**Background**
“It Just Comes Natural” is a prominent single by George Strait, released on January 15, 2007, as the lead-off track from his album *Somewhere Down in Texas*. Written by Dean Dillon and Ronnie Bowman, the song quickly became a significant addition to Strait’s extensive discography, further cementing his reputation as the “King of Country.” By the mid-2000s, George Strait had already established himself as one of country music’s most influential and enduring artists, known for his consistent chart-topping hits, sold-out tours, and unwavering commitment to traditional country sounds.
The creation of “It Just Comes Natural” was a collaborative effort between Strait and seasoned songwriters Dean Dillon and Ronnie Bowman. Dean Dillon, a frequent collaborator with Strait, has penned numerous hits that have defined Strait’s career, while Ronnie Bowman brought his own expertise in crafting relatable and emotionally resonant country music. The song was crafted to resonate with Strait’s audience, offering a blend of heartfelt emotion and relatable storytelling that is characteristic of his work. The title itself suggests an effortless and genuine expression of love, setting the tone for the song’s exploration of natural and uncomplicated romantic feelings.
Upon its release, “It Just Comes Natural” received widespread acclaim from both critics and fans. The song’s relatable lyrics, combined with Strait’s smooth and emotive vocal delivery, made it an instant favorite on country radio stations. It swiftly climbed the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, reaching the number one position and maintaining that spot for three consecutive weeks. This achievement added to Strait’s impressive list of chart-topping singles, reinforcing his status as a dominant force in country music. The commercial success of the single was further bolstered by the popularity of the *Somewhere Down in Texas* album, which debuted at number one on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart and achieved multi-platinum status.
The promotional strategy for “It Just Comes Natural” was comprehensive and strategic, involving extensive radio airplay, a captivating music video, and numerous live performances that showcased Strait’s charismatic stage presence. The music video, directed by Trey Fanjoy, featured Strait in a romantic narrative that visually reinforced the song’s themes of natural and effortless love. The video depicted intimate and heartfelt moments, aligning perfectly with the song’s lyrical content and enhancing its emotional impact. Additionally, Strait’s live renditions of “It Just Comes Natural” became a staple of his concerts, where his genuine connection with the audience and his ability to convey the song’s sincere emotion left a lasting impression on fans.
“It Just Comes Natural” also represented a strategic artistic choice for George Strait, as it balanced his traditional country roots with the contemporary sounds that were emerging in the mid-2000s. By integrating modern production techniques with his signature style, Strait ensured that the song appealed to both long-time country enthusiasts and newer, younger audiences. This balance of tradition and modernity was a key factor in the song’s enduring popularity and Strait’s continued relevance in the ever-evolving country music landscape. The song’s success demonstrated Strait’s ability to adapt and evolve while staying true to the authentic sounds that have defined his career.
**Musical Style**
“It Just Comes Natural” exemplifies George Strait’s mastery of traditional country music, seamlessly blending classic instrumentation with contemporary production elements to create a sound that is both timeless and fresh. The song is characterized by its mid-tempo rhythm, catchy melody, and polished production, making it both radio-friendly and highly engaging for live performances. The musical arrangement is thoughtfully crafted, featuring a rich blend of classic country instruments alongside modern elements that enhance the song’s overall appeal.
The instrumentation of “It Just Comes Natural” includes prominent use of acoustic guitars, electric guitars, fiddle, steel guitar, and a steady rhythm section comprising drums and bass. The acoustic guitars provide a warm and inviting foundation, setting the stage for the song’s smooth and steady groove. The electric guitars add a touch of brightness and energy, complementing Strait’s vocal delivery and contributing to the song’s dynamic range. The fiddle introduces melodic complexity, weaving intricate lines that add depth and texture to the arrangement. The steel guitar, with its distinctive twang, underscores the song’s authentic country feel, offering a nostalgic nod to traditional country sounds.
