Music

In the ethereal embrace of Skellefteå's Sara Kulturhus, a spellbinding symphony unfolded by Dad Harmony as they sang woven chords of classic rock in a melodic live performance you don't want to miss!

Enter the stage, five fathers, united both by blood and an unwavering passion for music. They are the embodiment of harmony, both in voice and in life. 

With a flourish of anticipation, the air trembles with the opening strains of "Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me," each note a gentle caress upon the soul. As the melody unfurls like a tapestry of dreams, the audience is transported, enraptured by the raw emotion that emanates from every chord.

Yet, just as swiftly as the sun sets, the mood shifts, and a wave of electrifying energy permeates the hall. The unmistakable chords of "Bohemian Rhapsody" reverberate through the air, igniting a collective fervor that knows no bounds. Dad Harmony weaves through Freddie Mercury's opus with finesse and reverence, paying homage to a timeless classic while infusing it with their own unique flair.

But the journey doesn't end there! Like ascending the steps to the gates of Heaven, the haunting melody of "Stairway to Heaven" beckons, guiding listeners on a celestial odyssey of sound and spirit. Each note is a step closer to transcendence, each harmony a testament to the boundless depths of human emotion.

Yet amidst these iconic anthems' grandeur lies a tender intimacy, a quiet revelation of love's enduring power. "Until I Found You" emerges like a whisper in the night, a heartfelt confession set to music, baring souls and stirring hearts.

And then, like a sudden burst of sunlight piercing through the clouds, the tempo shifts once more. "Made You Look" erupts with infectious energy, a jubilant celebration of life, love, and the unyielding spirit of fatherhood.

As the evening draws to a close, there is only one journey left. With voices raised in unison, Dad Harmony leads the audience down the familiar roads of home, serenading them with the timeless ballad of "Take Me Home, Country Roads." It's a poignant reminder of the bonds that tie us all, a testament to the enduring power of music to uplift, inspire, and unite.

In the hallowed halls of Sara Kulturhus, Dad Harmony has created more than just music. They have crafted an experience—a journey of the heart, mind, and soul—that will linger in the memories of all fortunate enough to bear witness. And as the final notes fade into the night, one thing is abundantly clear: the legacy of Dad Harmony will endure, a shining beacon of hope, love, and harmony in an ever-changing world.

As the curtain falls on this enchanting performance, let us pause for a moment of gratitude and thank God for the gift of music. There are many blessings in the symphony of life, but none more precious than the love of family and the power of music. So, let us offer our heartfelt thanks to the divine orchestrator above for blessing us with the fathers of Dad Harmony and their transcendent melodies. Through their voices, we glimpse the beauty of creation and the boundless depths of love. May their music continue to inspire, uplift, and unite us all as we journey together through the harmonies of life. Amen.

"Sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord, all the earth. Sing to the Lord, praise his name; proclaim his salvation day after day." - Psalm 96:1-2

Country music icon Travis Tritt left audiences spellbound with his recent rendition of the gospel classic "When God Dips His Love In My Heart.” As he performed live at the Loveless Café in Nashville, Tennessee, Travis’ powerful vocals and heartfelt delivery breathed new life into this timeless hymn.

“Well I said I wouldn't tell it to a livin' soul 

How He brought salvation and He made me whole 

But I found I couldn't hide such a love as Jesus did impart 

Well He made me laugh and He made me cry, set my sinful soul on fire”

The lyrics, penned with profound simplicity, resonate with the depth of spiritual experience. "When God dips His pen of love in my heart, and He writes my soul a message He wants me to know," Travis’ sings, capturing the essence of divine communication and personal revelation. Each verse unfolds like a sacred testimony, revealing the transformative power of faith and redemption.

Travis’ performance embodies raw emotion and unwavering conviction as he shares the story of salvation and renewal. With every note, he invites listeners on a journey of self-discovery and spiritual awakening. The song's refrain, "When God dips His love in my heart," serves as a poignant reminder of the boundless compassion and grace available to all who seek it.

