The Weight of the Badge
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| "The Weight of the Badge" | ||||
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| Single by George Strait | ||||
| from the album Honky Tonk Time Machine | ||||
| Released | September 30, 2019 | |||
| Recorded | 2018 | |||
| Genre | Neotraditional country | |||
| Length | 3:46 | |||
| Label | MCA Nashville | |||
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| George Strait singles chronology | ||||
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| Music video | ||||
| "The Weight of the Badge" on YouTube | ||||
"The Weight of the Badge" is a song by American country music singer George Strait. It was released on September 30, 2019, as the second single from his thirtieth studio album Honky Tonk Time Machine. Strait co-wrote the song with Dean Dillon and Strait's son, Bubba.
"The Weight of the Badge" was co-written by George Strait, Bubba Strait, and Dean Dillon.[1][2]
The song was released on September 30, 2019, as Honky Tonk Time Machine's second single after "Every Little Honky Tonk Bar."[3]
Strait stated that the video and song were a tribute to "our friends and neighbors who carry the weight of the badge each day."[4] He added, "We appreciate you and the sacrifices you and your families make."[5]
Music video
The official music video was released on October 28, 2021, coinciding with First Responders Day.[4][5] The video opens with footage of police officers raising the American flag at the New York State Police Academy. A voiceover reflects on the sacrifices made by officers.[5][6] Throughout the video, viewers see interviews with first responders and their family members, who speak about the gravity of the job and how it affects their personal lives.[6][5]
At the conclusion of the video, a first responder gifts Strait a miniature replica of his badge and one of his original collar honors in gratitude for the tribute.[5] The video premiered at the First Responders Children's Foundation 20th Anniversary Gala in New York City.[5] Additionally, Strait launched a website to encourage people to share their own stories and appreciation for first responders.[5]