About The Song
While George Strait’s 1983 rendition of “Right or Wrong” may have cemented the song’s place in contemporary country music, its roots stretch back a surprising distance. The ballad first emerged in the 1920s, penned by Arthur Sizemore and Paul Biese with lyrics from Haven Gillespie. Originally a jazz ballad titled “A Beautiful Fox-Trot Ballad,” it found early success with artists like Emmett Miller and, most notably, Bob Wills and his Texas Playboys.
Wills infused the song with Western swing, transforming it into a classic dancehall number. His 1941 recording remains a cherished piece of Texas musical history. Yet, “Right or Wrong” was destined for another chapter.
Enter George Strait, then a rising star in the country music scene. In 1983, he chose the song as the title track for his third studio album. Strait’s version retained the core melody and sentimental lyrics, but injected them with a signature blend of honesty and twang. His smooth vocals and stripped-down instrumentation gave the song a fresh intimacy, resonating deeply with country audiences.
Strait’s “Right or Wrong” topped the Billboard Country charts, becoming one of his signature hits and propelling the album to platinum status. More importantly, it brought the song to a new generation of listeners, solidifying its place as a timeless country standard.
So, when you hear George Strait’s “Right or Wrong,” remember that it carries the echoes of two eras. It’s a love song that dances to the rhythm of time, showcasing the transformative power of music and the enduring appeal of a well-crafted melody. It’s a testament to the fact that sometimes, the right song, in the right hands, can transcend both genres and decades, leaving a lasting mark on hearts and dance floors alike.
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Lyrics
Right or wrong, I’ll always love you.
Oh you’re gone, I can’t forget.
Right or wrong, I’ll keep on dreaming.
Still I wake with that same ol’ regret.
All along I knew I’d lose you,
Though I prayed that you’d be true.
In your heart please just remember
Right or wrong, I’m still in love with you.Right or wrong, I’ll always love you.
Oh you’re gone, I can’t forget.
Right or wrong, I’ll keep on dreaming.
Still I wake with that same ol’ regret.
All along I knew I’d lose you,
Though I prayed that you’d be true.
In your heart please just remember
Right or wrong, I’m still in love with you.