Accompanied by soul-stirring instrumentation, Travis’ rendition transcends the boundaries of genre, touching hearts and stirring souls across diverse audiences. His passionate delivery infuses the song with a sense of urgency and sincerity, drawing listeners into a sacred space where faith and music converge.

As the performance unfolds, Travis’ vocal prowess and heartfelt interpretation elevate the song to new heights, evoking a profound sense of reverence and awe. With each verse, he navigates the emotional depths of the human experience, offering solace and hope to all who listen.

Travis Tritt's rendition of "When God Dips His Love In My Heart" stands as a testament to the enduring power of music to inspire, uplift, and heal. In a world often fraught with uncertainty and turmoil, his performance serves as a beacon of light, illuminating the path toward spiritual fulfillment and divine love.

John 3:16: "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."

Nathan Cheste performed the song “Fooled Around And Fell In Love” in the Knockout rounds on The Voice, and it was such a treat!

In a world often filled with chaos and noise, some moments profoundly transcend the ordinary and touch our hearts. One such divine moment occurred recently on the beloved TV show, The Voice, when Nathan Chester nailed the beloved classic, “Fooled Around And Fell In Love.” 

Nathan graced us with his electrifying performance, dressed in the 70s style to add to his charisma. From the moment Nathan stepped onto the stage, an undeniable energy emanated from him. His presence alone was captivating, but his voice truly stole the show. With each note he sang, it was as if time stood still, and all that mattered was the raw emotion pouring out of him.

As he delved into the soulful lyrics of "Fooled Around and Fell in Love," Nathan took us on a journey of love and longing. His polished voice soared effortlessly, hitting every high note with precision and grace. But it wasn't just his vocal prowess that left us in awe. It was the depth of feeling behind every word he sang.

In a world where superficiality often reigns supreme, Nathan's performance was a refreshing reminder of the power of authenticity. There was no pretense, just a man baring his soul for the world to see. It was as if he lifted his voice in gratitude to God, thanking the good Lord for the gift of love and music.

But perhaps what truly set Nathan's performance apart was his infectious energy and undeniable charisma. As he swayed and sang across the stage, flashing his signature smile, it was impossible not to be swept away by his charm. He wasn't just singing; he was performing, captivating the audience with every note!

In minutes, Nathan Chester went from being a contestant on The Voice to a star in his own right. His performance of "Fooled Around and Fell in Love" will go down as one of the most memorable moments in the show's storied history. But more than that, it will serve as a reminder of the power of music to touch our souls and unite us in shared emotion, a gift from the Lord.

So here's to Nathan Chester, a true talent whose voice has the power to move mountains and whose spirit lights up the darkest of rooms. May his journey on The Voice be just the beginning of a long and illustrious career filled with success, love, and endless music, all blessings a gracious and loving Creator bestowed upon him. And may we all be fortunate enough to witness his divine magic time and time again.

James 1:17 “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows."

Christian musicians Ben Fuller and Megan Danielle have teamed up for a stunning and powerful duet, “If I Got Jesus.”

The world is a lost and dying place full of hurting and struggling people who are crying out for some sign that things will get better. They are looking for hope and love, someone to show that they care about them. 

Thankfully for us and everyone else in the world, there is one who can do all that and more. Jesus Christ paid the price, willingly going to the cross. The repercussions of His brutal and agonizing death and resurrection give hope to a tired, lost and weary world. 

Christ freely offers His love and forgiveness to all who call upon His name. It’s a gift that transforms hearts and lives. Without Jesus Christ, none of us would have a chance. We would all be lost, still living in our sin and shame. 

In a clip posted on social media, Ben and Megan, a runner-up on American Idol, sing “If I Got Jesus.” It’s a beautifully written song about the difference Christ has made in their life and how if they lost everything but still had Him, they’d have all they need.

“There’s a hope that’s living deep inside

A joy that I could never hide

And a safe place to fall

If I’ve got Jesus, I’ve got it all”

Both musicians turn in charming and stellar vocal performances as they sing about the wonderful and life-changing work of Jesus Christ. 

“If I Got Jesus” is a powerful song that will likely make you consider whether you have that same attitude. What would happen, and how would we react if, like Job, everything was taken away? Would we respond like Job did? It’s certainly something to think about.

