by John Atchison

Created on: January 17, 2013

When someone asks the question of who has generated the most number one hit singles in music history, the answer will surprise almost everyone. Those expecting Elvis, The Beatles, or Michael Jackson to own that distinction will all be wrong. No, the holder of this distinguished record comes from the world of country music and has 59 number one singles to his credit. This chart topping phenom is none other than George Strait.

George Strait has amassed all those chart toppers over a thirty year career that has seen him sell 68.5 million records. From his first hit, "Unwound", to his most recent album, Strait has shown an ability to create music that is loved by everyone and also endures the test of time. He has been able to adapt his style to stay current while never losing the tie to the roots that made him famous.

With so many number one chart toppers, it is hard to pick out just five from the group. However, there are certain tunes that tell stories that anyone can relate to, and one of his best is "Check Yes or No". It won the Country Music Award single of the year back in 1996, telling a tale that everyone growing up can remember in some way. The innocence of young love and the notes being passed, asking the recipient if they love them by checking yes or no. It is a story of a romance that stands the test of time.

For those that know George for more of his love ballad style, he has been known to throw a change up in there every so often. One of those different offerings is "All My Ex's Live in Texas". Gone are those verses of deep love and devotion, or the chorus that laments the loss of a departed love. No, Strait changes his tune and croons about all the ladies that he left behind deep in the heart of Texas, opting for the safety of Tennessee.

There are many fans that enjoy George because he can pull at the heart strings with some of his best lyrics. Take as a case in point the song, "Cross My Heart". Cross my heart has become one of the timeless songs in the first dance category at weddings. The words ooze love from every pore, seemingly reaching inside the heart and telling it exactly what it needs to hear to bring a smile and a few tears.

"Amarillo by Morning" is another tune that deserves to make it into a George Strait Top 5 list. Though the lyrics and storytelling in this classic are good enough to put this on the chart, but there are musical intricacies that make it even more memorable. The melody put forth by the fiddle is magic, combined with the way the song switches keys effortlessly makes it worthy of the top song on any George Strait list.

Finally, a trip back to 1983 is in order, wrapping up this list with "You Look So Good in Love". One can almost see the scene being painted brilliantly by George and his storytelling voice. The feel of despair knowing that the woman he loves is with someone else, but then managing to reach inside and feel joy that his lost love is at least finding happiness.

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