If you’re a George Strait fan, you surely love Pure Country. But perhaps you’ve seen the film and you’re not a huge George Strait fan. If that’s the case, here are some fun facts you may not know.
5 Fun Facts About Pure Country
1. George Strait’s Son Bubba Makes An Appearance
The opening track “Heartland” features an extra special vocal cameo. That child’s voice that kicks things off is non other than George’s then 10-year-old son, George “Bubba” Strait Jr.
2. Strait’s Real Life Band Is Featured In The Film
The Ace in the Hole Band appears as Dusty’s band in the film. With the exception of John Doe as Earl, all the band members are real. In the scene after Buddy lip-syncs on stage and they argue with Lula (Lesley Ann Warren), three band members prominently have lines, including “Buddy Jackson?” and “Are you out of your mind?”
And speaking of Buddy Jackson, that’s Dripping Springs’ own Kyle Chandler, AKA Coach Taylor.
3. The Movie Soundtrack Was A Huge Hit
The album for the film became George’s highest-selling record ever, certified 6x platinum and featuring number-one hits like “I Cross My Heart” and “Heartland.”
4. All Swearing In The Script Was Cut
A devout Christian, George objected to profanity in the script. He successfully had some mild language and taking the Lord’s name in vain removed from the dialogue.
5. There’s No Final Kiss Scene
People often claim that Strait refused to kiss in the film out of respect and devotion to his wife, Norma. Though multiple reports claim that’s just not true. He did not kiss co-star Isabel Glasser because he felt the scene was unnecessary and uncomfortable. So, the final emotional scene at the end of the movie was rewritten to replace the kiss with a lingering look.
Filming Fun Fact!
Maypearl and Cresson, Texas were both used for filming locations. But the rodeo arena where Harley competes in the barrel racing event is the Cowtown Coliseum, located at the Fort Worth stockyards. It was the site of the very first indoor rodeo in 1918.
