About the Song
“Every Little Honky Tonk Bar,” released in 2019, is a toe-tapping, neon-lit anthem from the King of Country himself, George Strait. Co-written by George Strait, his son Bubba Strait, and longtime collaborator Dean Dillon, the song appears on his album Honky Tonk Time Machine and captures the joy, rhythm, and resilience of classic country nightlife. With its catchy melody, sharp wit, and Strait’s signature smooth delivery, this track feels like a return to everything fans love about traditional country.
Lyrically, the song takes a fun and clever look at how heartaches, celebrations, and weekend escapes all somehow find their way into “every little honky tonk bar.” Whether it’s a breakup or a raise, a lost job or a found love, the answer’s always the same: cold beer, good music, and a dance floor that forgives all. With lines like “Friday night, everybody’s getting loud / The neon light’s looking for a crowd,” Strait reminds us that the honky tonk isn’t just a place—it’s a state of mind.
The official music video brings that feeling to life with a charming blend of live performance shots, glowing neon signs, and scenes from real bars across America. It celebrates the grit and glamour of local venues, filled with two-steppers, pool tables, jukeboxes, and the unmistakable hum of country music echoing through the night. There’s no polish here—just a raw, joyful celebration of a culture that Strait has championed his entire career.
Musically, the song blends classic Texas swing with honky-tonk flair—twangy guitars, barroom piano, and a rhythm that’s impossible to sit still through. Strait’s vocals, as steady and golden as ever, guide the song with effortless charm. It’s a reminder that even after decades at the top, George Strait still knows how to throw down like a Saturday night regular.
“Every Little Honky Tonk Bar” quickly became a fan favorite and a standout on the Honky Tonk Time Machine album, proving that even well into his legendary career, George Strait continues to evolve while staying deeply rooted in the sounds that made him who he is.
For longtime fans and new listeners alike, the song is an invitation to grab a drink, hit the dance floor, and remember that no matter what life throws your way—there’s always a song and a bar to make it better.