Alan Jackson and George Strait are two of the most iconic figures in country music.

Throughout the decades, both artists have not only captivated audiences with their vocal talents but also embodied the authentic lifestyle of country music. It turns out, George Strait played a significant role in inspiring Alan Jackson to pursue his musical dreams in Nashville.

At the age of 27, Jackson, along with his wife of six years, Denise, made the pivotal decision to move from Newnan, Georgia, to Nashville, Tennessee. Motivated by Strait’s influence, Jackson aimed to dedicate himself fully to his music career in the heart of the country music scene.

George Strait And Alan Jackson Perform “Amarillo By Morning”

Back in June 2014, George Strait captivated a packed AT&T Stadium with his The Cowboy Rides Away Tour. With thousands of fans filling the arena, Strait delivered one of the most unforgettable concerts in country music history.

To mark the special occasion, the country legend invited Alan Jackson to join him on stage. The two sang Strait’s “Amarillo By Morning” together. Shortly after their performance, Jackson had a special message for Strait.

“I just gotta say this is the coolest country music concert that’s ever been right here,” Jackson announced before handing Strait a coke and water that he promised was “clean.”

Jackson then raised a toast to honor over three decades of George Strait’s music, acknowledging Strait as a major inspiration for his own country music career.

“I just wanna say in the early 80s, when I was young man in Georgia…You’re one of the reasons I came to Nashville, Tennessee to make country music. God bless you,” Jackson told Strait.

About “Amarillo By Morning”

Originally written by Terry Stafford and Paul Fraser, “Amarillo By Morning” was first recorded by Stafford in 1973. However, it gained widespread popularity when George Strait covered it in 1982 for his album Strait From The Heart. The “King of Country” propelled the song to the top of the charts, reaching number four on the Billboard Country chart.

The song tells the story of a rodeo cowboy who travels from San Antonio to Amarillo, Texas. Additionally, it captures the loneliness and hardships of life on the road, as well as the cowboy’s dedication to his lifestyle despite the challenges he faces.

Watch George Strait and Alan Jackson sing it below!