Galatians 2:20 “I have been put to death on the cross with Christ; still I am living; no longer I, but Christ is living in me; and that life which I now and living in the flesh I am living by faith, the faith of the Son of God, who in love for me, gave himself up for me.”

Kelly Clarkson turned in an impressive and awe-inspiring cover performance of “Mind Your Own Business,” a tune from Hank Williams.

Music is near and dear to many people. Everyone has their favorite genre, band, singer and song. Musical tastes are personal, and when someone criticizes or says something that could be interpreted as unfavorable about a song or a band that we like, we tend to take that personally. 

Every genre of music has avid and passionate fans. However, country music has arguably the most committed, passionate and sincere supporters. As such, there are some country music artists about whom you should not say a negative word unless you want to bring on the wrath of country music fans. Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Merle Haggard and Loretta Lynn are just some of those musicians who are off-limits in terms of criticism. 

Hank Williams, a legendary country musician, is one of those performers who would qualify for that exclusive category. That also means that when trying to cover a song by one of those artists, the person doing it better bring their best effort or they will likely hear about it. 

In a clip posted on YouTube, the original American Idol, Kelly Clarkson, took a stab at a Hank Williams song: “Mind Your Own Business.” 

“Why don’t you mind your business?

Mind your own business

‘Cause if you mind your business, then you won’t mindin’ mine”

She absolutely knocked it out of the park! Her voice and the musical accompaniment infuse the lyrics with energy and enthusiasm. You could easily listen to her version repeatedly without getting tired of it. 

Kelly is such a talented musician that she can sing tunes that others simply cannot or should not attempt. She also makes it appear effortless, seeming never to strain or try too hard to hit some of those higher notes. 

Ephesians 5:19 “Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;”

Longtime Hollywood actor Dennis Quaid delivered a mesmerizing cover of the beloved hymn "I’ll Fly Away.”

No one is destined to remain on Earth forever. Everyone’s time on this planet is limited. Sin was unleashed on the world with a bite of the fruit back in the Garden of Eden, and now all will face death at one time or another. It’s a sad and ironic part of life.  

However, the death of one’s physical body is most certainly not the end. After one’s time on Earth has expired, there are two destinations available, and we have a decision to make as to which place we go. Heaven has been set aside for those who have confessed their sins, accepted Christ into their hearts and lives, and turned away from their old ways, becoming new creatures in Christ.

While death is and likely always will be one of people’s greatest fears, it doesn’t have to be that way. There is much uncertainty surrounding death. However, as actor Dennis Quaid sings in a clip posted on YouTube, that does not have to be the case. 

Dennis performs an upbeat and energetic cover of the timeless and beloved tune “I’ll Fly Away.” It’s a song about knowing death is coming but looking at it joyfully because they know where they are headed once their life on Earth is over and done.

“I’ll fly away, oh glory

I will fly away in the morning

When I die, hallelujah by and by

I will fly away”

Everyone feels like they have plenty of time on Earth left. We may have decades or a few days – no one can be entirely sure how long their lives will last. No one is promised tomorrow. Why put accepting Christ and welcoming Him into your heart and life off? 

Romans 6:23 “For the reward of sin is death; but what God freely gives is eternal life in Jesus Christ our Lord.”

This is a heartwarming reminder to love people well. Band with members on the autism spectrum wows on The Kelly Clarkson Show. 

Kelly so kindly welcomes this sweet group of young people who are known as the ASD Band. The lead singer is very sweet and tells Kelly that she was her biggest inspiration growing up and that she sang “Breakaway” for her 3rd-grade talent show. 

As the band is being introduced, each band member has a fun personality. The band director plays the bass for them. The lead singer shares that he helps them elevate the songs. Kelly says that she has a band director, too. 

The lead singer shares that being on the spectrum helps her become a stronger musician. Jackson the drummer says that playing drums helps to focus his brain. It is “stimming” for him. The band director shares how renewing it has been to be in this band. They do not argue. They understand each other and work together as a team. 

