The Weight of the Badge
| "The Weight of the Badge" | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
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| Single by George Strait | ||||
| from the album Honky Tonk Time Machine | ||||
| Released | September 30, 2019 | |||
| Recorded | 2018 | |||
| Genre | Neotraditional country | |||
| Length | 3:46 | |||
| Label | MCA Nashville | |||
| Songwriter(s) |
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| Producer(s) |
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| George Strait singles chronology | ||||
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| Music video | ||||
| "The Weight of the Badge" on YouTube | ||||
"The Weight of the Badge" is a song by American country music singer George Strait. It was released on September 30, 2019, as the second single from his thirtieth studio album Honky Tonk Time Machine. Strait co-wrote the song with Dean Dillon and Strait's son, Bubba.
The song pays tribute to the first responders—particularly police officers—and explores the personal and emotional burdens that accompany a life of service.
Background
"The Weight of the Badge" was co-written by George Strait, Bubba Strait, and Dean Dillon.[1] The song focuses on a police officer who follows in his father's footsteps, committing 15 years to public service while shouldering the emotional strain of leaving his family behind each day.[1] Strait has emphasized that the song is meant to highlight the strength and selflessness of those who serve their communities daily, without delving into divisive political themes.[2]
The song was released on September 30, 2019, as Honky Tonk Time Machine's second single after "Every Little Honky Tonk Bar."[3]
Strait stated that the video and song were a tribute to "our friends and neighbors who carry the weight of the badge each day."[4] He added, "We appreciate you and the sacrifices you and your families make."[5]
Themes
The song features a traditional country arrangement, including acoustic guitar, gentle piano, and mournful fiddle.[1] The lyrics begin with a vivid picture of a long graveyard shift, with the officer saying goodbye to his family.[5] As the narrative progresses, the song depicts the officer being hospitalized after an injury vowing to recover, reinforcing the idea of duty, resilience, and unwavering strength.[1][3]
The song avoids political statements and instead centers on the deeply personal and emotional aspects of law enforcement.[2]
Music video
The official music video was released on October 28, 2021, coinciding with First Responders Day.[4][5] The video opens with footage of police officers raising the American flag at the New York State Police Academy. A voiceover reflects on the sacrifices made by officers, including the emotional toll on their families.[6][5] Throughout the video, viewers see interviews with first responders and their family members, who speak about the gravity of the job and how it affects their personal lives.[6][5]
At the conclusion of the video, a first responder gifts Strait a miniature replica of his badge and one of his original collar honors in gratitude for the tribute.[5] The video premiered at the First Responders Children's Foundation 20th Anniversary Gala in New York City.[5] Additionally, Strait launched a website to encourage people to share their own stories and appreciation for first responders.[5]
Critical reception
Critics praised the song for its emotional depth and respectful portrayal of law enforcement. The song stood out on Honky Tonk Time Machine for its sobering tone, contrasting with the more upbeat tracks.[3][7]
The song's understated yet poignant delivery, combined with its evocative production and Strait's heartfelt vocals, earned it acclaim as one of the most meaningful tracks on the album.[2]
While "The Weight of the Badge" did not achieve the same commercial success as "Every Little Honky Tonk Bar," it resonated deeply with fans and communities connected to the songs message, while also becoming a staple of Strait's live performances.[7]
Charts
| Chart (2019) | Peak position |
|---|---|
| US Country Airplay (Billboard)[8] | 43 |
| US Hot Country Songs (Billboard)[9] | 51 |
References
- ^ a b c d Dukes, Billy; Houghton, Cillea (September 16, 2019). "George Strait Tributes Police with Solemn New Song 'The Weight of the Badge' [Listen]". Taste of Country. Retrieved July 17, 2025.
- ^ a b c Freeman, Jon (March 15, 2019). "Hear George Strait Pay Tribute to a Policeman in New 'The Weight of the Badge'". Rolling Stone. Retrieved July 17, 2025.
- ^ a b c Liptak, Carena (September 17, 2019). "George Strait Salutes Police Officers in New Ballad, 'The Weight of the Badge' [Listen]". The Boot. Retrieved July 17, 2025.
- ^ a b Brister, Kaylee (October 28, 2021). "George Strait's "The Weight of the Badge" Video". Cowboys and Indians. Retrieved July 17, 2025.
- ^ a b c d e f g h Konicki, Lisa (October 28, 2021). "George Strait Releases Powerful New Video for "The Weight of the Badge" in Honor of First Responders". American Songwriter. Retrieved July 17, 2025.
- ^ a b Day, Nate (October 28, 2021). "George Strait honors polics in 'The Weight of the Badge' music video". Fox News. Retrieved July 17, 2025.
- ^ a b Sexton, Paul (September 17, 2019). "George Strait Feels 'The Weight Of The Badge' On New Single". uDiscover Music. Retrieved July 17, 2025.
- ^ "George Strait Chart History (Country Airplay)". Billboard. Retrieved July 17, 2025.
- ^ "George Strait Chart History (Hot Country Songs)". Billboard. Retrieved July 17, 2025.