About the song
Murder on Music Row is a duet between country music legends George Strait and Alan Jackson. It was released in 2000 on Strait’s album Latest Greatest Straitest Hits and quickly became a hit with country music fans.
The song is a lament about the decline of traditional country music and the rise of what was then called “country pop”. The singers express their dismay that the core values of country music—real stories, simple melodies, and honest lyrics—were being replaced by a slick, polished sound that lacked depth.
A highlight of the song is the powerful vocal pairing of Strait and Jackson. Strait delivers his trademark rich, warm vocals, while Jackson brings a strong, edgy sound. Their voices blend together to create a performance that is both memorable and moving.
Murder on Music Row is more than just a great song; it is also a call to action to preserve the traditional values of country music. The song was praised by critics and fans alike and is considered one of the greatest country songs of all time.
Here are some additional details about the song:
- Written by: Larry Cordle, Larry Shell
- Performed by: George Strait, Alan Jackson
- Album: Latest Greatest Straitest Hits (George Strait)
- Released: 2000
- Genre: Country music
- Awards: Won “Song of the Year” at the 2000 International Bluegrass Music Awards
Murder on Music Row is a meaningful and powerful song that is well worth a listen. If you are a fan of country music, especially traditional country music, then this song is for you.
Video
Lyrics
“Murder On Music Row”
Nobody saw him running from sixteenth avenue.
They never found the fingerprint or the weapon that was used.
But someone killed country music, cut out its heart and soul.
They got away with murder down on music row.The almighty dollar and the lust for worldwide fame
Slowly killed tradition and for that someone should hang (oh, you tell them Alan).
They all say not guilty, but the evidence will show
That murder was committed down on music row.[Chorus:]
For the steel guitars no longer cry and fiddles barely play,
But drums and rock ‘n roll guitars are mixed up in your face.
Old Hank wouldn’t have a chance on today’s radio
Since they committed murder down on music row.They thought no one would miss it, once it was dead and gone
They said no one would buy them old drinking and cheating songs (I’ll still buy ’em)
Well there ain’t no justice in it and the hard facts are cold
Murder’s been committed down on music row.[Chorus:]
Oh, the steel guitars no longer cry and you can’t hear fiddles play
With drums and rock ‘n roll guitars mixed right up in your face
Why, the Hag, he wouldn’t have a chance on today’s radio
Since they committed murder down on music row
Why, they even tell the Possum to pack up and go back home
There’s been an awful murder down on music row.