Introduction
“Every Little Honky Tonk Bar,” released in 2019, isn’t just a song by George Strait, the King of Country. It’s a love letter to the very essence of country music itself, the honky tonk. These lively bars, often found along highways and in small towns, have been a cornerstone of country music culture for decades.
The song itself has a rich history. Co-written by Strait and Dean Dillon, a collaborator on many of Strait’s hits, “Every Little Honky Tonk Bar” arrived in 2019 as the lead single for Strait’s album “Honky Tonk Time Machine.” The album title itself reflects the song’s intent: a nostalgic journey through the heart of country music.
But the history goes deeper. Honky tonks themselves have a long and colorful past. The term itself likely emerged in the early 20th century, with saloons in Texas and the Southwest evolving into these music venues. Often featuring live music, dancing, and a bit of a rough-and-tumble atmosphere, honky tonks became a place for working-class folks to unwind, socialize, and share stories – experiences that directly fueled the music coming out of them.
Legendary country singers like Hank Williams, Johnny Cash, and Willie Nelson all had their share of honky tonk nights. Their songs, filled with tales of heartbreak, love, and everyday struggles, mirrored the lives of the people who frequented these bars. “Every Little Honky Tonk Bar” is a continuation of that tradition.
So, when you hit play on “Every Little Honky Tonk Bar,” you’re not just listening to a song. You’re taking a trip through the heart of country music, a journey that winds through dusty roads, smoky nights, and the enduring spirit of a genre born in these very places.