George Strait needs no introduction. The Texan’s 120 million records sold, 60 chart-topping hits, and 22 CMA Awards all speak for themselves. Even at 73 years old, he’s still selling out stadiums and shattering records like it’s nothing. Remarkably, the “King of Country” hasn’t forgotten the days when he was shunned by every record label in Nashville. The “Amarillo By Morning” crooner shocked and delighted a crowd of just 400 people when he crashed a Colorado charity event.
Videos by American Songwriter
Colorado Crowd “Lights Up” At George Strait Surprise
Fiddle player Jenee Fleenor, a five-time CMA Musician of the Year who tours with George Strait, shared that the “Fool Hearted Memory” hitmaker took the stage July 17 to perform during the 2025 Songwriter Shuttle Concert and Auction at The Almont Resort and Restaurant in Almont, Colorado.
The event supports Gunnison Tough, an organization that raises money for comprehensive cancer programs in the community. According to Fleenor, songwriter Dean Dillon, who helped found Gunnison Tough, invited Strait to the event. Dillon has penned more than 60 songs for the country music legend, including “Ocean Front Property” and “The Chair.”
The award-winning songwriter “outdid himself this year and brought George in – a total surprise – and it was so fun seeing everyone’s faces light up when he walked out!” Fleenor wrote.
A video posted to TikTok shows Dillon onstage musing, “Something ain’t right about this. I think we’re in the wrong key or something. But I got a buddy of mine I asked to come and help me out… Hey y’all, welcome George Strait.”
Announcing, “I thought that was pretty good timing myself,” the King walked onstage and launched into his 2011 hit “Here for a Good Time” (co-written by Dillon.)
“King of Country” Sells Out Benefit for Texas Flood Victims
George Strait is certainly no stranger to charity concerts. This Sunday, July 27, he will hit the stage at Estancia at Thunder Valley indoor arena in Boerne, Texas, for his “Strait to the Heart’ benefit.
Through their Vaqueros Del Mar charity, Strait is teaming up with longtime business partner Tom Cusick to raise funds for those affected by the catastrophic July 4 flooding in Central Texas. The sold-out show will also feature performances from Riley Green, Wade Bowen and more.
Featured image by Christopher Polk/ via Getty Images
Leave a Reply
Only members can comment. Become a member. Already a member? Log in.