A brief handshake between a romantic crooner and a Southern cowboy – but enough to bridge two golden worlds of music.
In 2001, behind the curtains of a charity concert in Dallas, two legends quietly met. Engelbert Humperdinck, the velvet-voiced crooner from England who had conquered hearts worldwide. And George Strait, the King of Country, a symbol of Southern pride and musical integrity.
One Handshake – Two Legacies
There were no cameras, no press—just genuine respect. George, ever the quiet gentleman, initiated the greeting. Engelbert, warm and graceful, responded with a smile. They didn’t speak much. But in those few moments, they shared memories of life on the road, the loyalty of fans, and the silent burden of staying true in an industry that constantly changes.
“I grew up on your love songs,” George said.
“And I’ve always admired your grit—you’re a real cowboy,” Engelbert replied.
Music Without Borders
Though one came from across the ocean and the other from the heart of Texas, both men embodied something rare: loyalty to tradition. They didn’t need a duet or a joint tour. That simple handshake said it all—real music recognizes real hearts.
They shared a light embrace and parted ways. Not to separate—but to keep carrying their sounds into the world.
🎵 Suggested listening: “There Goes My Everything” by Engelbert Humperdinck & “Amarillo by Morning” by George Strait
Lyrics:
I hear footsteps slowly walking,As they gently walk across a lonely floor,And a voice is softly saying,Darling, this will be good-bye for ever more.There goes my reason for living,There goes the one of my dreams,There goes my only possession,There goes my everything.As my memory turns back the pages,I can see the happy years we had before,Now the love that kept this old heart beating,Has been shattered by the closing of the door.