“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
The song “Does Fort Worth Ever Cross Your Mind” by George Strait brings to mind the warm, dusty roads of Texas, where heartbreak is as much a part of the landscape as the sprawling plains. It’s a song that speaks to anyone who has ever loved and lost, asking a question that lingers in the air long after the music fades. The tune has a timeless quality, a classic country sound that has resonated with fans for decades.
About The Composition
- Title: Does Fort Worth Ever Cross Your Mind
- Composer: Sanger D. Shafer, Darlene Shafer
- Premiere Date: August 6, 1984
- Album: Does Fort Worth Ever Cross Your Mind
- Genre: Country
Background
“Does Fort Worth Ever Cross Your Mind” was penned by the talented duo Sanger D. Shafer and his wife Darlene Shafer. The song was brought to life by George Strait, who included it as the title track on his 1984 album. The inspiration behind the song is rooted in the classic themes of country music—love, loss, and longing. It paints a picture of a man left behind, wondering if his former lover ever thinks of him as she moves on with her life. The song was a significant milestone in George Strait’s career, becoming one of his many number-one hits and solidifying his status as a country music icon.
Musical Style
The song exemplifies the traditional country music style that George Strait is known for. Its structure is straightforward, featuring a verse-chorus format that allows the story to unfold naturally. The instrumentation includes a mix of acoustic guitar, steel guitar, and fiddle, creating a sound that is both nostalgic and timeless. The melody is simple yet poignant, perfectly complementing the lyrics’ theme of heartache and reminiscence. The musical arrangement is uncluttered, leaving space for Strait’s smooth, emotive vocals to shine through.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “Does Fort Worth Ever Cross Your Mind” delve into the universal experience of wondering if someone you once loved still thinks about you. The song’s protagonist is left to ponder whether his former lover, who has moved on, ever looks back with regret or nostalgia. The lyrics are a mix of yearning and resignation, capturing the bittersweet nature of lost love. The chorus, in particular, is hauntingly memorable, with the repeated question, “Does Fort Worth ever cross your mind?” echoing the sentiment of so many who have been left behind.
Performance History
Since its release, “Does Fort Worth Ever Cross Your Mind” has been a staple in George Strait’s live performances. It quickly climbed to the top of the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, where it remained a favorite among fans. Over the years, it has been performed countless times, both by Strait and by other artists who admire his work. The song’s success helped the album of the same name earn platinum status, and it remains a beloved classic in Strait’s extensive repertoire.
Cultural Impact
“Does Fort Worth Ever Cross Your Mind” has had a lasting impact on country music and beyond. It is a song that encapsulates the essence of country—simple yet powerful storytelling, wrapped in a melody that stays with you. The song’s influence can be seen in how it has been covered by other artists and referenced in various forms of media. It is a testament to the enduring appeal of George Strait and the timeless nature of classic country music.
Legacy
The legacy of “Does Fort Worth Ever Cross Your Mind” is one of enduring relevance. Even decades after its release, the song continues to resonate with new generations of country music fans. Its themes of love and loss are universal, ensuring that it remains a poignant and relatable piece of music. George Strait’s delivery of the song, with his characteristic smoothness and sincerity, has made it a timeless classic that will continue to be cherished for years to come.
Conclusion
“Does Fort Worth Ever Cross Your Mind” is more than just a song; it’s a reflection of the human experience, a reminder of the emotional landscapes we all navigate. George Strait’s rendition of this classic is a masterpiece of country music, capturing the pain of lost love with grace and authenticity. For those who have yet to experience it, I highly recommend listening to it, perhaps starting with the original 1984 recording. It’s a song that will stay with you long after the last note fades, much like the memory of a lost love.
Video
Lyrics
Cold Fort Worth beer, just ain’t no good for jealous
I’ve tried it night, after night
You’re in someone else’s arms in Dallas
Does Fort Worth ever cross your mind?
Darlin’ while you’re busy, burnin’ bridges
Burn one for me, if you get time
‘Cause good memories, don’t fade so easy
Does Fort Worth ever cross your mind?
You left me here, to be with him in Dallas
And I know it hurts you at the time
Well I wonder now, if it makes a difference
Does Fort Worth ever cross your mind?
You left me here, to be with him in Dallas
And I know it hurts you, at the time
Well I wonder now, if it makes a difference
Does Fort Worth ever cross your mind?
Does Fort Worth ever cross your mind?