About the song
“Write This Down.” Released in 1999 as the lead single from his album Always Never the Same, this track quickly soared to the top of the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart, proving once again that Strait’s knack for picking relatable songs was unparalleled. It’s far more than just a catchy tune; it’s a clever and affectionate take on keeping the spark alive in a long-term relationship, reminding us that even the simplest gestures can hold the most profound meaning.
The lyrics of “Write This Down” offer a delightful piece of advice from a seasoned partner to his beloved, encouraging her to literally “Write This Down” – a playful suggestion to jot down all the ways he expresses his love, especially when he might not say “I love you” as often as she’d like. He details everyday actions and promises that serve as tangible proofs of his affection: “When I bring you flowers for no reason / And I tell you that I love you, and you’re the one” or “When I come home late and you’re asleep / And I whisper that I miss you, from the bottom of my heart.” It speaks to the unspoken language of love, the little things that accumulate over time to form the bedrock of a solid relationship. It’s a beautifully honest acknowledgment that while grand gestures are nice, it’s the consistent, quiet demonstrations of care and devotion that truly define a lasting bond. The song’s charm lies in its gentle humor and its deeply felt sincerity, reminding listeners that love is often found in the details.
George Strait’s vocal performance on “Write This Down” is, as always, impeccable. His smooth, effortlessly confident baritone is perfectly suited to the song’s warm and affectionate tone. He delivers the lyrics with a playful twinkle in his eye, a knowing smile in his voice, making the advice feel both earnest and lighthearted. There’s an unmistakable authenticity in his delivery that makes the listener believe he’s speaking from real-life experience, offering genuine, good-natured counsel. Strait’s brilliance lies in his ability to imbue even a seemingly simple message with profound emotional resonance, making the song feel both personal and universally relatable. He manages to be both the wise, loving partner and the King of Country, all at once.
The musical arrangement of “Write This Down” is classic, uptempo country, characteristic of George Strait’s refined sound in the late 1990s. It features a bright, infectious melody driven by prominent acoustic guitars, a lively fiddle, and a steady, danceable rhythm section. The production is clean, crisp, and polished, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that perfectly complements the song’s affectionate message. It’s an arrangement that feels both contemporary for its time and timeless in its appeal, allowing the song’s charm and Strait’s flawless vocals to shine through.
“Write This Down” resonated deeply with audiences because its message about the true nature of love and communication is universally understood and appreciated. It became another signature number one hit for George Strait, a testament to his consistent ability to find songs that speak to the heart of everyday life and relationships. It remains a beloved staple in his vast catalog, a charming reminder that sometimes, the most important lessons in love are the ones you just have to “Write This Down.”
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Lyrics
I never saw the end in sight
Fools are kind of blind
Thought everything was going alright
But I was running out of time
‘Cause you had one foot out the door
I swear I didn’t see
But if you’re really going away
Here’s some final words from me
Baby, write this down
Take a little note to remind you in case you didn’t know
Tell yourself I love you and I don’t want you to go
Write this down
Take my words and read ’em every day, keep ’em close by
Don’t you let ’em fade away
So you’ll remember what I forgot to say
Write this down
I’ll sign it at the bottom of the page
I’ll swear under oath
‘Cause every single word is true
And I think you need to know
So use it as a bookmark, stick it on your ‘frigerator door
Hang it in a picture frame up above the mantel
Where you’ll see it for sure
Baby, write this down
Take a little note to remind you in case you didn’t know
Tell yourself I love you and I don’t want you to go
Write this down
Take my words and read ’em every day, keep ’em close by
Don’t you let ’em fade away
So you’ll remember what I forgot to say
Write this down
You can find a chisel, I can find a stone
Folks will be reading these words
Long after we’re gone
Baby, write this down
Take a little note to remind you in case you didn’t know
Tell yourself I love you and I don’t want you to go
Write this down
Take my words and read ’em every day, keep ’em close by
Don’t you let ’em fade away
So you’ll remember what I forgot to say
Write this down
Oh I love you and I don’t want you to go
Baby write this down
