Rejected by Bette Midler, Demoed as an R&B Hit for Boyz II Men, Nearly Forgotten—Until George Strait Turned ‘I Cross My Heart’ Into the Timeless No. 1 Ballad That Became One of the Greatest Love Songs Ever Written and Still Steals Hearts 30+ Years Later

Although considered the King of Country Music, in 1992, George Strait sought to extend his stardom by acting in the Western film Pure Country. For fans of Strait, they definitely remember the soundtrack of the same name. But at the time of the film’s release, it was Strait’s acting debut. And while he received positive feedback for his acting skills, it was his voice behind the ballad “I Cross My Heart” that truly stole the spotlight. And now, more than three decades later, the song remains a defining moment for Strait. But there was a time, it wasn’t even his song.

Given his talent and stardom, it should come as no surprise that when “I Cross My Heart” hit the airwaves, it completely dominated the charts. Peaking at No. 1 on the Canada Country Tracks and the US Hot Country Songs charts, the country singer watched the classic embrace a new era when selling nearly one million digital downloads.

Having performed the song countless times, fans continue to praise the song for its timeless message and Strait’s effortless delivery. From concert arenas to wedding receptions, “I Cross My Heart” has remained one of the most requested and cherished songs in his catalog.

The Wild Ride That Landed “I Cross My Heart” In George Strait’s Lap

But before it became synonymous with Strait, the ballad was first pitched to other artists. Written by Steve Dorff and Eric Kaz, the song had been searching for the right voice. The writers offered the song to Bette Midler as a piano version. Although she recorded the lyrics, it was ultimately cut.

Moving forward, Dorff and Kaz turned their attention to an R&B version of “I Cross My Heart” for Boyz II Men. Dorff said, “When Kaz and I finished the song, I thought it was a Boyz II Men kind of song. We demoed it that way. Done in this very cool, R&B, vibey, Boyz II Men thing. Played it for a bunch of people and (they said), ‘Not one of your best, Steve.’”

With a rejection from Midler and Boyz II Men, the writers wondered about the song’s future. That was until director Chris Caine needed a song for the film Pure Country.

Loving what they produced, Strait jumped into the studio. Even with Dorff somewhat hesitant, he admitted, “You don’t lead a movie with a ballad that doesn’t sound anything like George Strait, but they did. And it was a monster.”

Rejected and nearly forgotten, “I Cross My Heart” found new life the moment Strait recorded it. More than three decades later, the song remains woven into his legacy, proving that the right voice can turn a maybe into a monster hit.