Introduction
Released in September 1995, “Check Yes or No” stands as one of George Strait’s most enduring and beloved songs. Written by Nashville songwriters Danny Wells and Dana Hunt Black, the track marked both writers’ first major cut, and it quickly became a defining moment in Strait’s illustrious career.
At its heart, the song tells a simple yet powerful story: two young school-children passing notes in class, culminating in the famous refrain, “If you want to / take me by the hand / If you want to / I think this is how love goes / Check yes or no.” The narrative then jumps ahead to adulthood, to a celebration of lasting love—a reminder that what began with a little note can carry through years of commitment and joy.
Strait recorded the song on April 10, 1995, at Emerald Sound Studios in Nashville; it was released as the lead single from his box-set album Strait Out of the Box. The single soared to No.1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Songs chart—holding the top spot for four weeks—and also reached No.1 in Canada.
Beyond its commercial success, “Check Yes or No” resonates because of its relatable premise: young love, innocent beginnings, and lifelong devotion. As one writer observed, it “captures the innocence of childhood… while also delivering on the promise of that innocence.” The song earned Strait both the Country Music Association (CMA) and Academy of Country Music (ACM) Single of the Year awards.
Today, “Check Yes or No” remains a staple of country-radio playlists, a favourite at weddings and–most importantly–a part of how George Strait helped define a generation of modern country music.