One of the standout features of “It Just Comes Natural” is its use of subtle orchestration, including strings and soft percussion, which add a lush, romantic quality to the music. This orchestration complements Strait’s vocal performance, creating an atmosphere of intimacy and admiration that aligns perfectly with the song’s lyrical themes of natural and effortless love. The production quality is exemplary, with each instrument meticulously balanced to ensure clarity and cohesiveness, allowing the melody and lyrics to take center stage.
George Strait’s vocal performance in “It Just Comes Natural” is both smooth and heartfelt, showcasing his ability to convey deep emotion with precision and nuance. His clear, resonant voice delivers the song’s romantic message with sincerity and grace, making the lyrics feel both personal and universally relatable. Strait’s impeccable phrasing and timing ensure that each line is delivered with emotional weight, allowing listeners to fully immerse themselves in the song’s story. The backing vocals and harmonies are thoughtfully layered, adding depth and richness to the chorus and reinforcing the song’s themes of love and connection.
Musically, the song adheres to a classic verse-chorus-verse structure, providing a familiar framework that enhances its accessibility and replay value. The verses build anticipation with their narrative content, leading into a memorable and sing-along-worthy chorus that reinforces the song’s central theme of natural and effortless love. The bridge introduces a slight variation in melody and rhythm, offering a moment of reflection before returning to the familiar refrain. This structure not only ensures a dynamic flow but also enhances the song’s replay value, making it a favorite among listeners.
The production of “It Just Comes Natural” strikes a perfect balance between polished studio techniques and the raw, organic essence of traditional country music. The instrumentation is clean and well-mixed, ensuring that each element is distinctly audible yet cohesively integrated into the overall arrangement. Subtle reverb and slight echo effects add a spacious quality to the recording, enhancing its sonic appeal and making it suitable for both radio play and live performances.
Harmonies and backing vocals play a significant role in enhancing the song’s texture. Layered harmonies add depth and dimension, creating a lush soundscape that envelops the listener. These harmonies are thoughtfully placed, complementing Strait’s lead vocals and reinforcing the song’s emotional impact. The interplay between the different vocal layers adds a sense of unity and cohesion, elevating the overall musical experience.
Instrumental breaks within “It Just Comes Natural” provide moments of musical brilliance, allowing the musicians to showcase their technical prowess. These interludes add variety to the song, preventing it from becoming monotonous and keeping the listener’s attention piqued. The solos, whether it’s a fiddle flourish or a steel guitar solo, are executed with finesse, adding an extra layer of sophistication to the composition.
In summary, the musical style of “It Just Comes Natural” embodies the essence of George Strait’s traditional country roots while embracing modern elements that appeal to a broad audience. The combination of smooth instrumentation, polished production, and Strait’s charismatic vocal performance results in a song that is both timeless and contemporary. This harmonious blend of classic and modern influences not only contributes to the song’s widespread appeal but also reinforces Strait’s position as a leading figure in country music.
**Lyrics**
The lyrics of “It Just Comes Natural” are a heartfelt and sincere exploration of love that feels effortless and genuine. Written by Dean Dillon and Ronnie Bowman, the song delves into the emotions surrounding a relationship that flows naturally, without force or pretense. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a love that is both simple and profound, capturing the essence of a connection that feels innate and destined.
The song opens with the protagonist expressing the ease and comfort of the relationship, highlighting how being together feels natural and right. Lines such as “Every little thing I do and every little thing you do” emphasize the mutual understanding and effortless harmony between the two individuals. This opening sets the tone for the rest of the song, establishing the theme of an unforced and harmonious love.
As the song progresses, the lyrics delve deeper into the protagonist’s appreciation for the relationship. Phrases like “It just comes natural, it feels so good” convey a sense of fulfillment and contentment, suggesting that the love shared is both rewarding and emotionally satisfying. The repetition of the phrase “it just comes natural” serves as a mantra, reinforcing the idea that their love is organic and without complications.
The chorus is both uplifting and memorable, serving as the emotional centerpiece of the song. “It just comes natural, it feels so good” is a declaration of the protagonist’s unwavering belief in the authenticity of their love. The simplicity and repetition of the chorus make it easy for listeners to sing along, enhancing the song’s appeal and ensuring its message resonates deeply with the audience.
