Dolly Parton was asked what were the important values in her family's home during her youth. She replied, "God, music, and food," per Wide Open Country via allrecipes.com and foxnews.com. Faith has a vital role in so many country singers' and songwriters' lives. It can be found in countless country songs in ways both subtle and obvious. The belief that we are guided by a higher power is comforting. In times of hardship and crisis, that certainty can pull us back from despair. Thus there is such a massive array of gospel-based tracks that reference God and His ability to heal and provide gentle consolation. Here are just a few examples.
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"See You Again" by Carrie Underwood
Bereavement is one of the hardest things anyone can face. Knowing that you will never again be with a loved one on Earth can feel intolerable. This glorious song from Underwood takes the view that we will all be together once more someday; our parting in this mortal life is only temporary. That sentiment is powerfully uplifting. She sings with a wisdom far beyond her years.
Per Taste of Country, Underwood said, "Of course, it's very sad to lose someone on Earth. But having that faith that you're going to see them again is such an amazing thing, such a comforting thing, such a happy thing." She added, "I don't like too many sad songs on an album, but this one takes a sad subject and puts this faith-filled, positive spin on it."
"I Saw God Today" by George Strait
The beloved King of Country keeps the flame burning bright for traditional country songs. In this one, from his 2008 album, Troubadour, Strait sings about how God emerges in daily life. The narrator notices small signs of optimism - an affectionate young couple, a blossom sprouting up through the sidewalk, the gorgeous sunset, a newborn child. And he knows that those are all emblems of God's loving, constant presence. When you hear Strait sing this, you just have to believe.
"Peace in the Valley" by Elvis Presley
Many of us think of Elvis as the greatest ambassador of rock ever, but he also loved gospel music. Written by Thomas A. Dorsey, this song's serene images of animals sharing the same pasture reflect the wish he has for humans to also co-exist in harmony. Elvis's velvet-voiced, masterful rendition on The Ed Sullivan Show when he was a very young man speaks for itself. He was simply sensational. A megastar in the making.
"Monday Morning Church" by Alan Jackson
Mournful and melancholy, the narrator sings that his heart is as empty as a Monday morning church after the passing of his dear wife. His faith badly shaken, a preacher reassures him that Jesus loves him. Skeptical, he doubts it and tries to carry on without the anchor of his life. Alan Jackson interprets the song with just the right degree of emotion and restraint. It's on his album What I Do.
