Introduction
“All My Ex’s Live in Texas” is a classic country song performed by George Strait, released in April 1987 as the second single from his album Ocean Front Property.
The track showcases Strait’s signature Western swing style, blending honky-tonk rhythms with a playful narrative.
The song was penned by Sanger D. Shafer and his then-wife, Lyndia J. Shafer. It humorously details a man’s decision to relocate to Tennessee to escape the memories of his past relationships, each tied to different Texas locales. The lyrics mention former flames from cities like Abilene, Galveston, and Temple, illustrating the widespread nature of his romantic entanglements across the Lone Star State.
Upon its release, “All My Ex’s Live in Texas” achieved significant commercial success. It reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, marking it as Strait’s 11th chart-topping single. The song’s popularity also earned it a nomination for Best Male Country Vocal Performance at the 1988 Grammy Awards.
Beyond the charts, the song has permeated various aspects of popular culture. A version recorded by Sanger D. Shafer appeared in the film Road House and the video game Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas. Additionally, the track is referenced in the TV series Ash vs Evil Dead and mentioned in rapper Drake’s single “HYFR,” highlighting its enduring influence.
Critically acclaimed, “All My Ex’s Live in Texas” is often cited as one of George Strait’s standout songs. Both Billboard and American Songwriter ranked it among the top entries in their lists of greatest George Strait songs, underscoring its lasting impact on country music enthusiasts.
For those interested in experiencing this iconic track, here’s the official audio:
Video
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