George Strait tributes real life superheroes in the new song “The Weight of the Badge,” and in its official music video, the country legend offers a heartfelt “thank you.”
Released in honor of First Responders Day (October 28), “The Weight of the Badge” was co-written by Strait and his son, Bubba, with longtime collaborator Dean Dillon, arriving as a quiet country contemplation. In classic King of Country style, the track is a tribute to those who dedicate themselves to serving and protecting others — no matter what it may cost — and its video features some of those real life heroes and their families, putting the human strength it takes to shoulder “The Weight of the Badge” front and center.
“The men and women in this music video are our friends and neighbors who carry the weight of the badge each day,” Strait explains. “Thank you. We appreciate you and the sacrifices you and your families make.”
“He swore that oath to protect and serve / Pours his heart and soul into both those words / Lays his life on the line / And the line he walks is razor fine / Tempered strength is always tough / But he ain’t gonna buckle under the weight of the badge,” goes the song.
“The Weight of the Badge” marks George Strait’s 100th entry on the Billboard Country Airplay chart, and the legendary star also launched TheWeightOfTheBadge.com to invite fans to share their stories and gratitude for the first responders in their lives.
Next month Strait has three big live concert dates, visiting Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium on November 5, Evansville, Indiana’s Ford Center November 5 and Minneapolis, Minnesota’s US Bank Stadium on November 13. He’ll then return to Las Vegas for his ongoing Strait to Vegas arena residency, which features four more shows in December.