Their new album is called “Almost Flawless.” The ASD Band writes their own songs. After the interview, the ASD Band performed one of their songs called “Fireflies.” The lyrics say, “We’re different but not less.” It is an encouraging message to anyone on the spectrum or living around others on the spectrum in their families or communities. 

We, as the body of Christ, are called to love all people in the name of Jesus. This includes those on the Autism Spectrum. This interview and song remind us that all people are made in the image of God. We are all in a broken world and everyone has different challenges and giftings. No matter what we face, or what others around us face, we can invite the gospel of Jesus into our day to day. We can love people with autism.

“So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.” Genesis 1:27

This YouTube video is a beautiful performance of ‘I Feel My Savior’s Love!’ The performance is by the group GENTRI and features singer Ellie Barry. 

The four of them create a magical harmony singing such beautiful words about the love of Jesus and our response to him. 

These lyrics talk about God’s love for us and how we should give our life to him. It's such an important reminder in today’s world that we need to be focused on God and remember the love he has for us. 

“He knows I will follow him,

Give all my life to him.

I feel my Savior’s love,

The love he freely gives me.”

GENTRI is short for “The Gentlemen Trio” and was established in 2014. The group is made up of three tenors, Brad Robins, Casey Elliot, and Bradley Quinn Lever. Stephen Nelson is the 4th member who is the composer, arranger, and producer of the group.

They have released four EPs and three full-length albums. They have performed all over the United States and across the globe. 

Joining them in this performance is 19-year-old singer Ellie Barry. Who brings a lovely harmony to the three tenors. 

Many in the comments are enjoying this collaboration. One commenter says, “I just blundered into this and OH MY GOSH. This song could not be done any better. Such harmonies. It is a real GIFT from you to all of us who love the Lord. THANK YOU,” and another, “This song is heavenly.  I could listen to this a million times and not tire of it.  Beautiful.  Thank you GENTRI and Ellie Barry.  God bless you forever and meet all your needs. <3” 

“And we have known and believed the love that God has to us. God is love; and he that dwells in love dwells in God, and God in him.” - 1 John 4:16 

The Woodgies bring sister harmonies to new heights with their rendition of “Dreams” by The Cranberries. Seated and singing from a church pew, the beauties sound like angels! 

Hannah Leah and Meghan Woodger, the duo known as The Woodgies, were born in Ireland and have been raised in Geneva, Switzerland. After posting their first single, “Holding Hands,” on YouTube in 2021, the pair was noticed and signed by a record label within days! They released their first album on October 1, 2021, under the Swiss label Escudero Records. In addition, the sisters were winners of the Montreux Jazz Festival’s Swiss Rising Talent contest. They have “exploded” onto the Swiss music scene!  

Regularly performing in Switzerland, France, and in the pubs of Ireland, the Pop-Folk duo’s music and voices have been described as: enchanting and bewitching, melodic and melancholic, hopeful, delicate, soothing, and authentic. That’s high praise for two sisters who entered the music business just three years ago. Indeed, their version of “Dreams” encompasses a bit of each. 

Hashtagged “acoustic covers” and “natural reverb,” their voices bounce and blend beautifully inside the walls of the stained-glass-windowed church. Not only are they performing without any electronic instruments (hence, acoustic), but they are also singing a cappella. 

Hannah Leah and Meghan note on their Instagram post that the Irish rock band, the Cranberries is one of their favorite bands. “Dreams,” first released in September of 1992, was the debut single of the band. 

Here are four lines from the first chorus of the hit song:

Because it came from you

Then I open up and see

The person falling here is me

A different way to be

The Woodgies find inspiration from Simon & Garfunkel, First Aid Kit, and Tom Rosenthal. Their website notes that the music “welcomes listeners into a journey through life’s trials and tribulations as seen through a young person’s eyes.”

The Woodgies are the ones to watch. Abundantly blessed with heavenly voices, Hannah Leah and Meghan are surely blessing their fans with their songs!   

“Sing to the Lord, praise his name; proclaim his salvation day after day.” Psalms 96:2

Reba McEntire has turned in a powerful rendition of one of the most beloved hymns of all time, “Because He Lives.”

