“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Music has a way of connecting to the deepest parts of the human experience, and few songs do this better than Brooks & Dunn’s “Believe.” The song’s heartfelt lyrics and emotive melody create a sense of nostalgia and reflection, reminiscent of those quiet moments when life’s biggest questions arise. Like a modern hymn, it touches on themes of faith, loss, and hope—inviting listeners to pause and consider what truly matters.
About The Composition
- Title: Believe
- Composer: Ronnie Dunn, Craig Wiseman
- Premiere Date: Released in 2005
- Album/Opus/Collection: Hillbilly Deluxe
- Genre: Country Gospel
Background
“Believe” was co-written by Ronnie Dunn of Brooks & Dunn and songwriter Craig Wiseman. The inspiration behind the song was deeply personal, drawing from stories of faith, loss, and resilience. The song tells the story of a young man’s conversations with an older man who, despite facing immense hardships, maintains an unwavering faith in the afterlife. The song is rooted in the traditional storytelling style of country music, emphasizing human connection and emotional depth. Upon its release in 2005 as part of the Hillbilly Deluxe album, “Believe” quickly resonated with listeners, earning critical acclaim and multiple awards, including the CMA Award for Single of the Year and Music Video of the Year. Its reception highlighted the power of a song that addresses universal themes of hope and belief in something greater.
Musical Style
The song is a fusion of country and gospel, featuring a stripped-down arrangement that lets the lyrics take center stage. The instrumentation is simple yet profound, with acoustic guitar, piano, and a subtle string arrangement that underscores the reflective nature of the lyrics. Dunn’s vocal delivery is raw and soulful, capturing the vulnerability and depth of the narrative. The musical structure of “Believe” follows a classic ballad form, with verses that set up a story and a chorus that delivers a powerful emotional release. The song’s pacing is deliberate, allowing each word and note to resonate fully with the listener.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “Believe” weave a narrative of faith and the afterlife through a conversation between the narrator and an old man named Old Man Wrigley. Themes of loss, perseverance, and spiritual belief are central to the story. The old man’s reflections on his life and the certainty that he will reunite with loved ones in the afterlife become a source of solace and contemplation for the narrator. The repeated refrain, “I raise my hands, bow my head, I’m finding more and more truth in the words written in red,” speaks directly to the core of Christian faith, creating a powerful emotional and spiritual connection for listeners.
Performance History
Since its release, “Believe” has become a staple in Brooks & Dunn’s live performances, often serving as a poignant moment in their concerts. The song’s music video, which visualizes the touching story of Old Man Wrigley, further solidified its impact, earning accolades for its storytelling. Notable performances of “Believe” include its rendition at the CMA Awards, where Dunn’s heartfelt delivery moved both the audience and fellow artists. The song’s continued presence in their setlists speaks to its enduring popularity and the strong connection it forges with fans.
Cultural Impact
“Believe” stands as a testament to the power of country music to address deep, universal themes in a relatable way. Beyond its success on the charts, the song has been embraced by church choirs, community gatherings, and memorial services, becoming a source of comfort during times of grief. Its themes of faith and the afterlife have made it a song that resonates far beyond the traditional country music audience, bridging the gap between secular and spiritual music. The song’s crossover appeal highlights its unique place in modern country music, blending narrative depth with a spiritual message that transcends genre boundaries.
Legacy
Nearly two decades after its release, “Believe” remains a cherished part of Brooks & Dunn’s catalog. Its timeless message continues to resonate with new generations of listeners, and its themes of faith and resilience are as relevant today as they were when it first hit the airwaves. For many, it has become a touchstone—a reminder that in the face of life’s greatest challenges, there is comfort to be found in belief. Its legacy is not just in its awards and accolades but in the countless moments of reflection and comfort it has provided to those who hear it.
Conclusion
“Believe” is more than just a song; it’s an experience that invites listeners to reflect on life’s deeper meaning. Its heartfelt lyrics and simple, soulful melody have made it a modern classic in the world of country music. If you haven’t experienced the power of “Believe” yet, take a moment to listen to the original recording or find a live performance where the raw emotion of the song truly comes to life. It’s a musical journey worth taking—one that might just leave you with a little more faith than you started with.
Video
Lyrics
Old man Wrigley lived in that white house
Down the street where I grew up
Momma used to send me over with things
We struck a friendship up
I spent a few long summers out on his old porch swing
Said he was in the war when in the navy
Lost his wife, lost his baby
Broke down and asked him one time
How ya keep from goin’ crazy
He said, “I’ll see my wife and son in just a little while”
I asked him what he meant
He looked at me and smiled, said
I raise my hands, bow my head
I’m findin’ more and more truth in the words written in red
They tell me that there’s more to life, than just what I can see
Oh I believe, hmm
Few years later I was off at college
Talkin’ to mom on the phone one night
Gettin’ all caught up on the gossip
The ins and outs of the small town life
She said, “Oh, by the way son
Old man Wrigley has died”
Later on that night, I laid there thinkin’ back
Thought about a couple long-lost summers
I didn’t know whether to cry or laugh
If there was ever anybody deserved a ticket to the other side
It’d be that sweet old man who looked me in the eye, said
I raise my hands, bow my head
I’m findin’ more and more truth in the words written in red
They tell me that there’s more to life than just what I can see
I can’t quote the book, the chapter or the verse
You can’t tell me it all ends in a slow ride in a hearse
You know I’m more and more convinced, the longer that I live
Yeah, this can’t be, no, this can’t be, no, this can’t be all there is
Lord, I raise my hands, bow my head
Oh, I’m findin’ more and more truth in the words written in red
They tell me that there’s more to this
Than just what I can see (just what I can see)
I believe
Oh, I, I believe
I believe
hmm
(I believe) I believe
(I believe) I believe (I believe)
(I believe) oh, I believe
(I believe, )
(I believe)
(I believe)