Introduction
Released on August 26, 1985, George Strait’s “The Chair” stands as one of the most distinctive and enduring songs in country music history. Written by Hank Cochran and Dean Dillon, the track emerged from a late-night songwriting session, reportedly completed in just twenty minutes as the duo were wrapping up a long night of writing .
What sets “The Chair” apart is its unconventional structure: it lacks a chorus or refrain, unfolding entirely through a one-sided conversation. The narrative begins with the line, “Well excuse me, but I think you’ve got my chair,” and progresses as the man engages a woman in conversation at a dance club, culminating in the revelation that the chair never belonged to him .
Upon its release as the lead single from Strait’s fifth studio album, Something Special, “The Chair” resonated with audiences, climbing to the top of the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart on December 21, 1985 . The song’s success further solidified Strait’s reputation, marking his seventh No. 1 hit and contributing to his record of 44 chart-topping singles .
Critics have lauded “The Chair” for its storytelling and Strait’s nuanced performance. Rolling Stone ranked it among the 200 Greatest Country Songs of All Time, highlighting its suave delivery and the song’s ability to convey a complete narrative without a traditional chorus . The song’s minimalist arrangement and conversational lyrics showcase Strait’s ability to convey depth and emotion with subtlety, making it a standout in his extensive catalog.
Decades later, “The Chair” remains a testament to the power of simplicity in songwriting and performance, exemplifying George Strait’s influence in shaping the neotraditional country sound of the 1980s.
Video
Lyrics
Well, excuse me, but I think you’ve got my chair
No, that one’s not taken, I don’t mind if you sit here
I’ll be glad to share
Yeah, it’s usually packed here on Friday nights
Oh, if you don’t mind, could I talk you out of a light?
Well, thank you, could I drink you a buy?
Oh, listen to me, what I mean is, can I buy you a drink?
Anything you please
Oh, you’re welcome, well, I don’t think I caught your name
Are you waiting for someone to meet you here?
Well, that makes two of us, glad you came
No, I don’t know the name of the band
But they’re good, aren’t they?
Would you like to dance?
Yeah, I like this song too, it reminds me of you and me, baby
Do you think there’s a chance that later on I could drive you home?
No, I don’t mind at all
Oh, I like you too, and to tell you the truth
That wasn’t my chair after all
Oh, I like you too, and to tell you the truth
That wasn’t my chair after all