Life can be overwhelming and unbearable at times. Situations and circumstances can push us to our very limits, leaving us wondering whether we have the strength and capacity to continue. Moments in life will pull, test and stretch our faith. 

Some instances may even cause doubts or questions to pop up in our minds. What is God doing? Where is God? What is His plan in all of this? Those are just some of the questions people have and will ask themselves whenever they encounter one of life’s valleys.

However, no matter what happens, we can rest assured that God is still in control and working. The Bible mentions that, in all situations, God works for the good of those who love Him. His Word also points out that He will never leave or forsake us, no matter what we face or are going through.

In a clip posted on social media, Reba sings a tune that reminds us that no matter what we may encounter in this life, we cannot give in or give up. It’s always worth going and living simply because He lives and is in control, and because of that fact, we can face tomorrow.

“Because He lives, I can face tomorrow

Because He lives, my fears are gone

Because I know He holds the future

And life is worth the living”

What a beautifully written chorus, masterfully performed by “The Queen of Country Music.” 

Those lyrics are essentially promises to anyone and everyone who may be enduring a trial or a hardship. God has not left, even though it may sometimes feel like it. And because He is still alive, working and on the throne, we can make it with Him right by our side.

2 Thessalonians 3:3 “But the Lord is faithful, who will establish you, and keep you from evil.”

Check out this moving rendition of ‘In The Garden’ performed by The Oak Ridge Boys.

“I come to the garden alone while the dew is still on the roses

And the voice I hear, falling on my ear, the Son of God discloses

And He walks with me, and He talks with me, and He tells me I am His own

And the joy we share as we tarry there, none other has ever known”

What a great performance of this beloved hymn! The voices of The Oak Ridge Boys blend so well together, and it is so lovely to listen to them sing.

The Oak Ridge Boys are made up of lead singer Duane Allen, bass singer Richard Sterban, tenor Joe Bonsall, and baritone William Lee Golden. The four-part harmonies and upbeat songs of The Oak Ridge Boys have spawned dozens of country hits and earned them Grammy, Dove, CMA, and ACM awards. The group has scored twelve gold, three platinum, and one double platinum album—plus one double platinum single. They have also had more than a dozen national Number One singles and over 30 Top Ten hits.

“Beautiful song, reminds me that we're never alone with Jesus by our side,” comments one person on YouTube after watching The Oak Ridge boys sing ‘In The Garden.’

“I'm glad the Oak Ridge Boys are doing both country music and gospel music. The best of both worlds!” another person writes online.

The Oak Ridge Boys are among many other talented singers who have recorded ‘In The Garden.’ Some of those artists include Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, Randy Travis, Ella Fitzgerald, Loretta Lynn, and Rosemary Clooney.

This popular hymn was written by C. Austin Miles, and it is virtually impossible to pick up a standard hymnal and find this song omitted. We hope that you enjoyed listening to this rendition of ‘In The Garden’ by The Oak Ridge Boys today!

Country music singer Lainey Wilson nailed her cover performance of the late Toby Keith’s hit “How Do You Like Me Now?!”

Unfortunately, death is a very real and sad part of life. It already has or will impact everyone’s life in one way or another. That’s why it is important to cherish and make the most of every moment God has given you on Earth. Everyone thinks they have plenty of time, but the fact of the matter is that the amount is likely much less than we’d like to know. 

Spending as much time as possible with loved ones should always be a priority. They could be here one minute and gone the next. Tell them you love and appreciate them often. No one will get tired of hearing someone saying, “I love you.”

In a clip posted on Facebook, singer Lainey Wilson covered Toby Keith’s classic “How Do You Like Me Now?!” during a performance at the CMT Music Awards. She absolutely nailed the song!

“How do you like me now?

How do you like me now?

Now that I’m on my way

Do you still think I’m crazy standing here today?”

The crowd was into her performance from the moment she opened her mouth and began belting out the lyrics. The camera caught many people up on their feet dancing and singing along with Lainey. They certainly enjoyed the musical performance that was happening right in front of them. 

The audience responded to Lainey’s spirited performance with a deafening round of applause. 

Before the clip ends, Lainey says, “We love you, Toby.”

