Introduction:
”Check Yes or No” is a timeless country song by George Strait that captures the innocence and enduring nature of young love. Released in September 1995 as the lead single from his box set Strait Out of the Box, the song quickly became one of Strait’s most beloved hits, topping the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Songs chart for four consecutive weeks and reaching number one on the Canadian RPM Country Tracks chart.
The narrative follows two schoolchildren, with the protagonist reminiscing about his third-grade crush on a girl named Emmylou Hayes. They exchange innocent gestures of affection, such as passing notes and sharing a kiss on the school bus. The story then transitions to their adult lives, revealing that their childhood romance blossomed into a lasting marriage. The chorus encapsulates the simplicity and sincerity of their budding relationship:
“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.”
The song was penned by Nashville songwriters Danny Wells and Dana Hunt Black. Black had conceived the idea for the chorus a year before moving to Nashville but hadn’t developed it further. During a writing session with Wells at the ASCAP offices, she introduced the concept, and together they crafted the song. This collaboration marked a significant milestone for both writers, as it was their first song to be recorded by a major artist and achieve chart-topping success.
Upon hearing the demo, George Strait was immediately drawn to the song. He recalled playing it for his young son, Bubba, during a morning car ride to school. Despite not being a morning person, Bubba’s mood brightened upon hearing the track, prompting Strait to recognize its potential appeal.
The accompanying music video further amplifies the song’s nostalgic charm. It portrays the couple’s journey from childhood to adulthood, culminating in them attending a George Strait concert together. The video features actor and singer-songwriter Michael Ray Ryan as the male lead and Dawn Waggoner, founder of the Texas Bikini Team, as the female lead.
“Check Yes or No” received critical acclaim and accolades within the country music industry. It was honored with both the Country Music Association (CMA) and Academy of Country Music (ACM) awards for Single of the Year, underscoring its impact and popularity.
Beyond its commercial success, the song has left an indelible mark on country music culture. Its portrayal of a simple note leading to a lifelong romance resonates with listeners, evoking memories of their own youthful experiences. The track’s enduring popularity has made it a staple at weddings and romantic events, with its lyrics often quoted in love notes and Valentine’s Day cards.
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Over the years, “Check Yes or No” has been covered by various artists, including Kane Brown, Austin Mahone, and Scotty McCreery, showcasing its lasting influence. Additionally, the song has been referenced in contemporary country music, highlighting its continued relevance in the genre.
In summary, “Check Yes or No” stands as a testament to George Strait’s storytelling prowess and ability to connect with audiences through relatable narratives. Its depiction of innocent love evolving into a lifelong commitment continues to charm listeners, solidifying its status as a classic in country music history.