Introduction
Wrapped in Love: The Journey of a Country Hit
“Wrapped,” a song synonymous with George Strait’s smooth vocals and relatable lyrics, has a history that stretches beyond the King of Country himself. Here’s a glimpse into the path this song took before landing on Strait’s 2006 album, “It Just Comes Natural.”
The story begins with songwriter Bruce Robison. In 1998, the heartache ballad “Wrapped” became the title track of his album. It captured the intense emotions of being hopelessly devoted to someone, even after a potential break-up. The song resonated not just with Robison, but also with his wife, Kelly Willis. She included her own rendition on her 1998 album, “What I Deserve.”
While both Robison’s and Willis’s versions held their own charm, “Wrapped” was destined for a wider audience. Enter George Strait. Known for his ability to deliver heartfelt country anthems, Strait had already covered another of Robison’s songs, “Desperately,” on his 2003 album “Honkytonkville.” Recognizing the potential in “Wrapped,” Strait included it on “It Just Comes Natural.”
Released in 2006, Strait’s version of “Wrapped” became a chart-topping success. It reached number one on the Mediabase 24/7 country music charts, solidifying its place as a modern classic. Strait’s masterful delivery breathed new life into the song, making it a fan favorite and adding another number one to his already impressive collection (his 55th overall).
So, the next time you hear the opening chords of “Wrapped,” remember the journey it took – from a songwriter’s pen, to fellow musicians’ interpretations, and finally, to the unmistakable voice of George Strait. It’s a testament to the enduring power of country music to capture the complexities of love and loss, wrapped up in a relatable melody.