Of course, her performance was a tribute to the late singer. Toby passed away in early February at the age of 62 following a battle with stomach cancer. 

Colossians 3:16 “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”

The Vaeter siblings deliver a breathtaking ‘Hallejuh’ performance, and you don’t want to miss it. 

In a world yearning for solace and connection, the enchanting harmonies of Daylon, Daura, and Devon Veater, known collectively as Life in 3D, resonate like a beacon of hope. With their latest breathtaking cover of "Hallelujah," these siblings once again weave a tapestry of beauty and emotion that transcends the ordinary and touches the soul.

From the first haunting notes to the triumphant crescendo, their rendition of Leonard Cohen's timeless classic is nothing short of mesmerizing. Each voice blends seamlessly with the others, creating a symphony of sound that transports listeners to a realm of sublime tranquility of God’s arms. It's as if heaven itself has opened its gates, and the angels themselves are lending their voices to proclaim the glory of creation.

But it's not just their impeccable vocal prowess that captivates audiences—it's the depth of emotion infused into every lyric, every note. With each heartfelt refrain, they channel a raw authenticity that speaks to the human experience in all its joys and sorrows. Their rendition of "Hallelujah" becomes more than just a song; it becomes a prayer, a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of faith to carry us through life's darkest moments.

As the music swells and soars, it's impossible not to be moved by the sheer magnitude of their talent and the sincerity of their performance. In their voices, we hear echoes of grace and redemption, reminders that even in our brokenness, there is beauty to be found. It's a reminder that no matter how lost or alone we may feel, there is always hope on the horizon, a light that shines brighter than any darkness.

In the end, Life in 3D's rendition of "Hallelujah" isn't just a song—it's a testament to the power of music to uplift, inspire, and unite us in our shared humanity. It's a reminder that even in our most vulnerable moments, we are never truly alone, for there is always music to guide us home.

Psalm 98:4-6 "Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth, burst into jubilant song with music; make music to the Lord with the harp, with the harp and the sound of singing, with trumpets and the blast of the ram’s horn—shout for joy before the Lord, the King."

Listen to this stunning live performance of ‘The Dutchman’ from Celtic Thunder and be in awe of the beautiful vocals and lyrics.

“The Dutchman's not the kind of man who keeps his thumb jammed in the dam

That holds his dreams in, but that's a secret that only Margaret knows.

When Amsterdam is golden in the summer, Margaret brings him breakfast,

She believes him. He thinks the tulips bloom beneath the snow.”

‘The Dutchman’ was written by Michael Peter Smith in 1968 and has become a beloved folk song over the years. The song is about an elderly couple living in Amsterdam, with Margaret being the title character. The unnamed Dutchman is senile, and Margaret cares for him with sadness over what has happened to him over the years. When Margaret is away, the Dutchman wanders and imagines. He is only grounded when his dear wife returns. The song’s overall story is one of unconditional and undying love. 

In the music video, Celtic Thunder is performing ‘The Dutchman’ live from Ontario, Canada. And they did a beautiful job putting their own twist on the song.

Celtic Thunder is an Irish singing group that first came together in 2007. They are known for their eclectic, theatrical-style shows, and the Celtic Thunder Band backs the group on their concert tours. Their live shows are known for the use of dramatic set pieces, visual effects, and highly choreographed staging.

We hope you enjoyed this performance of ‘The Dutchman’ from Celtic Thunder today and the music was able to bring a smile to your face.

Proverbs 3:3-4 Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man.

The supremely talented and gifted Kelly Clarkson mesmerized with a breathtaking cover of a timeless and beloved tune, “Over the Rainbow.”

Many people want to be singers, playing to thousands of adoring fans every night. Just look at all the people who try out for shows like American Idol, America’s Got Talent and The Voice. Everyone wants to believe they have what it takes to succeed in a highly competitive field like entertainment.

However, sadly, that’s not the case at all. While many people may and do try out for those shows, the judges are the ones who have to crush those dreams as they gently let them down, telling them thanks but no thanks. 

