Singing in church at a young age has been a great way for some country vocalists to get experience, hone their craft, and adjust to performing for an audience. It also allows them to express their feelings about their faith via music. Sometimes, country singers continue to select material with a religious foundation well into their adult careers. We take a look at a few of those artists for whom faith-based songs are a key part of their professional repertoires and personal lives.
Videos by Wide Open Country
Carrie Underwood
Last year, Carrie Underwood delighted people at Rolling Hills Church in Franklin, Tennessee, with a stirring performance of "Goodness of God' that they never anticipated. Per nbc.com, "The church and Underwood go hand in hand, and her faith has been a significant part of the star's life ever since Underwood was a child."
Per the outlet via Taste Of Country, "Gospel music shaped me as an artist because those were the first things I sang and it was just a great foundation. We had our little church; my first one probably would have been very tiny, wooden pews, and that was the first time I probably sang as well, was in church."
Underwood's hits include songs that incorporate her faith, such as "Jesus, Take the Wheel," "See You Again," and "Something in the Water."
Faith Hill
Few contemporary singers have the grace power, and elegance of Faith Hill. When she performs sings like 'There You Are" or "Breathe," audiences are dazzled. She started her singing journey in church. Per Magnolia Tribune, "Faith's beautiful singing voice was recognized early on. She was first exposed to singing at Star Baptist Church." In addition, "As a teenager, Faith was a member of the Steele Family Gospel quartet." Songs like "Come to Jesus" show that Hill hasn't left her religious roots behind.
Brad Paisley
Paisley's heartfelt religious faith has played a key role in his career from his youth to this day. According to Movie Guide, "Paisley regularly played at church events and in nursing homes to inspire residents." His mother, Sandy, said, "I don't know what it was about Brad, but I felt he had a purpose. There was a reason he was given this talent." She added, "Every night when I put Brad to bed, I would say, 'Let's pray, please make this world a better place in any way you can." He has surely done that again and again with the singing gift he has exquisitely displayed in songs such as "My Miracle" and "Me and Jesus."
Josh Turner
"For most of my life, I've been a Christian. I've always wanted to sing country music, and I've been able to incorporate my faith into it," Josh Turner shared per Movie Guide. According to Medium, "He got his start the way many country singers do; singing in church choirs. He even started his own gospel quartet." Turner's songs with a religious bent include "Me and God," "I Serve A Savior," and "I Saw The Light."
