On October 9, some of country music’s biggest names gathered in Alabama for a night dedicated to legendary songwriter Dean Dillon. The Songs and Stories of Dean Dillon tribute show featured an all-star lineup, including Ronnie Dunn, Riley Green, Jamey Johnson, George Strait, and Cody Johnson — who delivered one of the evening’s most moving performances.

The event, filmed for a future TV special, celebrated Dillon’s incredible contributions to country music. Over the years, he’s written more than 60 songs for George Strait alone, including classics like “Ocean Front Property,” “Unwound,” and “Marina del Rey.” Beyond Strait, Dillon’s pen gave the world unforgettable hits such as “Tennessee Whiskey,” “Spilled Perfume,” and “Miami, My Amy.” It’s no surprise he’s a member of both the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame (2002) and the Country Music Hall of Fame (2020).

One song that stands out in Dillon’s catalog is “The Chair,” co-written with Hank Cochran. The story behind it is almost as legendary as the tune itself. While on a Caribbean trip celebrating earlier successes, the two friends stayed up late one night with guitars in hand. After some laughs (and a few drinks), inspiration struck. Within 45 minutes, “The Chair” was born — complete with its quirky, offbeat opening line: “Well, excuse me, but I think you’ve got my chair.” When George Strait released it in 1985, the song quickly climbed to #1 in both the U.S. and Canada, cementing its place as a country classic.

At the tribute show, Cody Johnson had the honor of performing “The Chair.” With his signature warmth and respect for tradition, he delivered a heartfelt version that brought the audience to their feet. As the final notes faded, Johnson tapped his chest in a quiet gesture of thanks to Dillon — a small but powerful acknowledgment of the songwriter’s lasting influence.

For fans, it was more than just a performance; it was a reminder of how Dillon’s music continues to shape country storytelling. And while we’ll have to wait for the TV special to relive the night, Johnson’s touching tribute proved once again why songs like “The Chair” never fade — and why Dean Dillon’s legacy will live on for generations.