Kelly Clarkson was one of those people who tried out for those programs and most certainly has what it takes. She is the original American Idol. Since winning the first season of the popular singing competition show, she has become a household name due to her stunning voice. She has the ability and range to hit notes most other singers cannot. 

In a clip posted on YouTube, Kelly turned in a stunning performance of “Over the Rainbow.” It’s a stripped-down, jazzy version. The focus is solely on Kelly’s vocal performance, as it should be. 

“Someday, I’ll wish upon a star

Wake up where the clouds are far behind me

Where trouble melts like lemon drops

High above the chimney tops, that’s where”

Because of her voice, Kelly can nail classic, beloved songs that others would not even think of trying. There is likely little that Kelly cannot sing or cover and make sound as good as and even better than the original. 

Her version of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” hits all the right notes, making it worth listening to repeatedly. 

Colossians 3:16 “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”

Legendary actress and singer Judy Garland turns in a superb performance of the timeless tune “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.”

Since the invention of music, musicians have likely been covering and playing one another’s tunes. This time-honored tradition has been practiced for years and will likely continue well into the future. It’s a way to honor and pay respect to someone else and their work.

Also, who doesn’t want to hear different interpretations of classic songs? How would The Beatles’ “I Wanna Hold Your Hand” sound if Dolly Parton, Pentatonix, or some other artist or group performed it? I’m sure they would add something to it to make it their own and leave their mark. But, of course, we all know that “I Wanna Hold Your Hand” will forever and always be a Beatles tune.

While everyone loves covers of classic songs every now and then, the original version is best, most of the time. Paul Simon’s and Art Garfunkel’s “Sound of Silence” has been covered by nearly every artist and band in existence, but the original is still far and away the superior version.

Another song that gets the cover treatment a lot is “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” the song Judy Garland performed in “The Wizard of Oz,” the beloved 1939 film. Sure, some of the covers of that lovely song over the years are enjoyable, but Judy’s version remains number one. No one will ever top it. 

In a clip posted on social media, Judy is captured on camera beautifully singing those memorable and iconic lyrics. 

“Somewhere I’ll wish upon a star

And wake up where the clouds are far behind me

Where trouble melts like lemon drops

Away above the chimney tops, that’s where you’ll find me”

Kelly Clarkson, Willie Nelson, Ariana Grande and many others have covered the iconic song, but Judy Garland’s original is simply unmatched, and will forever remain that way. 

Ephesians 5:19 “Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;”

A young woman turned in a spectacular performance, nailing her cover of Tina Turner’s “Simply the Best” on American Idol.

The latest season of American Idol is moving along quickly, swiftly approaching its inevitable conclusion. The judges – Lionel Richie, Katy Perry and Luke Bryan – have whittled the group of aspiring singers down, sending many of them home after they failed to meet and exceed their expectations.

The program has reached the portion of the season where the American public has a say in who stays and goes home. So now, not only are the participants performing for the three judges, but they must also win the hearts and votes of people watching at home. 

From the thousands who tried out to the hundreds who made it onto the show, only 24 singers remain. Now, the contestants are in Hawaii, at Disney’s Aulani resort, where they all take the stage and sing in front of a live audience on the beach.

One of the people who has made it through the series of cuts is Nya. In a clip posted on YouTube, the young woman takes the stage and dazzles the audience and those watching at home with a beautiful rendition of a timeless classic from the late Tina Turner, “Simply the Best.”

As Nya sings two of the song’s verses, it’s clear that everyone loves what they hear from the young woman. They shout, cheer and clap, showing her their approval and appreciation. However, when she reaches the song’s memorable chorus, the audience really lets her hear it.

“You’re simply the best

Better than all the rest

Better than anyone

Anyone I’ve ever met”

Nya is an incredibly talented young singer who will be tough to beat. It will be interesting to see how far her talented and unique-sounding voice will take her in the competition.

Colossians 3:16 “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”

American Idol contestant Kennedy Reid’s stunning cover performance of the timeless classic “Fancy” had all three judges on their feet.

There are some songs and performers that only a few people would dare to cover. Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, Aretha Franklin, The Beatles, and Elvis Presley fall into that exclusive category. Their songs and sound are so iconic, memorable and beloved that everyone can instantly detect any error, slip-up or variation from the original. 

