Nothing like some Gospel music to carry you through the day.
Country music and faith are closely intertwined, with many country stars often integrating their faith into their music. The Red Clay Strays are a prime example of this, as they feel like the music they make is the word of God flowing through them, and spoke on their recent Joe Rogan Experience podcast that because they see their fame as God lifting them to this platform, they will never break up.
“I think you’ve got to have your mindset correct. For us, it’s a God thing. If you are just chasing worldly things, and worried about ‘me’ and how I’m getting done wrong or how he’s getting on my nerves, and that’s what dictates your decisions… I could see (that). You are gonna walk away from that. Because people suck and people are always going to fail you at the end of the day.
But when you turn it into a ‘I’m not doing this for me, I’m doing this to fulfill my calling that God’s given me,’ then it becomes a selfless thing. ‘He who is greatest among you, let him be your servant’ is what always pops in my head. If I want to make this thing work, how can I serve these guys?”
The Red Clay Strays do a stellar job of crafting messages of faith through modern words and melodies that are relatable to younger listeners; however, a traditional gospel song has a timeless beauty. Whether it’s a simple song that everyone knows, like “Amazing Grace” or “O Come, All Ye Faithful,” there is something simple and beautiful about singing words that you know generations of folks have sung in church or in their homes during personal times of worship.
Recently, I’ve been reminded how stunning the tune “Sweet Beulah Land” is.
Earlier this year, Marty Raybon laid down a stunning cover of Squire Parsons’ “Sweet Beulah Land” at a recent show, and it took the crowd to church. The performance took place shortly after Charlie Kirk’s death, and Raybon dedicated the tune to him and his family, making for a beautiful tribute.
Marty Raybon released a cover of the traditional hymn, titled “Beulah Land,” on his 2012 solo project Southern Roots and Branches (Yesterday and Today). The beautiful acoustic tune not only showcases his showstopping voice but also packs a punch with its lyrics. The song draws from Isaiah 62:4, which speaks of God’s people no longer being forsaken but instead being led to Beulah—the sacred land symbolizing the covenant and union between the Lord and His people.
“I’m kind of homesick for a country
To where I’ve never been before
No sad goodbyes will there be spoken
For time won’t matter anymore
Beulah Land, I’m longing for you
And some day on thee I’ll stand
And there my home shall be eternal
Beulah Land, Sweet Beulah Land…”
This was truly a beautiful performance, and it’s incredible to see so many artists lean into their songs of faith as they process their emotions surrounding the events of our nation. Hearing the audience sing along with him leaves you with chills.
@alice.n.jonathan When Shenandoah takes you to church! #charliekirk #fyp ♬ original sound – Alice N Jonathan Dodds
Of course, Marty’s vocals are ones we all know and love and is the voice behind some of the ’90s country anthems. However, an Arkansas man is giving Raybon’s version a run for his money after going viral for singing “Sweet Beulah Land” in Walmart. A woman shopping captured the moment a blind elderly gentleman sat at the pharmacy, singing while he waited for his medication.
“Walking through Walmart with my boys, and this blind gentleman started singing right as we walked up. I could’ve listened to him all day!”
The man is very unbothered as he powerfully delivers the lyrics of the classic tune. His southern drawl as he sings is so pure and clear that you can’t help but watch the video multiple times. This man is a faithful servant of the Lord and is bringing light into the chaotic world we live in today.
Nothing heals the soul like some Southern gospel music.
Check it out.
@teslafason Walking through Walmart with my boys, and this blind gentleman started singing right as we walked up. I could’ve listened to him all day! #sweetbeulahland #walmart #arkansas #gospelmusic ♬ original sound – Tesla Fason
It did not take long for the comments section to flood with kind words.
Check out a few of my favorites:
“Angels come in many forms to make us pause, and remember… blessed be.”
“That man is an angel in disguise.”
“I would have bawled.”
“I would’ve sat down on the bench beside him and enjoyed the moment.”
“We have people screaming and cussing and acting out …. This is beautiful! Bless this sweet soul Lord.”
“I would have sat with him and held his hand.”
“That man has stories we could all learn from. The pain and joy he’s felt and not left God aside. A old saying is when an old timer sings that song their time to go is near. Lord bless that man. Last of the greatest generation to live. And that old Appalachian sound.”
“Best thing that has happened in a Walmart in a long time.”
“Thank you God for this today. He wasn’t seeking fame or more followers. He was simply being obedient.”
“Just that voice takes me back to a better time!!”
“My grandpa did this all the time, just singing God’s love for all.”
“This hit me deep in my heart.”
“Thank you, sir! This made my day.”
“Oh my heart!! What a true angel!”
And before you go, fire up Marty Raybon’s version of “Beulah Land.”
