Introduction
“Every Little Honky Tonk Bar” is a song by George Strait, released on February 11, 2019, as the lead single from his 30th studio album, Honky Tonk Time Machine. The track was co-written by Strait, his son Bubba Strait, and longtime collaborator Dean Dillon. The inspiration for the song came during a late-night writing session at Strait’s ranch in South Texas, when Bubba suggested the line, “Whiskey is the gasoline that lights the fire that burns the bridge,” sparking the creation of the song .
The song captures the essence of life in a honky tonk bar, depicting scenes of dancing, drinking, and the ups and downs of relationships. Its lyrics paint vivid pictures of neon lights, jukebox tunes, and the lively atmosphere typical of such establishments . Musically, it features a traditional country sound with elements that evoke the classic honky tonk vibe.
The official music video, released in May 2019, showcases live performance footage of Strait, reflecting the song’s energetic and authentic feel . “Every Little Honky Tonk Bar” achieved commercial success, reaching number 17 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart and number 20 on the Hot Country Songs chart .
This song exemplifies George Strait’s enduring influence in country music, blending storytelling with musical craftsmanship to celebrate the timeless allure of honky tonk bars.