In 1971, George Strait and his wife, Norma, eloped in Mexico, beginning a lifelong partnership that would soon be filled with both joy and unimaginable sorrow. Shortly after their marriage, the couple started a family, welcoming their daughter, Jenifer, in 1972, followed by their son, George Jr. (Bubba), in 1981.
Tragedy struck when Jenifer lost her life in a devastating automobile accident in San Marcos, Texas, at just 13 years old. The grief was overwhelming for the family, and George withdrew from the public eye for years. “I just kind of shut down,” George revealed to The New Yorker in 2017, offering a rare glimpse into his emotional struggle.
Though he was absent from the public stage, George continued to pour his heart into his music. In the wake of Jenifer’s death, he released 11 consecutive number-one singles—an almost unheard-of achievement in the music industry. Among these was “Baby Blue,” a song many speculate is a heartfelt tribute to his daughter, though George has never confirmed it.
Bubba and George shared a deep bond over their love for the rodeo. After graduating from college, Bubba pursued a career as a professional roper, competing in the prestigious Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA). Together, father and son hosted the George Strait Roping Classic, one of the most esteemed rodeo events, which ran from its inception in 1983 until 2017, when George announced that the 35th anniversary would mark its final year.
Today, George and Bubba continue to collaborate creatively, co-writing numerous songs and supporting each other’s musical journeys. Their collaborations include tracks like “Here For a Good Time,” “Living For the Night,” and “Let it Go.” One of the most memorable moments in their shared career came at the 2019 Houston Rodeo Show, when George invited Bubba to join him onstage for a powerful performance of “God and Country Music.” This moment not only showcased Bubba’s musical talent but also solidified the Strait family’s enduring legacy in country music.
View ‘King George’s’ hidden history to learn more about this country icon.