Introduction
Today We Celebrate the Anniversary of “Check Yes or No”
Few songs in country music capture innocence, joy, and timeless storytelling quite like George Strait’s “Check Yes or No.” Today marks the anniversary of its release, a perfect moment to reflect on how a simple tale of young love became one of the most enduring anthems in the King of Country’s legendary career.
Released in September 1995 as the lead single from Strait’s box set Strait Out of the Box, “Check Yes or No” was an immediate hit. Written by Dana Hunt and Danny Wells, the song tells the story of childhood sweethearts whose simple schoolyard note—“Do you love me, do you want to be my friend?”—blossoms into a lifelong romance. The lyrics are straightforward, but in Strait’s hands, they take on a universal warmth that has resonated with fans for nearly three decades.
At the time of its release, the song quickly climbed to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart, solidifying Strait’s reputation as not just a hitmaker, but a storyteller who could connect with listeners across generations. What makes “Check Yes or No” so enduring is its blend of humor, nostalgia, and sincerity. Strait’s calm, steady vocal delivery turns what could have been a novelty song into a heartfelt celebration of lasting love.
For many fans, the song became more than just a radio hit—it became part of their lives. Couples have shared that “Check Yes or No” was played at weddings, anniversaries, and even proposals. Its simple message about love’s beginnings and endurance makes it timeless, cutting across age and background.
The music video, released alongside the single, added to the charm. Featuring a lighthearted story that mirrored the song’s lyrics, it helped cement “Check Yes or No” as a staple of 1990s country music. Today, clips of that video are still shared online, often paired with stories from fans who remember where they were when they first heard the song.
For George Strait, “Check Yes or No” was another milestone in a career already filled with record-breaking achievements. By the mid-1990s, Strait was already known as the King of Country, but songs like this one proved that his music could still surprise and delight audiences. Even after more than 60 No. 1 singles, “Check Yes or No” continues to stand out as a defining moment.
As we celebrate its anniversary, the song remains as relevant as ever. In a world where love stories can be complicated, George Strait’s classic reminds us that sometimes the simplest gestures—like passing a handwritten note—are the ones that last a lifetime.
Nearly 30 years after its release, “Check Yes or No” is more than just a song—it’s a piece of country music history. It captures the essence of George Strait’s artistry: honest, timeless, and rooted in the everyday stories that bind us all.
Today, fans everywhere tip their hats to the King and celebrate the little schoolyard note that grew into one of the greatest love songs in country music.