George Strait – ‘You’ll Be There’ (tribute to his late daughter)

“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”

Introduction

George Strait’s song “You’ll Be There” stands as a poignant tribute to his late daughter, Jennifer. Known for his deep emotional resonance and storytelling prowess, Strait encapsulates the profound sense of loss and hope in this heartfelt piece. The song resonates with many who have experienced personal loss, offering solace and a reminder of the enduring connection with loved ones beyond physical presence.

About The Composition

Title: ‘You’ll Be There’ (tribute to his late daughter)
Composer: Cory Mayo
Premiere Date: 2005
Album/Opus/Collection: Somewhere Down in Texas
Genre: Country

Background

“You’ll Be There” was released as part of George Strait’s album “Somewhere Down in Texas” in 2005. The song is deeply personal to Strait, written in the wake of the tragic loss of his daughter in a car accident in 1986. The emotional weight and personal significance of the song were immediately apparent to listeners, contributing to its impact and reception. It was well-received upon release, praised for its heartfelt and authentic expression of grief and hope.

Musical Style

The musical style of “You’ll Be There” stays true to George Strait’s country roots, featuring a blend of traditional country instrumentation and contemporary elements. The song’s arrangement is understated, allowing the emotive vocal delivery and poignant lyrics to take center stage. The gentle strumming of guitars and subtle orchestration create a reflective atmosphere that complements the song’s themes.

Lyrics/Libretto

The lyrics of “You’ll Be There” explore themes of loss, faith, and eternal connection. Strait sings of a hopeful reunion in the afterlife, where he will once again be united with his loved ones. The song’s comforting message and tender articulation of enduring bonds resonate deeply with listeners who have experienced similar losses.

Performance History

“You’ll Be There” has been a staple in George Strait’s live performances since its release, often evoking emotional responses from audiences. The song’s powerful message and personal significance to Strait make it a standout moment in his concerts, highlighting his ability to connect with fans on a deeply personal level.

Cultural Impact

The cultural impact of “You’ll Be There” extends beyond its initial reception, as it continues to be a source of comfort for those dealing with loss. Its themes have found resonance in various media, including television and film, where it has been used to underscore moments of poignancy and reflection.

Legacy

Today, “You’ll Be There” remains a significant part of George Strait’s musical legacy, celebrated for its heartfelt expression and universal themes. It stands as a testament to Strait’s ability to channel personal experiences into music that touches the lives of many.

Conclusion

“You’ll Be There” is a moving tribute that showcases George Strait’s storytelling prowess and emotional depth. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to provide comfort and hope. For those unfamiliar with this touching piece, I encourage you to explore it further and experience the profound connection it offers.

Video

Lyrics

Hope is an anchor and love is a ship, time is the ocean and life is a trip

You don’t know where you’re going, ’till you know where you’re at

And if you can’t read the stars, well you better have a map

A compass and a conscience, so you don’t get lost at sea

Or on some lonely island, where no one wants to be

From the beginning of creation, I think our maker had a plan

For us to leave these shores and sail beyond the sand

And let the good light guide us through the waves and the wind

To the beaches in a world where we have never been

And we’ll climb up on a mountain, y’all we’ll let our voices ring

Those who’ve never tried it, they’ll be the first to sing

Whoa, my, my

I’ll see you on the other side

If I make it

And it might be a long hard ride

But I’m gonna take it

Sometimes it seems that I don’t have a prayer

Let the weather take me anywhere

But I know that I wanna go

Where the streets are gold

‘Cause you’ll be there

Oh, my , my

You don’t bring nothing with you here

And you can’t take nothing back

I ain’t never seen a hearse, with a luggage rack

So I’ve torn my knees up prayin’

Scarred my back from fallin’ down

Spent so much time flying high, till I’m face first in the ground

So if you’re up there watchin’ me, would you talk to God and say,

Tell him I might need a hand to see you both someday