Few country stars inspire as much devotion as George Strait. At 65 years old, the King of Country has sold over over 100 million records worldwide. But the notoriously press shy singer doesn’t make a habit of sharing a lot of personal information. Here are 9 Strait facts even the most hardcore country fans may not know.
He eloped with his high school sweetheart. Strait met Norma Voss in high school and it was love at first sight. The two married in Mexico on December 4, 1971. Forty five years later, George and Norma are still going strong.
He served in the U.S. Army Shortly after he married Norma, Strait enlisted in the U.S. Army. He was stationed in Hawaii as part of the 25th Infantry Division. Strait’s time in the service helped further his music career.
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Although he had formed a garage band in high school, Strait’s first taste of country fame was with his U.S. Army-sponsored band, Rambling Country. He has a degree in agriculture.
His son is a songwriter. George Sr. isn’t the only musically-inclined member of his family. His son George Jr., known as “Bubba,” has co-written several songs with his famous dad, including “Arkansas Dave” and “Living for the Night.”
His mother left when he was young Strait’s parents divorced when he was in the fourth grade. His mother Doris moved away with Strait’s sister. George and his brother Johny Jr., also known as “Buddy,” were raised by their father, a math teacher. The family lived on a ranch in Pearsall, Texas.