About the Song
“Round About Way” by George Strait is a breezy, cleverly written honky-tonk tune that brings humor, toe-tapping rhythm, and classic country charm together in perfect harmony. Released in 1998 as the fourth single from his platinum-certified album Carrying Your Love with Me, the song hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart, proving once again that Strait could blend wit and western swing with effortless charisma.
Lyrically, the song is a playful take on heartbreak and unexpected healing. The narrator tells the story of how he got over a breakup—not directly, but in a “round about way.” He didn’t take the usual path of moping or reminiscing. Instead, he went out dancing, drinking, and living it up, eventually realizing that all that fun led him away from his sorrow. It’s a fresh spin on the post-breakup narrative, where the heart mends not with tears, but with two-steps, cold beers, and neon lights.
George Strait’s delivery is cool and easygoing, with his unmistakable Texan twang and sly vocal grin. He brings just the right amount of swagger to the song, letting the cleverness of the lyrics shine through without overselling it. It’s classic Strait—laid-back but sharp, polished yet rooted in tradition.
Musically, “Round About Way” is pure Western swing revival. It features a playful fiddle, upright bass lines, bright steel guitar, and brushed snare drums—evoking the feel of an old-school Texas dancehall on a Friday night. The rhythm bounces along with infectious energy, and the instrumental breaks give it plenty of boot-scootin’ charm.
What makes this track so enjoyable is how it balances humor and musical sophistication. It’s lighthearted, but not throwaway—thanks to Strait’s impeccable phrasing and the airtight arrangement, it feels timeless. It also serves as a reminder that traditional country music can be both fun and smart, and George Strait has always had a talent for making it sound effortless.