Throughout the song, Strait employs a conversational and sincere tone, making the lyrics feel personal and intimate. The use of simple, yet evocative language ensures that the message is clear and easily understood, allowing listeners from all walks of life to connect with the song’s themes on a personal level. This relatability is a hallmark of Strait’s songwriting, enabling the audience to see themselves in the protagonist’s experience of effortless love.
The verses are rich with descriptive imagery and emotional nuance, capturing the essence of a relationship that feels destined and uncomplicated. Lines such as “Like a summer breeze and the way the river flows” use natural metaphors to illustrate the ease and fluidity of the relationship. These poetic devices add a layer of sophistication to the lyrics, making the song more than just a simple love song but a thoughtful exploration of genuine connection.
The bridge of “It Just Comes Natural” introduces a moment of reflection, where the protagonist contemplates the depth and significance of their love. “With you, it all makes sense, and I never want it to change” conveys a sense of certainty and desire for permanence, highlighting the protagonist’s commitment to maintaining the natural flow of the relationship. This introspective section adds emotional depth to the song, balancing the outward expression of love with an inward examination of its enduring nature.
In terms of lyrical composition, “It Just Comes Natural” excels in its ability to convey a meaningful message through relatable storytelling. The song avoids being overly complex or abstract, instead opting for clear and heartfelt expressions of emotion. This approach ensures that the message is accessible and resonant with a wide audience, allowing listeners to connect with the song’s themes on a personal level.
The song also employs rhythmic and rhyming schemes that enhance its flow and musicality. The consistent rhyme patterns contribute to the song’s catchiness, making it easy for listeners to remember and repeat. Additionally, the rhythmic cadence of the lyrics aligns seamlessly with the song’s mid-tempo beat, creating a harmonious blend of words and music that enhances the overall listening experience.
Moreover, the narrative structure of the lyrics allows for a dynamic progression, with each verse building upon the previous one to develop the story and deepen the emotional resonance. This storytelling approach not only keeps the listener engaged but also adds a layer of complexity to the song, making it more than just a simple declaration of love.
In summary, the lyrics of “It Just Comes Natural” are a testament to George Strait’s exceptional ability to craft meaningful and relatable stories through song. By addressing universal themes of effortless and genuine love with sincerity and poetic expression, the song ensures that its message remains relevant and impactful. The combination of heartfelt emotion, clever wordplay, and authentic expression contributes significantly to the song’s enduring popularity and status as a classic in George Strait’s musical repertoire.
**Cultural Impact**
“It Just Comes Natural” has had a significant and lasting impact on the country music landscape since its release in 2007. The song not only reinforced George Strait’s status as a leading figure in the genre but also influenced the direction of country music in subsequent years. Its success demonstrated the enduring appeal of traditional country themes combined with contemporary storytelling, paving the way for future artists to explore similar creative avenues.
One of the most notable aspects of the song’s cultural impact is its commercial success. “It Just Comes Natural” reached the number one position on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, where it remained for three consecutive weeks. This achievement added to Strait’s impressive list of chart-topping hits, further cementing his reputation as a consistent hitmaker and a beloved figure in country music. The song’s popularity was also reflected in its sales, contributing to the overall success of the *Somewhere Down in Texas* album, which debuted at number one on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart and achieved multi-platinum certification.
The song’s influence extended beyond the charts, garnering critical acclaim for its lyrical depth and musical composition. “It Just Comes Natural” won the Academy of Country Music (ACM) Award for Single of the Year in 2007, recognizing its artistic merit and Strait’s exceptional vocal performance. This accolade not only honored Strait’s contribution to country music but also highlighted the song’s significance within the broader musical landscape.
“It Just Comes Natural” also played a pivotal role in shaping the thematic and lyrical trends within country music during its era. Its blend of optimism, personal reflection, and appreciation for natural and effortless love resonated with listeners, encouraging other artists and songwriters to explore similar themes in their work. The song demonstrated that country music could successfully incorporate messages of genuine and uncomplicated love without sacrificing emotional depth or authenticity, influencing the genre’s narrative direction in subsequent years.
