It’s not for nothing that they call George Strait “the King of Country.” Even in a world that’s given to hyperbole Strait’s achievements often beggar belief. George has seen 60 songs feature on the country charts and he has enjoyed more No. 1 hits than any other artist in any sphere of popular music, breaking the record previously held by the esteemed Conway Twitty. That he’s managed such feats during an era when record sales have diversified makes the achievement even more remarkable. His album sales–all for MCA–number close to 70 million in the U.S, alone and if we’re talking precious metal let it be known that these include 13 multi-platinum, 33 platinum and 38 gold albums. Originally issued in 2011 as a part of Universal’sIcon series, Strait’s essential edition offers up 11 chart busters including “Check Yes or No,” “Amarillo By Morning,” “I Cross My Heart,” “All My Ex’s Live in Texas” and “Love Without End, Amen.”
