Released: 1995
George Strait’s ‘Check Yes Or No’ is a heartwarming tale of childhood love that blossoms into a lifelong relationship. It’s a story of innocence, growth, and enduring love, told through the lens of a simple note passed in third grade.
The song starts with a nostalgic trip back to third grade, where George sits next to Emmylou Hayes, a girl in a pink dress with a matching bow. The playful nature of their young love is captured in scenes of school bus kisses and playground chases. The phrase ‘monkey bars’ and ‘merry-go-round’ are references to common playground equipment, painting a vivid picture of their childhood.
The pivotal moment comes when Emmylou passes George a note, a classic schoolyard way of expressing affection. The note asks, ‘Do you love me, do you wanna be my friend?’ and offers him a choice to check ‘yes’ or ‘no’. This simple act sets the stage for their lifelong romance.
As the song progresses, we see that their love story has stood the test of time. The phrase ‘two kids with stars in our eyes’ symbolizes their continued innocence and wonder in their love for each other. George still ‘chases’ Emmylou, a metaphor for his ongoing pursuit of her love and affection.
The song concludes with a repetition of the chorus, reinforcing the central theme of the song – that love can be as simple and pure as a check ‘yes’ or ‘no’ on a note. It’s a testament to the enduring power of love, and a reminder that sometimes, the most profound emotions can be expressed in the simplest ways.
