Released in 2006 as the title track for Strait’s 24th studio album, it marked a specific moment in country music history. Here we were, well into the new millennium, and Strait was still delivering that classic, smooth, Texas sound that made him a legend.
Background
But “It Just Comes Natural” is more than just a nostalgic throwback. It’s a masterclass in effortless country songwriting and performance. Strait, often referred to as the “King of Country”, wasn’t known for flashy theatrics or complex arrangements. His strength was always in his clear, unpretentious voice and his ability to deliver a song with an authenticity that resonated with millions. “It Just Comes Natural” perfectly encapsulates that quality.
The song itself is a mid-tempo ballad, a gentle sway with a timeless melody. The lyrics, penned by Marv Green and Jim Collins, are deceptively simple. They paint a picture of the natural world – the sun shining, the rain falling, the seasons changing. These everyday occurrences are then used as a metaphor for love, a love that, like the natural world, unfolds effortlessly and feels almost preordained.
“Sun shines, clouds rain. Train whistles blow and guitars play. Preachers preach, farmers plow.” These opening lines establish a sense of calm certainty. The world functions in a specific way, and love, the song suggests, is just another part of that natural order.
But “It Just Comes Natural” isn’t afraid to explore the complexities of love either. The second half of the song shifts focus to a specific romantic relationship. The narrator assures his love interest that their connection is as natural as the sunrise – “Love you, baby, comes natural, like the dew on the rose”. This sweetness is contrasted with the subtle ache in Strait’s voice, hinting at the challenges that inevitably come with any long-term relationship.
The beauty of “It Just Comes Natural” lies in its ability to capture these contrasting emotions. It’s a song that celebrates the simple joys of love while acknowledging the work it takes to maintain it. It’s a reminder that even the most natural things require care and attention to truly flourish.
In the context of Strait’s career, “It Just Comes Natural” also served as a marker of his enduring influence. Here was an artist nearing the end of his fourth decade in the industry, still putting out music that resonated with fans old and new. The song reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, becoming Strait’s 41st chart-topping hit and solidifying his position as one of country music’s all-time greats.
So, when you hit play on “It Just Comes Natural”, you’re not just listening to a song. You’re experiencing a piece of country music history, a testament to the enduring power of Strait’s voice and the timeless nature of great songwriting. It’s a song that reminds us that love, like the natural world, can be both beautiful and unpredictable, and that sometimes, the best things in life really do come naturally.
Harley