Introduction:
“Let It Be Me” is a timeless ballad that has been covered by countless artists across various genres, but the rendition by the beloved country and Christian country duo Joey+Rory holds a special place in the hearts of their fans. Their version of “Let It Be Me” was officially released in 2014 and is featured on their album, Country Classics: A Tapestry of Our Musical Heritage. This album, a collection of cover versions of classic country songs, allowed Joey+Rory to pay homage to the musical traditions that shaped them, while infusing these beloved tunes with their signature heartfelt harmonies and authentic country sound. The song, in Joey+Rory’s hands, firmly belongs to the Country and Christian Country genres, characterized by its sincere vocal delivery, traditional instrumentation, and an underlying sense of enduring devotion. Its achievements are less about chart performance for this specific track and more about its contribution to a critically acclaimed album, and its profound emotional resonance with their audience, particularly in the context of Joey Feek’s later battle with cancer.
- Year Released: 2014
- Album: Country Classics: A Tapestry of Our Musical Heritage
- Genre: Country / Christian Country
The original “Let It Be Me” (titled “Je t’appartiens” in its French version) was written by Gilbert Bécaud (music) and Pierre Delanoë (French lyrics) in 1955. The English lyrics were later penned by Manny Curtis. It gained international fame with The Everly Brothers’ 1960 rendition, which became a top ten hit on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100. Over the decades, it has been interpreted by a diverse array of artists, from Betty Everett and Jerry Butler to Bob Dylan and George Harrison, each bringing their unique stylistic touch to its enduring message of unwavering love and commitment.
Joey+Rory, the husband-and-wife duo of Joey Martin Feek and Rory Lee Feek, rose to prominence after their third-place finish on CMT’s competition “Can You Duet” in 2008. Their music was characterized by their genuine connection, traditional country sound, and the seamless blend of their voices. They quickly signed with Sugar Hill Records and released their debut album, The Life of a Song, the same year. Throughout their career, they released several studio albums, often incorporating elements of bluegrass and Christian themes, reflecting their deep faith and rural lifestyle.
Their 2014 album, Country Classics: A Tapestry of Our Musical Heritage, was a project born out of their love for the foundational songs of country music. Produced by Rory Feek, the album was initially released exclusively through Cracker Barrel stores in May 2014, with a wider release following in October 2014. This collection allowed Joey+Rory to put their unique spin on songs that had influenced them, showcasing their reverence for the genre’s history. Their version of “Let It Be Me” on this album is a testament to their ability to take a classic and imbue it with fresh sincerity, making it feel deeply personal while honoring its timeless melody. The acoustic-driven arrangement and their signature close harmonies bring a warmth and intimacy to the song, emphasizing the tender plea of the lyrics: “I bless the day I found you / I want my arms around you / And so I beg you: Let it be me.”
The song’s message of devotion and longing for a partner’s enduring presence resonated profoundly with Joey+Rory’s audience, especially as Joey Feek’s courageous battle with terminal cancer became public in the years following the album’s release. While “Let It Be Me” was recorded before her diagnosis, its lyrics took on an even more poignant and bittersweet meaning for fans who witnessed the couple’s unwavering love and faith in the face of immense adversity. The song became a symbol of their real-life commitment, transforming a classic love song into a powerful testament of their bond.
Achievements:
While “Let It Be Me” by Joey+Rory did not achieve major chart success as a standalone single, its significance and achievements are tied to its role within their celebrated discography and its emotional impact:
- Contribution to a Critically Acclaimed Album: “Let It Be Me” is a key track on Country Classics: A Tapestry of Our Musical Heritage. This album was well-received by critics and fans alike for its respectful and authentic interpretations of classic country songs. It debuted at No. 44 on the Top Country Albums chart, showcasing the duo’s continued presence in the country music landscape.
- Showcasing Vocal Harmony: The song is an excellent example of Joey+Rory’s exceptional vocal harmonies, which were a hallmark of their sound. Their ability to blend their voices seamlessly added depth and emotion to the classic melody, making their rendition unique and memorable.
- Emotional Resonance: For many fans, Joey+Rory’s version of “Let It Be Me” holds deep emotional significance, particularly in light of Joey Feek’s later illness and the couple’s public display of faith and love. The song became a poignant reflection of their real-life journey, resonating with listeners on a deeply personal level.
- Honoring Musical Heritage: The album on which “Let It Be Me” appears served as a tribute to the rich history of country music. By covering classics like this, Joey+Rory helped to introduce these timeless songs to a new generation of listeners, ensuring their continued appreciation.
- Part of a Grammy-Winning Legacy: While Country Classics itself wasn’t a Grammy winner, Joey+Rory’s subsequent album, Hymns That Are Important to Us (released in 2016), won the Grammy Award for Best Roots Gospel Album in 2017. Their version of “Let It Be Me” is part of the broader musical journey that led to this significant industry recognition, highlighting their consistent quality and heartfelt approach to music.
- Enduring Fan Favorite: Despite not being a chart-topping single, “Let It Be Me” remains a beloved song among Joey+Rory’s fanbase, frequently highlighted in discussions about their most touching performances and their enduring musical legacy.