Introduction:
Released in October 2005, “Believe” by the iconic country music duo Brooks & Dunn is more than just a song; it’s a contemplative journey that explores questions of faith, life’s purpose, and the hereafter. Written by Ronnie Dunn himself alongside Craig Wiseman, “Believe” quickly became a chart-topping hit, solidifying Brooks & Dunn’s position as country music royalty.
The song’s production, overseen by the legendary Paul Worley, perfectly complements the introspective lyrics. A gentle acoustic guitar sets the stage, soon joined by warm piano chords and subtle percussion that build subtly throughout the song. Brooks & Dunn’s signature harmonies weave seamlessly, adding a layer of emotional resonance to the lyrics.
“Believe” wasn’t just a critical darling; it resonated deeply with audiences. The song spent a staggering five weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, solidifying its place as a modern country classic. Its impact transcended airplay, earning Song of the Year, Single of the Year, and Music Video of the Year honors at the 2006 Country Music Association Awards. This critical and commercial success cemented “Believe” as a cornerstone of Brooks & Dunn’s illustrious career.
But “Believe”‘s legacy extends beyond awards and chart success. The song’s central theme – the search for meaning and a greater purpose – is a universal human experience. The lyrics explore the protagonist’s growing belief in something beyond the physical world, sparked by an encounter with a wise old man. Lines like “There was ever anybody deserved to take it to the other side/It’d be that sweet old man who looked me in the eye” and “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” capture this yearning for a deeper understanding of life’s mysteries.
“Believe” doesn’t offer definitive answers; instead, it encourages introspection and a personal exploration of faith. This ambiguity allows the song to resonate with listeners from diverse backgrounds and belief systems. Whether it sparks a moment of quiet reflection or ignites a fervent discussion, “Believe” continues to move audiences with its timeless themes and poignant delivery.
Video:
Lyrics:
“Believe”
(originally by Brooks & Dunn)Old man Wrigley lived in that white house
Down the street where I grew up
My 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
Says he was in the war in the navy
Lost his wife, lost his baby
I broke down and I asked him one time
How ya keep from going crazy
He said: “I’ll see my son and wife in just a little while”
I asked him what he meant
He looked at me and smiled, and saidI raise my hands, bow my head
I’m finding 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 believeA few years later, I was off to college
Talkin’ to mama on the phone one night
Getting all caught up in the gossip of the small-town life
She said, oh, by the way child, old man Wrigley’s died
Later on that night, I laid there thinkin’ back
Thought ’bout a couple of long-lost summers
I didn’t know whether to cry or laugh
If there was ever anybody who deserved a ticket to the other side
It’d be that sweet old man who looked me in the eye, saidI raise my hands, bow my head
I’m finding 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, ohI can’t quote the book
The chapter or the verse, but
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 isWhen I raise my hands, bow my head
I’m finding 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 believeOh I, oh I, oh I, oh I
Oh I still believe
Do you believe?
Because I believe
I believe, I believe
I believe, I believe
I still believe