George Strait's First Rodeo Concert, 1983

February 27, 1983: Houston, Texas. The sixth day of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo was getting underway when rodeo officials got some bad news. Eddie Rabbitt, who was to play the day's concert at the Astrodome had fallen ill and would not be able to perform. With ten hours until showtime, the officials scrambled to find a replacement. They were having no success.

Until one official remembered a young cowboy who was tearing up the bar scene in San Marcos, a town halfway between San Antonio and Austin. His name was George Strait. George was contacted and agreed to play the concert in Houston. He and his Ace in the Hole Band arrived at the Astrodome one hour before showtime, with no time for rehearsal or a soundcheck.

Initially, George was booed by the audience, as they were expecting to see Eddie Rabbitt, but as George delved further into his setlist, many began to bond with the young singer.

@Mim1986