“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Have you ever heard a song that tells a story so vividly, it feels like you’re right there, living it? “Three Wooden Crosses” by Randy Travis is one such song. This poignant ballad paints a picture of faith, fate, and redemption, resonating deeply with listeners. I remember the first time I heard it on a road trip with my family; the silence that followed its final note was filled with the weight of its powerful message.
About The Composition
- Title: Three Wooden Crosses
- Composer: Kim Williams and Doug Johnson
- Premiere Date: Released in November 2002
- Album: Rise and Shine
- Genre: Country, Christian
Background
“Three Wooden Crosses” was written by Kim Williams and Doug Johnson, inspired by a true story and the timeless themes of life, death, and divine intervention. The song was released in 2002 as part of Randy Travis’s album “Rise and Shine,” marking a significant moment in his career as it crossed over from country to Christian music charts. The piece was received with acclaim, not only for its storytelling but for its spiritual depth, winning the 2003 CMA Award for Song of the Year.
Musical Style
The musical style of “Three Wooden Crosses” is a blend of country and Christian music, characterized by its heartfelt lyrics and traditional country instrumentation. The song’s structure is straightforward, allowing the narrative to take center stage. Acoustic guitars and gentle percussion accompany Travis’s deep, soulful voice, creating an intimate and reflective atmosphere. The simplicity of the arrangement highlights the song’s emotional gravity.
Lyrics
The lyrics of “Three Wooden Crosses” tell the story of four individuals – a farmer, a teacher, a preacher, and a hooker – who are involved in a tragic bus accident. The narrative reveals themes of redemption and the mysterious ways of divine providence, particularly through the character of the hooker who survives and carries forward the preacher’s message. The chorus, with its reference to the three wooden crosses by the roadside, symbolizes the unforeseen paths and the grace found in unexpected places.
Performance History
Since its release, “Three Wooden Crosses” has been performed numerous times, both by Randy Travis and other artists who have been moved by its message. Notably, Travis’s live performances often leave audiences in a reflective silence, touched by the song’s narrative and its implications. Its success on the charts and its enduring popularity in live performances underscore its significance in both country and Christian music spheres.
Cultural Impact
“Three Wooden Crosses” has left an indelible mark on both music and culture. Its story has been used in sermons, memorials, and other contexts where its themes resonate. The song’s crossover appeal brought Randy Travis new recognition and introduced broader audiences to the power of narrative-driven country music. Its impact extends beyond just a hit single, influencing other artists in the genre to explore deeper, more meaningful storytelling in their music.
Legacy
The legacy of “Three Wooden Crosses” is seen in its continued relevance and the way it touches listeners with its message of hope and redemption. It stands as a testament to the power of music to convey profound truths and connect with people on a spiritual level. Randy Travis’s performance, marked by authenticity and emotion, ensures that this song remains a timeless piece in his repertoire and in the broader landscape of country and Christian music.
Conclusion
Reflecting on “Three Wooden Crosses,” I am reminded of the profound impact a well-told story can have. It encourages us to look beyond the surface of our lives and recognize the unseen hands at work. For anyone who hasn’t experienced this song yet, I highly recommend listening to Randy Travis’s rendition. It’s a journey worth taking, and each listen offers something new to reflect upon. Whether you find solace in its message or are simply captivated by its storytelling, “Three Wooden Crosses” is a song that stays with you long after the final note.
Video
Lyrics
A farmer and a teacher, a hooker and a preacher
Ridin’ on a midnight bus bound for Mexico
One’s headed for vacation, one for higher education
And two of them were searchin’ for lost souls
That driver never ever saw the stop sign
And eighteen wheelers can’t stop on a dime
There are three wooden crosses on the right side of the highway
Why there’s not four of them, Heaven only knows
I guess it’s not what you take when you leave this world behind you
It’s what you leave behind you when you go
That farmer left a harvest, a home and eighty acres
The faith and love for growin’ things in his young son’s heart
And that teacher left her wisdom in the minds of lots of children
Did her best to give ’em all a better start
And that preacher whispered, “Can’t you see the Promised Land?”
As he laid his blood-stained bible in that hooker’s hand
There are three wooden crosses on the right side of the highway
Why there’s not four of them, Heaven only knows
I guess it’s not what you take when you leave this world behind you
It’s what you leave behind you when you go
That’s the story that our preacher told last Sunday
As he held that blood-stained bible up
For all of us to see
He said “Bless the farmer, and the teacher, and the preacher
Who gave this Bible to my mama
Who read it to me”
There are three wooden crosses on the right side of the highway
Why there’s not four of them, now I guess we know
It’s not what you take when you leave this world behind you
It’s what you leave behind you when you go
There are three wooden crosses on the right side of the highway