Who is Considered the 'King of Country'?
The title 'King of Country' is often attributed to George Strait, an iconic figure in the country music genre. Born on May 18, 1952, in Poteet, Texas, Strait has had a prolific career since the early 1980s, earning significant acclaim and numerous awards. His music style combines traditional country with elements of honky-tonk, and he is known for his smooth vocals and storytelling capabilities.
Strait holds more than 60 number-one hits in his career, more than any other artist in any genre, which solidifies his reputation within the industry. His impressive discography includes over 30 studio albums, and he has sold over 100 million records worldwide, making him one of the best-selling musical artists of all time.
In addition to his commercial success, Strait is revered for his influence on the country music scene, paving the way for future artists and helping to keep traditional country music alive during periods of change in the genre. His contributions have earned him several honors, including induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2006.
While other artists might also be considered for the title, such as Johnny Cash and Willie Nelson, George Strait's remarkable impact, extensive record sales, and enduring popularity make him the most widely recognized figure known as the 'King of Country.'