wedding proposals and has been used in educational settings to discuss themes of love and relationships.
Legacy
The legacy of “Check Yes or No” lies in its timeless appeal and its ability to capture the essence of a universal love story. Its simplicity and emotional depth continue to resonate with new generations of listeners, cementing its place not only in George Strait’s illustrious career but also in the annals of country music history.
Conclusion
“Check Yes or No” stands as a testament to George Strait’s ability to connect deeply with his audience through stories of love, life, and relationships. It invites listeners to reminisce about their own first loves and the innocence of youthful promises. For those looking to explore the song further, listening to Strait’s live performances offers a glimpse into the song’s enduring charm and its impact on audiences worldwide.
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