Another legendary performer who fits into that category is Reba McEntire. She has produced dozens of timeless tunes throughout her illustrious and successful career. She did not earn the nickname “The Queen of Country Music” for nothing. If you’re going to cover a Reba song, you better bring it because if not, you’re setting yourself up for failure.

In a clip posted on YouTube, Kennedy did just that and more with her cover of “Fancy.” She sounded absolutely terrific as she let loose and brought so much energy and enthusiasm to her performance. 

Her stunning performance brought all the judges – Lionel Richie, Katy Perry and Luke Bryan – to their feet. She owned the stage, giving the impression that she had been doing this for years.

“Well, I remember it all very well, lookin’ back

It was the summer I turned eighteen

We lived in a one-room, rundown shack

On the outskirts of New Orleans”

You don’t have to be a country music or a Reba fan to appreciate Kennedy’s performance. It was so energetic and enthusiastic. It was an entertaining and infectious performance in which Kennedy showed off her vocal skills and her ability to play to the audience and get them involved. 

It's safe to say that Kennedy will be tough to beat as the competition progresses. That performance is sure to resonate with people voting.

Colossians 3:16 “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”

Two supremely talented and musically gifted siblings, The Malpass Brothers, turned in a spirited and soul-stirring rendition of the beloved gospel tune “Keep Your Eyes on Jesus.”

The world is full of distractions. Due to the rushed and often frenetic nature of everyday life, it can be easy to become too focused on something happening or going on in one’s life. Yes, life, what happens in our lives, and those friends and loved ones in our lives are important. 

But it’s essential to keep things in perspective. What may seem like a monumental, life-changing matter at the time probably means very little in the long run. All people tend to do that, but what did that pressing issue really mean in the grand scheme? Not very much at all.

That’s why keeping our focus and eyes on Jesus Christ is paramount. The Bible says in Matthew that we are first to seek His kingdom and righteousness and all these things will be added unto you. 

Also, Christ will offer His guidance and care during life’s storms. He has always been faithful; there is no reason to believe He won’t be this time.

In a clip posted on YouTube, The Malpass Brothers sing a tune about remaining focused on Christ and avoiding the many distractions in life that can change our focus and attention.

“Keep your eyes on Jesus

When the tidal waves of trouble ‘round you roll

Keep your eyes on Jesus

He will calm the storms of life that cost your soul”

That is an absolutely beautifully written chorus about Christ’s love, protection, guidance and faithfulness. Those lyrics are also words that Christ’s followers can trust and live by, knowing that whatever may come up and happen, He is still in control and at work.

Colossians 3:16 “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”

One young singer’s outstanding cover performance of ‘How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You)” captivated the audience and the judges on American Idol. 

The current season of American Idol is quickly approaching its season finale, during which another winner will be crowned and named the next American Idol. However, before a winner can be named, the contestants must continue to battle it out, week after week, showing their musical talent to the judges, the audience and those watching at home.

The competition on American Idol is always fierce. All the contestants badly want to become the next winner. That’s why they must continually turn out one astounding vocal performance after another. One off performance or even a missed note could be the difference between winning the competition and going home.

In his latest appearance on the popular program, Roman Collins gave a stunning vocal performance, showing off his voice and ability to play to the crowd. He sang Marvin Gaye’s hit “How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You.)” 

It was a show-stopping performance. Roman started belting out the lyrics, and seconds into the performance, the judges were already impressed. Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan both audibly registered their approval of Roman’s rendition of the Marvin Gaye classic.

Luke said, “Wow,” several times before standing up and clapping to the tune's beat. Katy Perry and Luke even began dancing around as Roman provided the sweet, soulful sounds. 

Not long after Luke and Katy’s dance routine, Lionel and Jelly Roll are also on their feet as they enjoy Roman’s impeccable vocal performance on the outdoor American Idol stage. 

It’s unclear what critiques or complaints someone could have about Roman’s performance, which was marvelous! It should be listened to and watched multiple times.

Psalm 104:33 “I will make songs to the Lord all my life; I will make melody to my God while I have my being.”