About the Song
In the early 1980s, as country music was undergoing a shift toward more polished, pop-influenced sounds, a young George Strait was quietly leading a return to its roots—with a Stetson, a smooth baritone, and songs that told real stories. One of the pivotal tracks that helped launch his career was “If You’re Thinking You Want a Stranger (There’s One Coming Home),” released in 1982 as the second single from his sophomore album Strait from the Heart.
Written by Jimmy Darrell and Wayne Carson, the song is a heartfelt plea wrapped in the sound of classic Texas country. It tells the story of a man who’s been away—physically and emotionally—and is now ready to return, not just to the house he left behind, but to the love he nearly lost. “If you’re thinking you want a stranger, there’s one coming home,” he sings, acknowledging past mistakes while offering a fresh start. It’s a message full of humility and hope, touching on the universal longing to make things right with someone who matters.
George Strait’s performance is understated but deeply sincere. He doesn’t oversell the emotion—he lets the lyrics and the melody do the work. Backed by clean, twangy guitar lines, steel guitar, and a traditional shuffle rhythm, the song is a masterclass in simplicity and storytelling. It’s the kind of track that brings listeners back to what country music has always done best: telling real stories about real people.
Though not as commercially massive as some of his later chart-toppers, “If You’re Thinking You Want a Stranger” was a Top 5 hit and played a crucial role in establishing Strait’s reputation as a torchbearer for traditional country. It laid the foundation for a career defined by consistency, integrity, and a deep respect for the genre’s heritage.
For longtime fans, this song is a nostalgic reminder of Strait’s early days. For new listeners, it’s a perfect introduction to the kind of artist he’s always been—one who doesn’t need gimmicks to make an impact. Just a good song, a great voice, and the truth.