About the song
“Believe” by Brooks & Dunn is a deeply moving and spiritually resonant country ballad that transcends typical genre conventions to explore themes of faith, loss, and the enduring power of belief in something beyond the tangible. Released in 2005, this track stands as one of the duo’s most poignant and thought-provoking songs, connecting with listeners on a profound emotional level through its heartfelt narrative and Ronnie Dunn’s powerful vocal delivery. It’s more than just a country song; it’s a modern-day parable, a reflection on the importance of faith and the comfort it can offer in the face of life’s mysteries.
The song’s lyrics tell the story of a young boy’s unwavering belief in Santa Claus, a belief that is nurtured and sustained by his grandmother. As the boy grows older and societal cynicism begins to creep in, his grandmother’s steadfast faith serves as a guiding light, ultimately leading him to understand that belief itself, in whatever form it takes, holds a significant power. The narrative subtly shifts, suggesting that the spirit of generosity and wonder embodied by Santa Claus is a manifestation of a deeper, more enduring faith. Ronnie Dunn’s vocal performance in “Believe” is nothing short of masterful. His rich baritone carries the weight of the story with a sincerity and conviction that is truly compelling. He navigates the emotional arc of the song with remarkable sensitivity, conveying both the innocent wonder of childhood belief and the mature understanding of its lasting significance. Kix Brooks’s harmonies add a layer of soulful depth, enhancing the song’s emotional resonance.
Brooks & Dunn’s musical style in “Believe” leans towards a more traditional country sound, characterized by a gentle piano melody, subtle acoustic guitar work, and a restrained rhythm section. The arrangement is deliberately uncluttered, allowing the focus to remain firmly on the powerful lyrics and Dunn’s emotive vocals. The production is warm and organic, creating an atmosphere of quiet reflection and heartfelt sincerity. The simplicity of the instrumentation underscores the profound message of the song.
The enduring appeal of “Believe” lies in its universal exploration of faith and the importance of holding onto something beyond the material world. It speaks to the human need for wonder, hope, and a sense of something larger than ourselves. The song’s poignant narrative and Dunn’s powerful delivery have made it a beloved and enduring ballad for listeners seeking comfort and inspiration.
“Believe” is more than just a country song; it’s a timeless reflection on the enduring power of faith, a testament to Brooks & Dunn’s ability to craft songs that are both commercially successful and deeply meaningful. Its heartfelt message and powerful delivery continue to resonate with audiences who appreciate music that explores the deeper aspects of the human experience.
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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)
