About the song
“Carrying Your Love with Me” is a cherished song by George Strait, released in May 1997 as the second single and title track from his album of the same name. Written by Steve Bogard and Jeff Stevens, the song quickly made a significant impact, reaching the top of the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart and becoming one of Strait’s defining hits.
The song beautifully encapsulates the feeling of being separated from a loved one. It tells the story of a man who must travel away from home but carries the love of his partner with him, no matter where he goes. The lyrics are poignant, with lines like “Baby all I got is this beat up leather bag, and everything I own don’t fill up half,” and the memorable chorus, “I’m carrying your love with me, West Virginia down to Tennessee.” These words convey a deep sense of longing and affection, reflecting the emotional core of the song.
The music video, directed by Christopher Cain, was a visual treat that premiered on CMT as its “Hot Shot Video of the Week” in May 1997. The video starts in black-and-white, depicting Strait walking into an empty auditorium with a leather bag. As the video transitions to color, it captures scenes of Strait traveling and reflecting on his absence from home, matching the song’s theme of separation and love.
“Carrying Your Love with Me” was well-received, earning praise for its traditional country sound and Strait’s heartfelt delivery. It was also nominated for Best Male Country Vocal Performance at the 1998 Grammy Awards and was included in Country Universe’s list of the top 400 greatest songs of the 1990s.
Despite criticisms suggesting it was not groundbreaking, the song played a crucial role in maintaining the relevance of traditional country music during a time dominated by pop country. Music critics, including Tony Brown and Alexander Wiley, praised Strait’s ability to select and perform hit songs, highlighting “Carrying Your Love with Me” as a standout track.
The song’s enduring appeal was reaffirmed in July 2022 when it inspired a viral TikTok trend through a country rap remix by David Morris. This remix introduced a new generation to the classic, proving the song’s lasting impact.
In summary, “Carrying Your Love with Me” is a testament to George Strait’s skill in capturing heartfelt emotions through music. Its success, both on the charts and in popular culture, reflects its significance as a classic country ballad that resonates with listeners of all ages.
Video
Lyrics
Baby all I got’s this beat up leather bag
And everything I own don’t fill up half
But don’t you worry ’bout the way I pack
All I care about is gettin’ back real soon
A goodbye kiss is all I need from you
‘Cause I’m carryin’ your love with me
West Virginia down to Tennessee
I’ll be movin’ with the good Lord’s speed
Carryin’ your love with me
It’s my strength for holdin’ on
Every minute that I have to be gone
I’ll have everything I’ll ever need
I’m carryin’ your love with me
On a lonely highway stuck out in the rain
Darlin’ all I have to do is speak your name
The clouds roll back and the waters part
The sun starts shinin’ in my heart for you
You’re right there in everything I do
‘Cause I’m carryin’ your love with me
West Virginia down to Tennesse
I’ll be movin’ with the good Lord’s speed
Carryin’ your love with me
It’s my strength for holdin’ on
Every minute that I have to be gone
I’ll have everything I’ll ever need
I’m carryin’ your love with me
It’s my strength for holdin’ on
Every minute that I have to be gone
I’ll have everything I’ll ever need
I’m carryin’ your love with me
I’m carryin’ your love with me
I’m carryin’ your love with me
West Virginia down to Tennessee
I’ll be movin’ with the good Lord’s speed
Carrying’ your love with me