Wynonna Judd – “I Can Only Imagine ” 2001

About the song

Wynonna Judd’s powerful rendition of “I Can Only Imagine.” While this song is unequivocally a signature piece for the Christian rock band MercyMe, having been written by their frontman Bart Millard and released in 2001, Wynonna’s live performances and subsequent recordings of it have given the track a poignant and deeply personal new life within the country and gospel music spheres. For many fans, especially those familiar with Wynonna’s journey, her interpretation carries a profound weight and sincerity that is uniquely her own.

MercyMe’s original “I Can Only Imagine” emerged from Bart Millard’s reflections on his father’s passing, grappling with the profound questions of what it would be like to stand before God in Heaven. It quickly became a crossover hit, resonating with a vast audience for its simple yet profound theological contemplation. Wynonna Judd, with her own deeply spiritual journey and, more recently, navigating immense personal loss including the passing of her mother, Naomi Judd, has found a resonant connection with the song’s themes.

Wynonna’s vocal performance on “I Can Only Imagine” is a masterclass in conveying raw emotion and profound faith. Her voice, a powerhouse with a distinctive soulful timbre and incredible range, imbues the lyrics with a seasoned depth that comes from a lifetime of experience, joy, and sorrow. When Wynonna sings lines like “I can only imagine what it will be like / When I walk by Your side,” you feel the earnestness of her longing and her deep spiritual connection. She doesn’t just sing the words; she embodies the hope, the wonder, and the peace inherent in the song’s message. Her delivery often gains a particular strength and emotional intensity in live settings, making each performance a truly moving experience.

The musical arrangement in Wynonna’s performances of “I Can Only Imagine” often maintains the piano-driven simplicity of the original but may incorporate elements more common to country and gospel music, perhaps with more prominent steel guitar or a slightly different rhythmic feel depending on the specific performance. The focus, however, always remains on her incredible vocal delivery, which is powerful enough to carry the song on its own. The production, whether in a live recording or a studio version, typically allows her voice to shine, making the spiritual message the undeniable centerpiece.

“I Can Only Imagine” as interpreted by Wynonna Judd resonates deeply because it connects with listeners on a profoundly human and spiritual level. Her personal journey, often shared openly with her audience, adds layers of meaning to the song, making it a powerful anthem of faith, hope, and the anticipation of reunion beyond this life. It stands as a testament to the song’s universal appeal and Wynonna’s extraordinary ability to take a beloved piece and make it entirely her own, touching hearts with her powerful voice and unwavering conviction.

Video

Lyrics

I can only imagine what it will be like
When I walk by your side
I can only imagine what my eyes will see
When your face is before me
I can only imagine

Surrounded by your glory, what will my heart feel
Will I dance for you, Jesus, or in awe of you be still
Will I stand in your presence or to my knees will I fall
Will I sing Hallelujah, will I be able to speak at all
I can only imagine, I can only imagine

I can only imagine when that day comes
And I find myself standing in the sun
I can only imagine when all I will do
Is forever, forever worship you
I can only imagine, yeah, I can only imagine

Surrounded by your glory, what will my heart feel
Will I dance for you, Jesus, or in awe of you be still
Will I stand in your presence or to my knees will I fall
Will I sing Hallelujah, will I be able to speak at all
I can only imagine, yes, I can only imagine

Surrounded by your glory, what will my heart feel
Will I dance for you, Jesus, or in awe of you be still
Will I stand in your presence or to my knees will I fall
Will I sing Hallelujah, will I be able to speak at all
I can only imagine, I can only imagine

I can only imagine, yes, I can only imagine
I can only imagine, yes, I can only imagine

I can only imagine when all I can do
Is forever, forever worship you
I can only imagine