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Introduction:

“How Beautiful Heaven Must Be,” performed by country music legend George Jones, is a touching gospel song that reflects themes of faith, hope, and the promise of a peaceful afterlife. The song originated from the hymn written in the 19th century by Mrs. A.S. Bridgewater, whose lyrics envision heaven as a place of eternal rest and joy, free from sorrow and pain. This hymn gained popularity in Christian circles and was eventually embraced by many gospel and country artists over the years.

George Jones included his rendition of the song in his 1965 album Homecoming in Heaven, a collection dedicated to gospel music. His soulful performance highlights the emotional depth and conviction that made him a beloved figure in both secular and spiritual music. The album reflects Jones’s deep connection to gospel music, a bond instilled in him by his devout Christian mother, who played piano in their church. This early exposure to spiritual music significantly influenced Jones’s musical journey.

The song remains a classic, often revisited for its comforting message and serene imagery of heaven. Jones’s heartfelt interpretation has solidified it as a staple in country gospel music, celebrated for its sincerity and timeless appeal​.

Video:

Lyrics:

“How Beautiful Heaven Must Be”

We read of a place that’s called heaven,
It’s made for the pure and the free;
These truths in God’s word He has given,
How beautiful heaven must be.How beautiful heaven must be
Sweet home of the happy and free;
Fair haven of rest for the weary,
How beautiful heaven must be.

In heaven no drooping nor pining,
No wishing for elsewhere to be;
God’s light is forever, there shining,
How beautiful heaven must be.

How beautiful heaven must be
Sweet home of the happy and free;
Fair haven of rest for the weary,
How beautiful heaven must be.

The angels so sweetly are singing,
Up there by the beautiful sea;
Sweet chords from their gold harps are ringing,
How beautiful heaven must be.

How beautiful heaven must be
Sweet home of the happy and free;
Fair haven of rest for the weary,
How beautiful heaven must be…