Miranda Lambert and Blake Shelton Pay Powerful Tribute to George Strait at ACM Artist of the Decade Concert
At the 2009 ACM Artist of the Decade All-Star Concert, country music royalty Miranda Lambert and Blake Shelton delivered a heartfelt and unforgettable rendition of George Strait’s timeless hit, “It Ain’t Cool to Be Crazy About You.” The star-studded event, a tribute to Strait’s legendary career, gathered some of the biggest names in country music to honor a man whose songs have shaped the genre for decades.
A Tribute That Struck All the Right Chords
Lambert and Shelton, who were at the time country’s most celebrated couple, brought undeniable chemistry and deep emotional resonance to the stage. Their duet stood out not just because of their vocal prowess, but because of the story they told together — one of love, vulnerability, and quiet heartbreak — echoing the soul of Strait’s original 1986 classic.
Shelton’s smooth, laid-back delivery paired perfectly with Lambert’s raw intensity, creating a version that felt both nostalgic and refreshingly authentic. Their performance captured the melancholic essence of the song — a lament about loving someone who’s moved on — while also injecting their own charisma and chemistry into every line.
A Moment of Reverence and Respect
Their appearance wasn’t just another performance — it was a deeply personal nod to George Strait’s enduring legacy. Both artists have often cited Strait as a major influence, and that reverence was palpable in their delivery. As they sang, it was clear they weren’t just entertaining — they were paying homage.
The entire night was filled with moving moments from some of the biggest names in the business, but Lambert and Shelton’s duet stood among the most memorable, reminding fans why Strait’s songs continue to resonate, and why Lambert and Shelton were once considered a powerhouse duo — both on and off the stage.