Introduction
Wrapped Around Her Finger: A Look at George Strait’s Charming Country Hit
While the smooth vocals and catchy melody of “Wrapped” might seem like a quintessential George Strait original, the song’s origins lie with Texas singer-songwriter Bruce Robison. Robison, known for his poignant storytelling in country music, penned “Wrapped” in 1998. The song served as the title track for his album of the same year, resonating with audiences for its relatable portrayal of lingering love.
Robison’s “Wrapped” wasn’t just a personal project; it found its way into the hearts of fellow musicians. Kelly Willis, Robison’s wife at the time and a respected country artist in her own right, included her rendition of “Wrapped” on her 1998 album “What I Deserve.” This exposure likely caught the ear of George Strait, the “King of Country.”
Strait, known for his traditional country sound and unmatched charisma, was no stranger to covering well-written songs. However, “Wrapped” marked only the second time in his long career that he chose to record a song previously released by another artist. The first instance was Robison’s “Desperately,” which Strait included on his 2003 album “Honkytonkville.”
When Strait released his album “It Just Comes Natural” in 2006, “Wrapped” was included as the second single. Strait’s masterful delivery breathed new life into the song, capturing the emotional vulnerability and undeniable pull described in the lyrics. His signature smooth vocals on lines like “My heart beats faster, I hear your name. I feel my confidence slippin’ away” resonated with listeners, making “Wrapped” a chart-topping hit.
“Wrapped” transcended its status as a cover song. Strait’s version became a country standard, a song that perfectly captured the struggle of overcoming lingering feelings for someone special. Whether you’re a longtime George Strait fan or simply appreciate a heartfelt country ballad, “Wrapped” offers a relatable story wrapped in a timeless melody.