Introduction
George Strait – If You’re Thinking You Want a Stranger (There’s One Coming Home): A Classic Country Take on Love and Renewal
Released in 1982 as part of George Strait’s Strait from the Heart album, “If You’re Thinking You Want a Stranger (There’s One Coming Home)” was one of the early hits that helped establish Strait’s career in country music. The song, written by Blake Mevis and David Wills, blends classic country themes of love, relationships, and reconciliation with Strait’s signature smooth vocal delivery. With its traditional honky-tonk sound and heartfelt lyrics, the song remains a favorite among fans and showcases Strait’s ability to convey vulnerability and sincerity.
Lyrically, “If You’re Thinking You Want a Stranger” tells the story of a man who realizes that his relationship has grown stale, and his partner may be looking for someone new. Instead of accepting the drift apart, the narrator offers to reinvent himself, essentially becoming the “stranger” his partner is seeking. The lyrics, “If you’re thinking you want a stranger, I’ll soon be there / You’re gonna see a change in me, this time I swear,” convey both a plea and a promise of renewal in the relationship. The narrator is willing to make a change to win back his partner’s affection, reflecting the themes of reconciliation and commitment that are often central to country music.
The chorus, “If you’re thinkin’ you want a stranger, there’s one coming home,” is catchy and clever, playing on the idea that the solution to relationship troubles may not always involve finding someone new, but rediscovering the connection within the relationship itself.
Musically, the song is driven by a traditional country arrangement, featuring twangy electric guitars, a steady rhythm section, and hints of steel guitar, which give it a honky-tonk feel. The upbeat tempo contrasts slightly with the more serious subject matter, making the song both fun to listen to and emotionally resonant. Strait’s vocals, as always, are smooth and effortless, with his ability to infuse the song with emotion while maintaining his signature laid-back style.
“If You’re Thinking You Want a Stranger” became a commercial success, reaching No. 3 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. It was one of the key singles from Strait from the Heart, an album that solidified George Strait’s status as one of the rising stars in country music. The song’s blend of traditional country sounds with relatable, heartfelt lyrics helped Strait connect with a broad audience, and it became a staple in his early catalog.
In conclusion, “If You’re Thinking You Want a Stranger (There’s One Coming Home)” is a classic George Strait song that combines clever lyrics, traditional country instrumentation, and Strait’s signature vocal style. Its themes of love, renewal, and commitment continue to resonate with fans, and the song remains an important part of Strait’s early success in the country music world. With its catchy melody and heartfelt message, it’s a reminder of why George Strait is often referred to as the “King of Country.”