Furthermore, the song’s enduring popularity is reflected in its continued presence in George Strait’s live performances and its frequent inclusion in his greatest hits compilations. “It Just Comes Natural” remains a favorite among fans, often eliciting enthusiastic responses and sing-alongs during concerts. This sustained appeal underscores the song’s timeless quality and its ability to connect with audiences across different generations. Its legacy is further evidenced by its frequent airplay on country radio stations and its consistent performance on streaming platforms, ensuring its place in the country music canon.
In addition to its impact on artists and listeners, “It Just Comes Natural” has made its mark on popular culture through its memorable lyrics and catchy melody. The song’s title and central themes have been referenced in various forms of media, including television shows, films, and commercials, extending its reach beyond traditional country music audiences. This cross-media presence has introduced the song to new listeners, contributing to its sustained relevance and appeal in the broader cultural landscape.
The song has also been embraced by the country music community as an anthem of natural and genuine love. Its message of valuing and appreciating a love that feels effortless resonates deeply with listeners, fostering a sense of unity and shared values within the fanbase. This communal aspect of the song’s impact highlights the role of country music in bringing people together through relatable and meaningful narratives, reinforcing the genre’s connection to real-life experiences and emotions.
Moreover, “It Just Comes Natural” has been utilized in various philanthropic and charitable initiatives, leveraging its positive message to inspire action and generosity. Organizations and community groups have adopted the song as an anthem for fundraising events, volunteer drives, and other charitable activities, aligning its themes with real-world efforts to support those in need. This association with charitable causes amplifies the song’s influence, reinforcing its role as a source of inspiration and motivation for listeners.
The song’s narrative of effortless and genuine love has also sparked discussions about the importance of authenticity and emotional connection in relationships. By embodying these themes, “It Just Comes Natural” encourages listeners to reflect on their own relationships and the value they place on genuine and uncomplicated love. These conversations extend beyond the realm of music, influencing how individuals perceive and engage with their own emotional journeys and romantic connections.
“It Just Comes Natural” has also inspired numerous cover versions and renditions by other artists, showcasing its versatility and enduring appeal. These covers span a range of styles within country music, from traditional renditions that emphasize the song’s roots to more contemporary interpretations that explore new musical territories. The song’s adaptability speaks to its strong foundational composition and its ability to resonate with diverse audiences and artistic sensibilities.
In educational contexts, “It Just Comes Natural” is often cited as an example of effective storytelling and thematic depth in songwriting. Music educators and critics analyze the song’s lyrical structure and melodic composition, using it as a case study for how to craft engaging and meaningful narratives within a musical framework. This academic recognition further cements the song’s status as a significant work within the country music canon.
Furthermore, the song’s influence extends to its role in shaping George Strait’s legacy as an artist who consistently delivers quality music that stands the test of time. “It Just Comes Natural” is frequently referenced in discussions about Strait’s greatest hits and his impact on the genre, highlighting its importance in his musical journey and its contribution to his enduring success.
Additionally, “It Just Comes Natural” has played a role in preserving the cultural significance of honky tonk bars and traditional country venues. By celebrating the natural and effortless aspects of love within a country music context, the song underscores the importance of authentic emotions and genuine connections in the cultural fabric of country communities. This preservation of traditional values has influenced how new generations of country music fans perceive and appreciate the authentic sounds and themes that define the genre.
In summary, “It Just Comes Natural” has had a multifaceted cultural impact, influencing artists, shaping the direction of country music, and resonating deeply with listeners. Its commercial success, critical acclaim, and enduring popularity underscore George Strait’s influential role in the genre and highlight the song’s significance as a classic in country music history. The song’s clever lyrics, memorable melody, and relatable themes have ensured its place in the hearts of fans and its continued relevance in the ever-evolving landscape of country music.
