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Introduction
“Check Yes or No” is a signature song by American country music icon George Strait. Released in September 1995, it quickly ascended the charts, becoming a defining hit of the decade. The song was the lead single from Strait’s box set Strait Out of the Box.
Written by Danny Wells and Dana Hunt Black, “Check Yes or No” is a classic example of country music storytelling. It tells the tale of a relationship that begins with innocent childhood crushes and evolves into a lasting, mature love. The lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia, reminiscing about passing notes in class and playground flirtations, using the simple act of a “check yes or no” note as a central metaphor.
The song resonated with a broad audience due to its universal theme of enduring love and its ability to transport listeners back to their own childhood experiences. Strait’s delivery, combined with the song’s catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics, contributed to its widespread appeal.
“Check Yes or No” achieved significant commercial success, reaching number one on both the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart and the Canadian RPM Country chart. Its popularity further solidified George Strait’s status as a leading figure in country music. The song also garnered critical acclaim, winning both the Country Music Association (CMA) and the Academy of Country Music (ACM) Single of the Year awards. Its impact extends beyond its initial release, remaining a beloved classic and a staple of George Strait’s extensive catalog. The song’s narrative structure, which seamlessly transitions from childhood infatuation to adult commitment, continues to resonate with audiences of all ages.
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Lyrics
It started way back in third grade I used to sit beside Emmylou Hayes A pink dress, a matching bow in her ponytail She kissed me on the school bus but told me not to tell Next day I chased her ’round the playground ‘Cross the monkey bars to the merry-go-round And Emmylou got caught passing me a note Before the teacher took it I read what she wrote
“Do you love me? Do you wanna be my friend? And if you do Well then don’t be afraid to take me by the hand If you want to I think this is how love goes Check yes or no”
Now we’re grown up and she’s my wife Still like two kids with stars in our eyes Ain’t much changed, I still chase Emmylou Up and down the hall, around the bed in our room
Last night I took her out in a white limousine …