With over 120 million albums sold and the title of “King of Country Music,” George Strait has crossed nearly every milestone in the music world. Known for classics like “Amarillo by Morning,” Strait’s remarkable career was celebrated at the Kennedy Center Honors, where he stood alongside cultural icons such as Sylvester Stallone, Michael Crawford, Gloria Gaynor, and KISS.
As part of the evening’s tribute, Miranda Lambert took the stage to perform Strait’s 2001 hit “Run,” honoring not just a country legend, but also a longtime friend. The song, featured on his album The Road Less Traveled, climbed to No. 2 on the U.S. Hot Country Songs chart and has remained a fan favorite ever since.
@cbs #SZA and #CyndiLauper True Colors duet? Yes please, times a million 💞. Catch this iconic pairing on A GRAMMY Salute to Cyndi Lauper: Live from the Hollywood Bowl TOMORROW at 8/7c.
Over the years, the Kennedy Center Honors have recognized stars who have become icons in their fields, including Dolly Parton, Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, George Jones, Merle Haggard, and Loretta Lynn. With Strait’s name joining such a timeless list, the night was a testament to his enduring impact on country music.
Dressed in all black, Lambert delivered a performance that captured the heart of Strait’s music. Though he wasn’t on stage with her, she carried the spirit of their past collaborations. Lambert and Strait previously recorded a live version of “Run” and performed it together at the 54th Academy of Country Music Awards in 2019, adding depth to her tribute at the Kennedy Center.
Fans quickly took to social media to praise the performance. Comments included, “The perfect person to sing to the King,” and “That’s why she’s the country queen. She is amazing. True country to the core. That’s my girl.” One fan even wrote, “America needs a Miranda Lambert Super Bowl halftime show.”
The full Kennedy Center Honors special will air tonight on CBS at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT and will also be available to stream on Paramount+, giving viewers the chance to experience more of Strait’s celebrated legacy.