**Conclusion**
“It Just Comes Natural” stands as a quintessential example of George Strait’s unparalleled ability to blend traditional country elements with contemporary themes, creating music that is both timeless and resonant. The song encapsulates the essence of what has made Strait a revered figure in country music—the perfect fusion of heartfelt emotion, clever lyricism, and masterful musical composition. From its engaging and relatable lyrics to its smooth and polished musical arrangement, “It Just Comes Natural” exemplifies the qualities that have defined Strait’s illustrious career.
The song’s background, marked by the collaboration between George Strait and esteemed songwriters Dean Dillon and Ronnie Bowman, set the stage for a narrative that celebrates natural and effortless love with sincerity and poetic expression. This partnership resulted in a track that not only entertained but also conveyed a meaningful message about the beauty and importance of genuine romantic connections. Strait’s sincere and spirited vocal delivery further enhanced the song’s impact, making it a beloved anthem among country music fans.
Musically, “It Just Comes Natural” is a testament to Strait’s commitment to maintaining the authenticity of traditional country sounds while embracing contemporary production techniques. The song’s mid-tempo rhythm, rich instrumentation, and memorable hooks create an engaging and enjoyable listening experience. The seamless integration of instruments such as acoustic guitars, fiddle, steel guitar, and subtle orchestration, combined with a solid rhythm section, showcases Strait’s ability to honor the roots of country music while keeping it fresh and relevant. The polished production ensures that the song meets the high standards expected of a George Strait single, contributing to its widespread appeal and commercial success.
The lyrics of “It Just Comes Natural” demonstrate Strait’s exceptional storytelling prowess, blending heartfelt emotion with relatable narrative to craft a song that is both uplifting and deeply personal. The clever use of metaphor and the song’s conversational tone allow listeners to connect deeply with the protagonist’s experience, fostering a sense of empathy and understanding. This lyrical depth, combined with the song’s catchy melody, ensures that “It Just Comes Natural” remains a memorable and impactful piece within Strait’s discography.
Culturally, “It Just Comes Natural” has left an indelible mark on the country music landscape. Its success reinforced George Strait’s status as a leading figure in the genre and influenced the thematic and lyrical trends of country music in subsequent years. The song’s enduring popularity, evidenced by its continued presence in Strait’s live performances and its frequent airplay on radio and streaming platforms, highlights its timeless quality and its ability to connect with audiences across different generations.
In the broader context of George Strait’s career, “It Just Comes Natural” represents a milestone that highlights his ability to consistently deliver high-quality music that resonates with fans. The song’s success contributed to the ongoing narrative of Strait’s legacy as an artist who bridges the gap between traditional and modern country music, maintaining his relevance and appeal across different generations of listeners. This ability to adapt and evolve while staying true to his musical roots is a key factor in Strait’s enduring success and the continued popularity of his music.
For emerging artists and aspiring country musicians, “It Just Comes Natural” serves as a model of how to craft songs that balance entertainment with meaningful storytelling. The song’s blend of heartfelt emotion, personal reflection, and relatable themes provides a blueprint for creating music that can engage and inspire audiences. Strait’s approach to music—valuing authenticity, emotional depth, and lyrical sophistication—offers valuable lessons in creating music that is both commercially successful and artistically meaningful, inspiring the next generation of country musicians to pursue excellence with integrity.
Ultimately, “It Just Comes Natural” is more than just a successful single; it is a reflection of George Strait’s artistry and his profound connection with his audience. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to evoke genuine emotion, entertain with its clever narrative, and celebrate the joys of natural and effortless love. As such, the song not only enriches Strait’s extensive body of work but also contributes to the rich tapestry of country music, ensuring its place in the hearts of listeners for years to come.
In conclusion, “It Just Comes Natural” encapsulates the spirit of country music—honest, heartfelt, and deeply human. Through its masterful blend of traditional sounds, contemporary storytelling, and George Strait’s exceptional vocal performance, the song stands as a shining example of his enduring legacy and unwavering dedication to the art of country music. It is a song that not only entertains but also uplifts and inspires, embodying the true essence of what makes country music a beloved and enduring genre worldwide.
